Chief Executive Officer

Job Description Chief Executive OfficerSalary: 49, 282 - 54,495 per annumLocation: Gorse Hill Studios, Trafford, Manchester (Some remote working will be considered)Contract Type: Full time, permanentAbout Gorse Hill StudiosGorse Hill Studios is a dynamic and ambitious youth and community arts charity. At the heart of our organisation is a belief that all young people deserve to feel valued, supported and inspired. We work with young people to build confidence, creativity and community connections, ensuring they have the opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive.We believe that creativity can transform lives, and we are committed to placing young people at the centre of everything we do. Their voices, ideas and experiences help shape our programmes, partnerships and strategic direction.We are entering an exciting phase of growth and development. Our team currently includes 20 core staff and a wider network of volunteers and creative practitioners, delivering a diverse portfolio of youth arts sessions, community engagement projects, creative wellbeing initiatives and partnership-led activity with local schools and organisations. The CEO will play a pivotal role in leading this portfolio, strengthening our impact, championing youth voice and ensuring young people continue to shape our future direction as we move into the next chapter of our development.About the RoleAs CEO, you will provide strategic, compassionate and visionary leadership, ensuring Gorse Hill Studios delivers its mission to empower and inspire young people. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you will hold overall responsibility for the organisations performance, culture, operations and long-term sustainability. This role calls for someone who demonstrates strong strategic insight with the ability to influence and inspire others, using emotional intelligence and collaborative leadership to build positive internal and external relationships.A fundamental part of this role is your commitment to embedding young peoples voice in decision making. You will champion their perspectives, ensuring programme development, strategy and organisational culture reflect the needs and aspirations of the young people we serve.You will also be an ambassador for the charity, building trusted relationships with young people, partners, funders and the wider community. This role requires a leader who is values led, resilient and passionate about supporting young people through the arts and creative engagement.Roles and ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership and GovernanceLead on the development and delivery of the charitys long-term strategy, with young people meaningfully involvedEnsure compliance with all statutory, regulatory and governance requirements, including Charity Commission expectations and safeguarding dutiesProvide clear, timely reporting to the BoardSupport the Board to operate effectivelyFinancial Management and Income GenerationOversee budgeting, financial planning and responsible management of all fundsLead a diverse income generation strategyIdentify sustainable opportunities for organisational growthOperational Management and Programme DeliveryOversee day to day operations and ensure systems are effectiveEnsure programmes are high quality, inclusive and reflective of young peoples needs and feedbackAct as Designated Safeguarding Lead, or ensure robust safeguarding practices across the organisationPeople Leadership and CultureInspire, support and lead a dedicated staff and volunteer teamChampion a positive, inclusive and collaborative working cultureOversee recruitment, wellbeing and performance managementExternal Relations and AdvocacyAct as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for Gorse Hill StudiosBuild strong relationships with partners, funders and stakeholdersAdvocate for and with young people locally and nationallyRepresent the charity confidently at events and in the mediaSkills and ExperienceEssential:Senior leadership experience in the charity, youth, arts or wider non-profit sectorStrong financial management skillsProven success in fundraising or income generationExcellent communication and stakeholder engagementKnowledge of safeguarding practices in youth settingsExperience leading teams and developing positive organisational culturesStrategic leadership experienceDesirableExperience in the youth arts or creative community sectorUnderstanding of the Trafford community landscapeValues and CommitmentWe are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals who share these values and are passionate about empowering young people.An enhanced DBS check will be required.Application DetailsTo apply, please submit your CV and covering letter.Closing date: 19 JanuaryInterview date: 23 January at Gorse Hill StudiosInterviews will include a stakeholder panel and a formal interview.REF-225 658

Created: 2025-12-13