About The Role
Shape one of the world’s most distinctive cultural cities. Manchester is a global cultural city with a powerful local identity. Culture is central to the city’s growth, regeneration and sense of place. Following the announcement that Dave Moutrey is retiring, we are seeking an exceptional Director of Culture & Creative Industries to lead at a pivotal moment. This is one of the most senior local authority culture roles in the UK, with significant national and international influence. The role provides strategic leadership for Manchester’s cultural and creative ecosystem, from world‑class institutions and major events to grassroots venues, creative businesses and neighbourhood‑based activity. Reporting to the Strategic Director (Neighbourhoods), you will act as Senior Responsible Officer for our Always Everywhere: Manchester’s Cultural Ambition 2024–2034, and lead delivery of the Manchester Creative Industries Strategy. You will ensure culture and creativity are embedded across council priorities including inclusive economic growth, regeneration, skills, health and zero‑carbon ambitions.
Responsibilities
- Provide clear, visible leadership for culture, creative industries and major cultural programmes.
- Chair and strengthen citywide governance, including the Cultural Strategy Partnership Board, Creative Industries Leadership Group and Events Commission.
- Lead significant capital, commissioning and regeneration activity linked to culture and creative industries.
- Secure investment and drive innovation, commercial development and cross‑sector partnerships.
- Represent and advocate for Manchester locally, nationally and internationally with government, funders and global cultural networks.
- Lead and grow a multidisciplinary service, building new creative industries capacity within the Council.
Qualifications
- Nationally credible cultural leader with significant senior‑level experience in the cultural or creative industries, public sector or similar complex environments.
- Strong track record in creative industries development, investment and partnership working with financial and commercial acumen.
- Politically astute, emotionally intelligent, confident communicator able to navigate complex issues, convene diverse partners and deliver at pace.
- Deep understanding of UK cultural policy, the role of local government and a genuine commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and neighbourhood access.
Benefits we offer
- Generous holiday allowance – up to 26 days annual leave per year plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days after five years of local government service. You may purchase up to two additional weeks.
- A buzzing pension – enrolled in the UK’s largest local government pension scheme, with options to top up; includes life cover of three times the salary as a lump sum.
- Enhanced parental and carer’s leave – designed to provide ample time to bond with a newborn or support a family during critical life events.
- Brilliant perks – discounts on weekly shopping, holidays, phone contracts, cycle‑to‑work scheme, free flu jabs and eye tests, and more.
- Learn and grow – diverse learning opportunities, from workshops and training to apprenticeships and qualifications, beginning with a comprehensive onboarding process.
- Good Employment Charter member – commitment to secure, flexible work; fair pay, trade unions, health and wellbeing support throughout the working life.
- Up to 3 days volunteering leave – pro‑rate paid volunteering leave, in addition to existing benefits.
Closing date
Week Commencing 25th May 2026
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