Chief Executive

Following 150 years of remarkable history, the Royal School of Needlework now seeks a new Chief Executive to lead the exciting next chapter of refresh and renewal, enriching lives through the powerful and captivating language and practice of embroidery.

About the RSN

The RSN was established in 1872 at a small single site in London to revive and teach the art of hand embroidery. Since their humble beginnings, they have expanded their activities and extended their reach worldwide gaining an international reputation for the knowledge, expertise and skills of their tutors and the excellence of work in their professional studio.

Based at Hampton Court Palace, in south-west London, the RSN offers an education programme for everyone; from beginners through to those pursuing hand embroidery as a professional career, and it shares its knowledge, skills and heritage through talks, tours exhibitions and online resources.

About the role

The RSN is looking for a Chief Executive to help them on their transformational journey to grow, develop and extend the reach and impact of their work. They are committed to ongoing improvement and embracing innovation; the new CE must share a passion for their mission and determination to evolve their operations helping to develop existing relationships and seek out new opportunities for future growth.

The RSN seek a leader with a keen eye to the horizon to actively promote the RSN’s educational and commercial activity, raising its profile amongst national and international communities. Demonstrating strategic acuity, they will lead on the direction of the organisation, monitoring and implementing business plans and strategies, overseeing and interrogating in mitigating risk and ensuring financial sustainability.

Who are we looking for?

The next Chief Executive will act as an ambassador for the organisation, developing external plans and communications to capitalise on achievements, raise profile and reach new audiences. 

They will have a proven track record as an exemplary people manager, team builder and visionary leader. Empowering in their approach to leadership, and coaching in their managerial style, they will positively impact on the existing passionate and loyal staff and tutor network, developing an ethos for the RSN, and leading and embodying the values of a positive and inclusive culture, where everyone feels valued and respected. 

A self-starter and decision maker with drive and sound judgement and with a pragmatic and resilient outlook, the new CE will have the ability to maintain oversight and control of a multi-faceted operation and evaluate and interrogate financial/budgetary performance. 

With experience in or understanding of fundraising principles and of generating diverse income streams, this role requires a leader with experience in business development, charity management, and strategic planning. Possessing a blend of commercial acumen, strategic vision, and a passion for the organisation's mission, the new CE may have prior experience in the art, culture or heritage sector, but more importantly will believe in the RSN’s mission and appreciate its relevance today. 

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the job description and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Thursday 30th May.