Head of Culture, Heritage, Arts & Special Events (CHASE)
Ref: 253
Salary: £62,611 p.a. plus benefits
Hours: 37 hours per week
If you can partner effectively, and have a blend of strategic vision and commercial focus, then this exciting role may be for you.
Swindon Borough Council is on an exciting journey to transform service delivery and has been shortlisted for the ‘Most Improved Council’ at the Local Government Awards (LGA).
We want our town to be the best it can be. Our ambitious vision in the new Swindon Plan is supported by transformation programmes, with the people of Swindon at their heart. Because that’s who we’re doing it for – the communities and businesses that make our town great. As part of the Council, you’ll support a friendly local authority making decisions with real impact. It’s all for better public services, better processes, and a better quality of life for everyone. Join us, and Swindon will be better with you.
You will develop and lead the council’s culture, heritage, arts, and events strategies, and be the lead officer for implementing innovative and creative projects that support the priorities of the Swindon Plan.
The Council’s STEAM Museum, Museum and Art Gallery, and Lydiard House Museum showcase the area’s rich heritage and history, alongside an internationally significant modern art collection, with a year-round programme of events. Swindon is actively working to preserve and revitalise its railway heritage through initiatives like the Swindon Heritage Action Zone. It is also designated a "priority place" by Arts Council England (ACE), which aims to increase cultural investment and opportunities in Swindon, fostering growth in the arts and culture sector, creating scope for impactful work in this role.
Your next role
On a day-to-day basis, you will represent the council’s interests (acting as commissioner/client in various relationships) and collaborate with external providers to ensure they contribute effectively to Swindon’s cultural, heritage, arts, and special events priorities, enhancing the town’s appeal and supporting its growth agenda.
The postholder will manage relations with providers, stakeholders, central government, and partners (such as Arts Council England, Science Museum, and National Lottery Heritage Fund) to achieve continuous service improvement and expand cultural activities for residents. A commercial focus will be key to sustainable growth.
You must be fluent in English (as required by Part 7 of the Immigration Act for customer-facing roles).
Your next package
Please refer to our Rewards and Benefits page for more details.
As an employee, you will enjoy a diverse and innovative environment that encourages creativity, supports personal development, and promotes work-life balance.
Swindon is undergoing regeneration and transformation, and you will join us at an exciting time. Your knowledge, influence, and drive will help us realize our vision of a prosperous, revitalised Swindon. You will be proud to say it was made better with you.
Your next steps
Read the role profile and apply by sending your CV and cover letter to resourcing@swindon.gov.uk, quoting ref 253 and outlining your skills and experience.
We welcome applications from diverse communities, including disabled people and ethnic minorities, and consider individual skills and passion alongside formal requirements.
For an informal discussion, contact Matt Peachey, Director of Inclusion Growth, at MPeachey@swindon.gov.uk.
Closing date: 4 June 2025
Interview dates: 16 or 20 June 2025
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