Wed, 14 May 2025">published - Wed, 14 May 2025
Job Summary
The Holburne Museum seeks a new Chair of the Board—an exciting opportunity to lead a dynamic cultural institution at a pivotal time in its growth.
Job Description
Chair of the Board of the Trustee Company, The Holburne Museum, Bath
Location: Bath (with flexible UK base)
Type: Part-time, Non-Executive, pro bono (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
Term: Three years, renewable up to two further terms
Start Date: Chair Designate from January 2026 | Term begins July 2026
The Holburne Museum, a renowned centre of art, culture, and creativity in the South West, is seeking a new Chair of the Board of the Trustee Company to succeed Edward Bayntun-Coward DL, whose distinguished term concludes in July 2026. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a dynamic and ambitious organisation at a pivotal moment in its development.
With record-breaking visitor numbers, a vibrant programme of exhibitions, and exciting developments including a new gallery funded by the Schroder family, and digital initiatives launching in 2025, the Holburne is on an upward trajectory - and the new Chair will be central to help shape its future.
As Chair, you will provide inclusive leadership to the Board of Directors of the Trustee Company and work in close partnership with the Chief Executive, Dr Chris Stephens. You will ensure high standards of governance and strategic oversight, act as a visible and passionate advocate for the Museum, driving and supporting fundraising efforts during a time of transformative growth.
This is a non-executive leadership role that requires emotional intelligence, sound judgment, and an ability to inspire confidence across a wide range of stakeholders. You will chair Board meetings, lead the development of the Board and its performance, support the Executive Team, the Staff and the Volunteers, and champion the Museum's mission: Changing Lives Through Art.
Job Requirements
We are seeking an individual with:
* A strong personal affinity for the arts and cultural sector
* Significant leadership, board and governance experience, ideally within charities and/or the cultural sphere
* Fundraising experience and the ability to leverage networks for the benefit of the Museum
* A proven ability to lead diverse boards with vision, diplomacy, and clarity
* A commitment to inclusive practice and upholding the Museum's values of quality, relevance, and sustainability
* Familiarity with the cultural landscape in Bath and the South West is highly desirable but not essential.
The Board meets four times a year in Bath. Additional time will be needed to attend events, support the CEO, participate in subcommittees, and represent the Holburne externally. The Chair should ideally be UK-based and regularly available to be on site.
* Job Title: Chair of the Board of the Trustee Company
* Contract: Temporary
* Location: UK-wide
How to Apply
Please send a CV or short biography and covering letter to Sandy Forbes, Board Director and Chair of the Nominations Committee - Holburnechairrole@gmail.com
In your letter (no more than 2 A4 pages) please tell us why you would like to Chair the Board, a little about yourself, and what you would bring to the Holburne.
Expressions of interest should be submitted by the 30th June 2025. Please put Chair 25 in the email header. We will subsequently invite shortlisted applicants for an interview with the Chair and Members of the Nominations Committee.
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, ages, and experiences. Thank you for your interest in the Holburne Museum.
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