Chair of the Board of Governors

The Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD) is a distinctive conservatoire-level institution and a nationally significant cultural organisation, uniquely positioned as the only specialist contemporary dance higher education provider in the North of England.

Based in Leeds, it combines internationally recognised education and training with a strong civic and sector stewardship. NSCD supports talent development from pre-vocational access through to undergraduate, postgraduate and professional practice, with a clear commitment to widening participation and enabling talented students from all backgrounds to progress into the profession.

As an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation and home to Riley Theatre, NSCD makes an important contribution to cultural life, audience development and the regional and national dance ecology. Its distinctive strength lies in the way it brings together artistic excellence, student success, community engagement and partnership working, creating public value locally, nationally and internationally.

The Role

As Chair of Governors, you will provide strategic, independent and inspiring leadership to the Board, fostering a culture of collaboration, trust, thoughtful challenge and collective ambition. Working closely with fellow Governors, you will help shape the strategic direction of the School as we work our way through our 2023 – 2030 strategy, focusing on shaping who we are, building our foundation and building our visibility and profile for our future.

As Chair, you will also ensure NSCD remains well governed, financially sustainable and firmly connected to its mission and values.

You will work in close partnership with Sharon Watson MBE, Principal and CEO, alongside the wider senior leadership team, building trusted and open relationships where honesty, curiosity and constructive challenge are welcomed. The role will require both support and scrutiny, balancing encouragement with accountability to help the organisation thrive.

The Chair will play a central role in stewarding NSCD through its next phase of development and influence, championing its distinctive contribution to higher education, artistic excellence and cultural life.

This is an exciting opportunity to support a nationally significant institution that is transforming lives through dance, creativity and inclusive education.

Process

Peridot is acting as an employment agency adviser to the Northern School of Contemporary Dance on this appointment.  For more information, including how to apply, please refer to their website at www.peridotpartners.co.uk/jobs/chair-of-the-board-of-governors-nscd.  Alternatively, contact Olivia Robson on olivia@peridotpartners.co.uk or 07903 924770.