Job Description Position: Joint Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the National Arts Festival and the Grahamstown Foundation. Reporting to: Board of Directors. Direct Reports: Technical and Operations Director, Artistic Director, Finance Manager. Location: Makhanda (Grahamstown), Eastern Cape. Employment type: Full time. Salary: Market‑related salary to be negotiated. Start date: As soon as possible, preferably no later than 1 July 2026. Contract: 5‑year fixed term. Dual role: the CEO will also serve as CEO of the Grahamstown Foundation, overseeing the affairs of the Foundation, the Monument building, and the development of the conferencing business. Core Responsibilities Accountability for delivering strategic outcomes identified jointly with the Board. Accountability for all aspects of the running of the business according to an agreed plan, including developing and managing an organogram and deploying resources to achieve objectives. Act as the primary spokesperson and brand custodian. Ensure implementation of all Board‑mandated policies and practices. Convene and attend all Board and Executive Committee meetings and prepare full reports, including status reports, stakeholder dashboards, management accounts, risk analysis, and mitigation reports. Act as Company Secretary. Vision We are not looking for an administrator; we seek a visionary capable of leading two storied cultural organisations into their next chapter. Opportunity You will be the architect of the next chapter for the National Arts Festival and the Grahamstown Foundation, guiding a dedicated team of 24 experts to bring our shared mission to life. Roles and Responsibilities Key Performance Areas and Tasks Lead the process of developing the company’s strategy in line with its vision and mission. In consultation with the Board, formulate a 5‑year strategic plan aligned with the Memorandum of Incorporation. Develop a business plan to ensure delivery of the strategy. Identify key areas of delivery. Identify, in consultation with the Exco and management, specific projects and programmes that align with strategic objectives. Formulate a business plan for the projects, including resource plan and budget. Take accountability for implementation of the strategy and lead the Festival team. Delegate responsibility to the Management Team. Monitor progress of each project or programme to ensure delivery. Seek new opportunities aligned with overall strategy. Develop business plans, budgets and human resources for new projects. Identify ongoing opportunities for new projects and collaborations, partnerships, and sponsorships. Develop business cases for new projects, conceptualising and implementing innovative initiatives. Identify, contract with and manage all stakeholders and funders. Manage festival funders, entering agreements for projects and support. Ensure compliance with funding agreements. Identify and pursue new funding and partnership opportunities. Ensure compliance with all legislation, regulations, industry codes and funder stipulations. Develop understanding of governance and reporting requirements and ensure accurate compliance. Ensure financial sustainability of both the National Arts Festival and Grahamstown Foundation. Develop, implement and monitor cash‑flow forecasts, budgets and reporting mechanisms. Develop and implement the strategic marketing plan. Act as primary custodian of the Festival and project brands. Work with team and suppliers to articulate and implement brand strategy. Maintain and develop key fixed assets – the Monument and Power Station buildings – and use them to further the company’s purpose. Identify opportunities and implement plans and partnerships to realise them. Qualifications and Requirements The Creative Edge 10–15 years of senior leadership within the cultural sector or a creative parallel. Master communicator capable of addressing national media, drafting strategic vision, and inspiring a team of 50. The Strategic Engine Financial expertise: budgets, cash‑flow forecasting, and complex reporting. Proven track record of leading organisational change. Dual‑lens leadership: strategic perspective and operational excellence. The Power of Connection Strong partnership and sponsorship acquisition skills. Political savvy within South African funding landscape. The Drive Boundless energy and stamina to lead through festival season, travel extensively and operate as front‑line leader. How to Apply Submit a covering letter (max two pages) outlining a vision for the National Arts Festival and its evolving role in South Africa, highlighting personal attributes and experience. Submit a CV detailing work experience, educational qualifications, and contact details of three references (at least one from a current or previous employer). Shortlisted candidates must consent to background and criminal checks and undergo psychometric testing. All documentation should be emailed to no later than 5 pm on Sunday, 31 May 2026. Late applications will not be considered. Candidates selected for a preliminary interview will be contacted in June 2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr