I’m delighted that you are interested in joining us as a Governor at Southbank Centre. I hope this pack provides you with the information and inspiration you need to see how you might help us shape the future of this truly iconic, busy and vibrant site.
Our Board and Path Ahead
We’re looking to refresh our Board with up to three new Governors. This follows the departure in the summer of two colleagues who are stepping down at the end of their maximum tenure and who have brilliantly helped us steer through some of the most recent challenging – yet rewarding – chapters for the Southbank Centre.
Our Board possesses significant depth, expertise and an unwavering passion for what we do. We take pride in our robust governance and in our collaborative relationship with Arts Council England, ensuring that we remain as stable and resilient as we are creative.
2026: A Landmark Moment
This is an extraordinary time to join the Board. 2026 marks the 75th anniversary of the Royal Festival Hall. Inspired by the optimism of the original Festival of Britain, our exciting anniversary programme includes landmark events with major UK artists including Harry Styles, Danny Boyle and Dua Lipa, as well as weekend events with Gary Lineker’s The Rest is…podcasts, a National steel pan band takeover and a weekend exploring the relationship between art and technology. Events around the country include A Poet in Every Port with Roger McGough and a children’s countrywide literature project – Imagine the Future – with Lemn Sissay at its helm. The cultural importance of our venues in this anniversary year was recognised recently by an award of £10m from the Government’s Art Everywhere fund for urgent infrastructure work in the RFH, as well as the granting of Grade Two listing to both the Queen Elizabeth Hall and the Hayward Gallery.
What We Look For
Beyond formal responsibilities, we look for Governors who will:
- Challenge and inspire: Gain the confidence of our Executive Team by adding tangible, real-world value.
- Stay curious: Remain actively engaged and genuinely supportive of our mission.
- Be our loudest voice: Act as a tireless, fearless advocate for our site, our programming and our boldest ambitions.
Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
We believe the Southbank Centre belongs to everyone. To make that a reality, our Board must reflect the diverse communities we serve. We particularly welcome applications from global majority candidates, women, people with disabilities and other groups currently underrepresented on Boards.
Furthermore, while our base is in London, our reach is National. We’re eager to bring in voices with deep experience in the arts outside of the capital, to help to broaden our perspective and reach.
If you share our vision for a creative, inclusive, and world-class future, we would love to hear from you.