Arts Centre Operator
Blackwood Miners Institute Closing date: Wed, 18 Nov 2026
- Full time
- £50k+
Thu, 08 Oct 2026 "> published -
Job Summary
Job Description
Blackwood Miners' Institute has been at the heart of cultural life in South East Wales, presenting theatre, music, comedy, community events, and creative participation opportunities that bring people together through arts and culture.
The Council is seeking an external operator with the vision, creativity, and experience to build upon this proud heritage and help shape the future of the venue. The successful organisation will be responsible for delivering an ambitious artistic and cultural programme, engaging communities, supporting artists and creative talent, developing audiences, and contributing to the long-term sustainability of this important cultural asset.
The successful operator will have the opportunity to:
Deliver an ambitious and inclusive artistic and cultural programme.
Engage and inspire diverse audiences and communities.
Support artistic development and creative talent.
Strengthen the venue's role as a cultural hub for South East Wales.
Develop partnerships that enhance cultural, social and economic impact.
Protect, sustain, and celebrate the unique heritage and identity of Blackwood Miners' Institute.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a landmark cultural venue and help ensure that Blackwood Miners' Institute continues to inspire, entertain, and connect communities for generations to come.
Further information on Sell2Wales, visit: https://www.sell2wales.gov.wales
Be part of the next chapter in the story of Blackwood Miners' Institute.
Job Requirements
The appointed operator will be responsible for full operation of BMI, including:
Venue management, programming, community delivery, audience development, marketing, customer experience and partnership working;
Financial management, income generation, fundraising, staffing, Human Resources, TUPE, workforce development and mobilisation from Council operation; and
Digital systems, data management, compliance, governance, reporting, KPI delivery and stewardship of the Grade II listed building within agreed responsibilities.
Leader of Council, Cllr Jamie Pritchard said: "We want to ensure we can secure a bright new future for this historic venue, without the need for high levels of public subsidy. A new operator model will allow greater opportunity to attract grant funding which the council cannot access, so this is a positive step forward and we hope progress will be made to secure a new operator for the future."
Job Responsibilities
The Operator shall manage and operate Blackwood Miners' Institute under a Services Concession Contract in accordance with the requirements and specifications set out in the Invitation to Tender.
The Council will continue to act as landlord and custodian of the building, retaining oversight of the asset and responsibility for major structural maintenance, and the long-term stewardship of the listed heritage property.
The successful operator will be responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of the venue and the equipment necessary for its operation. CCBC encourages them to work in partnership around investment, development and funding opportunities to sustain and develop BMI.
The successful operator will be responsible for the day-to-day running and operation of the Blackwood Miners' Institute , including artistic programming, staffing, audience development, commercial activity and day-to-day management.
Useful Links
Job Overview
- Job Title: Arts Centre Operator
- Salary: £50k+
- Hours: Full time
- Role: Curation
- Contract: Contract
- Closing date: Wed, 18 Nov 2026
- Location: Wales | view on Google Maps
Job: Arts Centre Operator
Job: Arts Centre Operator
Organisation: Blackwood Miners Institute
Postcode: NP12 1BB
How to Apply
Via Sell2Wales: https://www.sell2wales.gov.wales/search/show/search_view.aspx?ID=SEP662981
Deadline 12 noon on Wednesday 18th November
- Contact name: Helen Sellwood
- Contact email: [email protected]
About Blackwood Miners Institute
Blackwood Miners’ Institute is a historic arts and cultural venue at the heart of the community in Blackwood. Originally established through the efforts of local miners, it has evolved into a vibrant centre for theatre, live music, comedy, film, community events, learning and participation activities. The Institute welcomes thousands of visitors each year, providing high-quality cultural experiences, supporting creativity, and contributing to the social, educational and economic wellbeing of the