Applications open for role of part-time Creative Director

Closing date: 12 midday 27th October 2025

Introduction

We are looking for a part time Creative Director to work with the Chair, Trustees, artistic leads, volunteers, an invited Artistic Advisory Team, and trusted collaborators to cultivate and articulate Wainsgate’s creative vision, ensuring our programme is bold, distinctive, financially viable, rooted in our heritage, and alive to the many communities we serve.

The Creative Director will also work with the Trustees and Treasurer to ensure that the programme and events support Wainsgate CIO to be financially viable and sustainable.

The role will be based on working flexibly 3 to 4 days per month, two years fixed term arrangement with an ability to extend by agreement to three years.

The Creative Director will lead and inspire a dynamic team in delivering innovative visual arts, spoken word, music, and dance programmes at Wainsgate Chapel, including working closely with the Board of Trustees. This role requires strong artistic leadership across all areas, with a particular focus on fostering community engagement through creative initiatives. 

Key Responsibilities

Develop and oversee the creative vision and strategic direction of Wainsgate’s artistic programmes.
Collaborate with artistic leads in visual arts, spoken word, music, and dance to ensure cohesive and inspiring programming.
Work to ensure there is a strong artistic lead of dance programmes at Wainsgate managing any transitions smoothly.
Foster partnerships with local, national, and international artists, organisations , and communities.
Manage project delivery, ensuring high artistic quality, alignment with community interests and financial viability of Wainsgate
Evaluate the impact of artistic programmes and drive continuous improvement.

Essential Criteria

Artistic Leadership

Proven track record in leading creative teams.
Strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in various art forms, with a focus on innovative programming.
Experience in Dance Programmes:
Extensive experience managing national and international dance programmes.
Demonstrated ability to work with diverse dance styles and cultural traditions, fostering inclusivity and artistic expression.

Creative Vision

Ability to conceptualise and deliver visionary artistic projects that resonate with both participants and audiences.
Experience in developing and implementing large-scale community arts initiatives.

Community Engagement

Strong commitment to community-led initiatives, with experience in engaging volunteers and fostering collaboration.
Proven ability to connect with diverse communities, understanding their artistic needs and aspirations.

Collaboration and Partnership

Experience building and maintaining positive relationships with artists, stakeholders, and partner organisations.
Evidence of collaborating effectively with artistic leads to develop integrated programming and managing successfully areas of disagreement

Leadership and Management

Strong leadership skills with experience in mentoring and supporting creative teams.
Capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budgets.

Communication Skills

Evidence of writing bids and achieving successfully funding for arts projects
Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively engage with a variety of audiences.
Ability to advocate for the arts and represent the CIC in public forums, events, and networking opportunities.

Cultural Competency

Deep understanding of the cultural and heritage landscape linked to Wainsgate, with an appreciation for the role of arts in promoting local social cohesion and community well-being.

For more information please contact:

Jo Cubbon Chairman Wainsgate [email protected]
Application by CV emailed to Jo Cubbon by 12 midday 27th October 2025
For more information about what we do visit: Wainsgate.co.uk

Wainsgate Chapel, Wainsgate Lane, Hebden Bridge HX7 8SF

www.wainsgate.co.uk

email: [email protected]

Wainsgate Chapel is a registered charity.

Registered Charity Number: 1198994