Please note Christie's is posting this job on behalf of Art History Link-Up The Company Fewer than 1% of state schools offer History of Art A level yet the creative industries provided 2.4 million jobs and generated over £126 billion in 2022[1]. We believe that art history shouldn’t belong to just the handful of people who currently have the opportunity to study it, but that every young person, regardless of background, should be able to enjoy and benefit from our rich visual culture AHLU is a registered charity offering free courses for state students since 2016. Prior to the pandemic our ‘Art History for Everyone’ free Saturday Art History A Level and EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) classes were based at the National Gallery and the Wallace Collection. We moved our classes online as a result of the pandemic with great success. Since September 2022 AHLU has been offering hybrid courses at the Courtauld Institute, Somerset House: https://courtauld.ac.uk/take-part/schools/art-history-link-up/ AHLU has taught art history to over 500 students from over 300 schools across the UK. Our alumni are now studying art history at Russell Group universities across the UK, including the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge, and the Courtauld Institute. Since 2022 we’ve been piloting, developing and expanding courses for younger secondary age students, in London and beyond. In 2024 onwards, we are piloting Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) courses, a student-directed qualification equivalent to up to half a GCSE, in collaboration with the Courtauld, Waddesdon Manor, and schools and centres in and outside London. We are working with an external evaluation consultant to ensure we record best practice and outcomes in our work. We are working with communications consultant, Nadine Thompson, to deliver our ‘art history for everyone’ communications strategy and media campaign as we move towards our tenth anniversary in 2026. We know we’re making a difference. In stark contrast to sector norms, over half our students are from minority ethnic or widening participation backgrounds. Our students are vocal about the difference AHLU has made to them - opening up the world of the visual arts, helping them get a recognised qualification, or even directing them towards the arts sector in their future careers. Why This Role Matters The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will play a crucial role in the strategic and operational leadership of Art History Link-Up. Reporting directly to the Founder & CEO, the COO will be responsible for overseeing the charity's day-to-day operations, ensuring that the organisation runs smoothly and efficiently, in addition to supporting capacity build. This role will involve working closely with the small team of three employees, managing resources, and driving the successful implementation of the strategic plan for growth. The COO will also act as a key support to the Founder and CEO, Rose Aidin, providing guidance on organisational development and helping to steer the Charity towards its long-term goals. How You'll Make an Impact Operational Leadership Oversee the day-to-day operations of AHLU, ensuring that all activities are aligned with the charity's mission and strategic objectives Implement and manage systems and processes that support the efficient functioning of the organisation. Supervise and support the small team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment. Strategic Planning & Execution Work closely with the Founder & CEO to develop and implement the strategic plan for the growth of AHLU Monitor progress against strategic goals, identifying opportunities for improvement and addressing any challenges that arise Lead on specific projects and initiatives that align with the charity’s growth objectives Financial Management Oversee the charity's financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting Ensure the effective management of resources to support the charity's activities and growth Work with the Founder & CEO to develop fundraising strategies and support donor engagement Governance & Compliance Ensure that AHLU adheres to all relevant legal and regulatory requirements. Support the Founder & CEO in maintaining effective governance practices and reporting to the Board of Trustees. Oversee the development and implementation of policies and procedures that ensure the charity's compliance with regulations and best practice. Stakeholder Engagement Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including partners, funders, alumni students, and the wider community. Represent AHLU at external events and meetings, promoting the charity's mission and activities. Collaborate with the Founder and CEO on communications and public relations efforts. What you’ll bring to the team Essential: Proven experience in a senior operational role, preferably within the charity or education sector. Strong strategic thinking and planning skills, with a track record of successfully implementing growth strategies. Excellent financial management skills, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Ability to manage multiple projects and workstreams simultaneously, with strong organisational skills. Leadership experience, with the ability to inspire and manage a small team. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. Knowledge of governance and compliance requirements within the charity sector. Desirable: Passion for art history and education, with an understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sector. Experience in fundraising and donor management. Familiarity with digital tools and platforms that can support the charity's operations and growth. Salary: Up to £50,000 Art History Link-Up is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Our policies are available on our website and upon request. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be completed on the successful applicant. Closing Date: 27th October LI-Hybrid