Attributes
Experience/Skills
Essential
- A strong interest in the performing arts, and commitment to Birmingham Hippodrome’s championing of inclusion and anti-racism.
- An understanding of charity governance.
- A fluent and persuasive communicator, who can represent the organisation publicly as well as internally.
- Demonstrable ability to represent Birmingham Hippodrome and build relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
- Experience of chairing an organisation or strategic committee.
- Acknowledged success in running complex organisations effectively through periods of significant uncertainty and change.
- Financial and commercial acumen.
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to deal effectively with internal and external relationships.
- The ability to achieve consensus through balanced discussion at the Board which allows a diversity of opinion.
- Commercially astute, strategically adept and a clear attitude to risk in a large and complex cultural organisation.
- A willingness to understand artistic provision and the mechanics that deliver it, as well as the interconnectedness of the overall operating model.
- An appreciation of the non-executive nature of the role, and a willingness to support and mentor the CEO and Executive Team when required.
- Willingness to act as an advocate and provide support on fundraising activities and events in connection with specific project or development campaigns proposed from time to time.
Desirable
- Well-networked with regional and national political connections and a willingness to maximise contacts and relationships for the benefit of Birmingham Hippodrome.
- Experience of working on charitable fundraising campaigns as a trustee or non-executive director.
- An understanding of the publicly funded context in which Birmingham Hippodrome operates, as well as the importance of relationships with the government, ACE and local and regional authorities.
Temperament and Personality
- A robust decisive personality, with a clear outlook and consistently sound judgement.
- Proven track record in ethical decision making and handling difficult issues with authority and confidence.
- Approachable and outgoing but having the strength and resilience to chair an organisation with challenging commercial objectives.
- Ability to collaborate and get the best out of people.