DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS / DEPUTY DIRECTOR RECRUITMENT PACK
Dear Applicant,
Many thanks for expressing an interest in joining Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage.
Founded in 2010, Serendipity’s 2025 programme of events are united by this year’s theme: Intersection: Diasporic Dialogues. This theme reflects Serendipity’s commitment to illuminating overlooked voices, fostering meaningful exchanges, and building bridges across shared experiences and histories.
The year begins with the arrival of the fourth cohort of Young Archivists, a programme empowering young people aged 18 to 30 from underrepresented communities to shape the future of the heritage sector. Their journey sets the tone for a year dedicated to learning, dialogue and creativity. In March, we celebrate International Women’s Day by hosting a thought-provoking conversation celebrating the power of Black women’s voices. April brings a milestone celebration as we mark the fifteenth anniversary of Serendipity’s flagship dance festival, Let’s Dance International Frontiers (LDIF). Launching on International Dance Day (29 April), LDIF has grown into a vibrant platform for exploring identity, representation and ownership.Highlights include a performance by Ballet Hispánico at Curve, presenting an electrifying reimagining of Carmen.
As we move into June, the Annual Windrush Day Lecture takes centre stage. Delivered by Professor Verene A Shepherd, this year’s lecture will examine the far-reaching impact of the Windrush generation from a Caribbean perspective, emphasising the power and necessity of Diasporic dialogues.
In October, Black History Month Leicester (BHM), the programme for which is coordinated by Serendipity, invites us to delve deeper into the theme of Intersection: Diasporic Dialogues through a series of films, documentaries and discussions at Phoenix. These stories spotlight the lives of the Windrush generation, Black activists and revolutionaries, uncovering their powerful and often untold contributions.
Pushing the boundaries of creativity, 2025 also marks the launch of Serendipity Online, a digital hub for Black artists, leaders, academics and researchers to connect, collaborate and showcase their work. This innovation expands Serendipity’s reach and creates new opportunities for dialogue and discovery. The journey of exploration continues with Serendipity’s first heritage conference, Black Heritage Voices: The Importance of Black Archives in Preserving Historical Memory. This event brings together professionals from Black and Asian communities, challenging traditional narratives and reshaping the future of the heritage field.
The year concludes with the warm embrace of A Very Serendipity Christmas Market, where we gather to celebrate the festive season with artisan stalls and community spirit.
We are now looking for a Director of Operations to join Serendipity to develop and realise our vision. After completion of a probationary period of six months and appropriate training, we envisage that the successful applicant will be promoted to Deputy Director.
To apply please submit a CV, a cover letter (no more than 2 sides of A4) and the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form, which will be used for monitoring purposes only. Please send your completed forms to: opportunities@serendipity-uk.com
The closing date for all applications is 4 March 2025 and interviews will take place week commencing 17 March 2025.
Once again, we thank you for the interest you have shown in working at Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage. We hope that you decide to apply.
Kind regards,
Tony Graves (Chair) and Pawlet Brookes (CEO/Artistic Director)
SERENDIPITY IN PROFILE
Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage is a leading cultural organisation dedicated to amplifying Black arts, culture and heritage through a diverse array of programmes, exhibitions, festivals and educational initiatives.
Our mission is to celebrate, preserve and support Black creative expression, whilst promoting social change, community engagement and diversity within the arts sector. We actively support both emerging and established Black artists, foster creative entrepreneurship, and encourage meaningful cultural dialogue within communities.
VISION, MISSION AND VALUES
VISION
Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage transforms the cultural landscape through innovative and inspiring programmes.
VALUES
International
A global perspective, working together to make great things happen.
Creative
MISSION
Our mission is to celebrate, preserve and support Black creative expression, whilst promoting social change, community engagement and diversity within the arts sector.
Showcasing innovative work that pushes boundaries and imaginative problem solving. Diverse
Championing access and inclusion for all.
Quality
Professional, high standard artistic work and practice that exceeds expectations.
Sharing
Opportunities to share knowledge and practice, inform and inspire.
ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
CEO / ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS / DEPUTY DIRECTOR
DIGITAL PROJECT MANAGER
HERITAGE MANAGER
FINANCE OFFICER
ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANTS
EVENTS TEAM INTERNS VOLUNTEERS
DIGITAL ARCHIVIST COLLECTIONS ARCHIVIST
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
ACCOUNTANTS CONSULTANTS SOLICITORS (EXTERNAL)
JOB OVERVIEW
We are seeking an exceptional and experienced Director of Operations/Deputy Director to oversee the day-to-day management of the Institute. This senior leadership role will be pivotal in ensuring the smooth and effective operation of the organisation, aligning operational strategies with our mission and values. The Director of Operations will be responsible for ensuring that all deadlines are met, overseeing human resources, operational systems, external contracts, policy development, financial management and ensuring that the Institute's guiding principle of "changing the lens" is embedded throughout our programmes and initiatives.
The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of experience in operational management within the arts or cultural sector, with a passion for supporting Black arts and heritage. The role requires a commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace, the ability to manage effectively cross-functional teams and to liaise with artists, programming partners and funders.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Human Resources and Staff Management
Lead human resources functions, including recruitment, staff development, performance management, and payroll administration.
Line-manage staff, including freelance and PAYE employees, ensuring equitable treatment, support, and professional development opportunities.
Foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture that embodies the Institute's core values of diversity, equity and inclusion.
Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with employment law, health and safety regulations, and equality initiatives.
Operational Leadership and Strategy
Develop and continually refine operational systems, ensuring efficient and effective delivery of the Institute’s programmes and projects.
Provide strategic leadership for key initiatives, events and exhibitions, ensuring alignment with the Institute’s mission and objectives.
Collaborate with the senior leadership team to integrate Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) practices throughout all operational areas.
Lead cross-functional teams to ensure the successful delivery of annual programmes, including festivals, artist residencies, publications, heritage initiatives and international collaborations.
Fundraising and Stakeholder Engagement
Support fundraising efforts by working closely with the CEO to develop strategies for securing funding from trusts, foundations and individual donors.
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including funders, partners, and the wider arts and cultural community.
Represent the Institute at external events, advocating for its mission and raising awareness of its work.
Policy, Governance and Compliance
Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, including data protection, health and safety legislation, and equality policies.
Act as the primary point of contact for governance matters, liaising with the Board of Trustees and relevant external agencies as required.
Oversee the implementation of the Black Lives Matter Action Plan and other diversity-focused initiatives.
Financial Management
Oversee the Institute's financial operations, including budgeting and forecasting
Ensure the organisation’s financial health by staying within budgetary constraints and ensuring costeffectiveness.
Collaborate with the fundraising team to implement income-generation strategies, securing funding to ensure the Institute’s financial sustainability.
Oversee contracts, payments and invoicing for staff, artists, partners, and suppliers, ensuring timely and accurate processing.
Reporting and Evaluation
Provide regular operational performance reports to the CEO, Board of Trustees and funders, highlighting key metrics and addressing any challenges in a timely manner.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the Institute’s programmes, providing actionable insights to improve organisational performance.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS
Operational Leadership: Proven track record of managing operations in an arts, cultural, or non-profit organisation.
Human Resources: In-depth experience in human resources management, encompassing recruitment, employee relations, and staff development.
Strategic Vision: Strong ability to think strategically and implement operational plans aligned with the organisation’s mission.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Demonstrated commitment to embedding EDI principles both within the organisational culture and in programme delivery.
Fundraising and Partnerships: Experience in securing funding and building strategic relationships with donors, funders, and stakeholders.
Financial Acumen: Experience in financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to advocate for and present the Institute’s work and to edit publications and marketing collateral.
Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to resolve issues swiftly and effectively.
IT Proficiency: Proficient in using financial and operational software, including spreadsheets, databases, and project management tools.
Leadership: Ability to inspire, motivate and manage a diverse team, fostering a collaborative work environment.
Flexibility: Adaptable and comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
Collaborative: Team-oriented, with the ability to work cross-functionally and build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
Meticulous: Rigorous attention to detail and professionalism.
International Engagement: Strong focus on international collaborations, particularly in support of Black artists and creatives.
Integrity: Commitment to high ethical standards, transparency and accountability, in all aspects of the organisation’s operations.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Position: Director of Operations
Salary: Starting salary £42,500, with cost of living pay increases each year, on appointment to Deputy Director in year 2, £47,500
Pension: 5% contribution by employer
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week
Location: Leicester
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 4 March 2025
Interview Date: 17 March 2025
100 Black Women Who Have Made A Mark Exhibition at Leicester Gallery
HOW TO APPLY
To apply please submit a CV, a cover letter (no more than 2 sides of A4) and the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form, which will be used for monitoring purposes only. Please send your completed forms to: opportunities@serendipity-uk.com
Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage is an equal opportunities employer. We particularly welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups within the arts sector.
Additional Information
For further inquiries, please contact Pawlet Brookes at opportunities@serendipity-uk.com.
We look forward to receiving your application.
8 Bowling Green Street
Leicester LE1 6AT
+44(0)116 482 1394
info@serendipity-uk.com www serendipity-uk com
Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage
Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage
@serendipityinstituteuk
@SerendipityInfo www.serendipity-uk.com
Serendipity Artists Movement Ltd
Company number in England and Wales 07248813
Charity number in England and Wales 1160035 Cover Image: Ballet Hispánico at Let’s
