Job Description

Shape the cultural heartbeat and creative future of the North East.The newly formed North East Mayoral Combined Authority (North East CA) is seeking an exceptional individual to lead our strategic approach to culture, creative industries and sport xe2x80x94 three vital pillars of our regions identity and economic growth.As Head of Culture, Creative Industries and Sport, you will play a pivotal role in positioning the North East as a national and international leader in cultural innovation, creative enterprise, and active, thriving communities. You will help drive inclusive economic growth through the power of culture and creativity, champion the regions distinctive assets, and oversee the development of transformative investment and partnership programmes.Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver a coherent regional strategy for culture, creative industries and sport, aligned with North East CAs economic growth and innovation agenda.

• Lead stakeholder engagement across local authorities, cultural organisations, creative businesses, sporting bodies and national agencies.

• Secure and manage public and private investment to support regional initiatives and major events.

• Promote innovation, talent development and diversity across the sector.

• Work closely with regional and national partners (e.g. Arts Council England, Department for Digital Culture, Media and Sport, Sport England) to advocate for the North Easts cultural and creative economy.

• Provide strategic leadership to a growing team and contribute to wider policy areas across the Combined Authority.

About You:

• You bring significant senior-level experience in cultural policy, creative industries, or sport development, ideally in a public-sector or place-based senior national leadership role.

• You have a track record of successful programme delivery, investment management, and stakeholder collaboration at regional or national level.

• Youre a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of the role that culture, creativity and sport play in economic development, social inclusion and place-making.

• Youre passionate about the North East and its potential as a global centre of cultural and creative excellence.

Why Join Us?This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic, forward-thinking Combined Authority at a time of significant devolution, investment and ambition. Youll shape policy and delivery in a region with a rich cultural heritage, vibrant communities and a commitment to innovation.To ApplyIf you would like an informal discussion, or further information about this role please contact:Phil Witcherley, Director for Economy, Innovation and Culture at (phil.witcherley@northeast-ca.gov.uk) Closing date for applications: Noon on 3rd June 2025.We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to ensure our leadership reflects the diversity of our region.For further information about the North East Combined Authority please see the authoritys websiteThis recruitment is being administered by Durham County Council on behalf of the North East Combined Authority.PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL COMMUNICATION REGARDING YOUR APPLICATION FOR THIS POST WILL BE SENT TO THE EMAIL ADDRESS THAT YOU HAVE REGISTERED WITH NORTH EAST JOBS, INCLUDING YOUR INVITE TO INTERVIEW IF YOU ARE SHORTLISTED. PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL AFTER THE CLOSING DATE FOR NOTIFICATION FROM AS YOU WILL NOT BE NOTIFIED BY ANY OTHER MEANS. PLEASE ENSURE YOU CHECK YOUR JUNK MAIL.

Durham County Council