Chief Executive Officer

The Royal Ballet School stands as a beacon of excellence in performing arts education. With a legacy steeped in tradition and innovation, we have nurtured generations of talented dancers, shaping the future of ballet on a global stage. As we approach our centenary milestone in 2026, we embark on an exciting new chapter of growth and transformation.

The Royal Ballet School is seeking a visionary leader to serve as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This role presents a unique opportunity to guide our esteemed institution through a period of significant change, ensuring continued excellence and relevance in the dynamic landscape of performing arts education.

The Role:

• Refine and articulate a clear vision and sustainable strategic direction for The Royal Ballet School, aligning with its mission and values.
• Lead the organisation through the consequential change and transformation program, identifying key areas for improvement and implementing innovative strategies to enhance performance and impact, working closely with members of the Executive Leadership Team, and supported by board members.
• Support the Artistic Director in the creation of a plan for the development of the School’s artistic programmes and the support these need from the rest of the organisation
• Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with stakeholders, including Royal Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet, government agencies, cultural institutions, corporate sponsors, and philanthropic supporters.
• Working closely with the Chief Operating Officer, develop and oversee the implementation of a sustainable financial strategy, optimising revenue streams and cost efficiencies to support the organisation's long-term viability and growth.
• Champion diversity, equality, and inclusion initiatives within the organisation, promoting a supportive and inclusive environment for students, faculty, and staff.

The Person:

• Proven track record of executive leadership in a complex organisation, preferably in the performing arts, education, or nonprofit sector.
• Demonstrated experience leading organisational change and transformation programmes, with a focus on strategy development, implementation, and evaluation.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience managing budgets, financial planning, and risk assessment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse stakeholders, including staff, board members, donors, and community partners.
• High levels of emotional intelligence with the ability to work with people at all levels within an organisation, leading them through change. Excellent influencing skills will be beneficial.
• Demonstrated success in developing strategic partnerships, growing commercial revenue, and increasing fundraised income to support organisational goals.
• Commitment to the mission and values of The Royal Ballet School, with a passion for arts education and talent development.
• Advanced degree in business administration, arts management, or a related field is preferred.

For further information and details on how to apply, please visit: http://www.berwickpartners.co.uk/90847

For an informal and confidential discussion, please speak with our advisors at Berwick Partners:

William Pringle

Partner, Head of Charity, Arts, Culture & Heritage Practice

Berwick Partners

+44 (0) 207 518 2635 / +44 (0) 7515 919 648

William.Pringle@berwickpartners.co.uk

Closing date for applications: Thursday 28^th March 2024