We are seeking new Board Directors to work alongside our Chair and Executive team in an exciting new chapter for our organisation, as we transition from a social enterprise model (CIC) into a charitable structure (CIO).
What difference will you make?
OUR IMPACT As a small grassroots organisation, we have a disproportionately large – and growing – impact, packing real punch. Increasing reach Our audiences are growing 20% year-on-year. Our audience is 26% Global Majority against Eastbourne's average of 8%. So far in 2025, it is 34%. 25% of our audience are neurodivergent and 18% D/deaf and/or disabled. 83% of visitors were 'more' or 'much more likely' to attend a cultural event after their visit to DC. 84% describe their experience as very good and 89% feel welcome and comfortable. Responding to real need 15,000 people live in the Devonshire ward neighbourhood. Devonshire ward ranks in the top 9% most socio-economically deprived nationally, against Eastbourne's average of 22%. Child poverty in Eastbourne is 31.2%. At our local primary school Bourne, 49% of children are EFL and 39% are eligible for Pupil Premium. There are 280 HMOs in the ward, and 243 families in temporary accommodation.
What are we looking for?
QUALITIES AND EXPERIENCE We are seeking inspiring and engaged individuals who will share our values, ensure best practice across the organisation's activities and contribute to continuing to raise our profile locally and nationally, and to work alongside our committed and proactive Board of Directors and brilliant team of staff. We are particularly interested in people with the following experience Previous experience of a Board and an understanding of good governance in business, the public or not-for profit sector and the duties and responsibilities of Board Directors. Experience of leading an organisation through significant change against a background of financial challenge and sector unpredictability. Strategic vision, creative thinking, independent judgement and ability to focus on practical issues. Passion for the visual arts and the power of art and creativity to transform lives. A willingness to play an active role in fundraising and capital project planning. A connection to Eastbourne or the wider Southeast region. Diverse professional networks which will support our organisational objectives. Knowledge of and an interest in environmental responsibility. Objectivity, fairness, integrity, wisdom, discretion and good judgment.
What will you be doing?
RESPONSIBILITIES The Board Provides entrepreneurial leadership within a framework of prudent and effective controls which enable risk to be assessed and managed. Sets Devonshire Collective's strategic aims with the Executive and ensures that the necessary financial and human resources are in place for the Company to meet its objectives. Takes an active role in the preparation and approval of the business plan, ensuring progress against key performance indicators. Observes Devonshire Collective's articles of association (as a CIO this will become Charitable Objects), company law and other regulatory requirements. Ensures that Devonshire Collective complies with relevant statutory legislation and current best practice in the not-for-profit sector. Supports and guides our activities by attending Board meetings, committee meetings and working groups, and by attending other relevant events. Participates in Devonshire Collective Board's various subcommittees. Appoints the Director and approves the remuneration of the team. Safeguards Devonshire Collective's financial stability, including approval of the annual accounts, ensuring that adequate resources exist to delivery our current and future activities. Acts as ambassador for Devonshire Collective's activities.