Chief Operations Officer – Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust

Established in 1967 the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust (IGMT) is one of the UK’s largest independent museum trusts and custodian of some of the nation’s most significant industrial heritage; including Coalbrookdale, which is regarded as one of the most important historic landscapes in the world. Set within a 6 square mile UNESCO World Heritage Site, and centred on the world’s first cast iron bridge, are 10 award-winning museums and 35 Scheduled Ancient Monuments and listed buildings that collectively tell the fascinating story of Ironbridge Gorge as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and its remarkable transformation through time.

IGMT’s nationally designated collections include art and memorabilia relating to industrial history. These include Coalbrookdale ironwork, decorative ceramics – notably Coalport China and Maw’s Tiles, Craven Dunnill and collections and records of the Darby family – the remarkable dynasty of Quaker Ironmasters whose innovations in the production and application of iron changed how people live, work and communicate across the globe. Attracting 450,000 visitors every year the museums are a major contributor to tourism in Shropshire and the West Midlands and a driver to the local economy.

The Chief Operations Officer (COO) is a new role at Ironbridge, created at a pivotal moment for the organisation as it looks forward following the global pandemic. The organisation has agreed a 3-year plan to increase financial resilience and its commercial offering to ensure success.

In spring 2022, IGMT will unveil a new brand identity – Ironbridge Valley of Invention, in what will be an exciting new chapter in the Trust’s history. The new brand will look to unify the Trust’s value proposition with four messaging pillars (inform, inspire, involve and innovate) articulating its core principles, approach and behaviour. The team and board is being refreshed to complement these strategic developments and the COO will be a key part of the leadership team contributing to the new vision of Ironbridge. The postholder, a member of the Senior Management Team will work closely with colleagues to help develop the Museum’s future strategy and success, particularly around operational and commercial delivery, and visitor experience. Candidates will bring senior operational practice and excellent commercial acumen, ideally with previous experience within the cultural sector. They will have strong interpersonal skills and will be a key ambassador for Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust with the communications skills to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders. The postholder will have a passion for arts and culture, ideally with a strong interest in the work of the trust.

Click here to download the COO appointment brief>>

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference PAZZHF. Alternatively telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours).

Applications should be received by 12noon on Wednesday 20 April 2022.

Click here to apply>>