As the transformation of The Piece Hall gathers pace, a rare opportunity has opened up for an exceptional individual to lead the passionate and experienced team already in place to run the development, and oversee its transition into a world class heritage destination.
The search is now on for a new Chair of The Piece Hall Trust, to take over when the existing Chair, Wayne Bowser, steps down, at the end of this year. During his three-year tenure Wayne has built a strong team of highly skilled individuals, including Chief Executive, Sam Mason, who will run The Piece Hall when it opens next year. He now looks to pass on the baton to a new Chair, with experience of leading a significant heritage or cultural attraction who is excited by the opportunity to head up the fully operational Piece Hall, helping it to fulfil the Trustees’ ambitions to deliver one of the top visitor attractions in the country.
Comments Wayne:
It was always my intention to step down after three years. Although I’m sad to leave the brilliantly committed and capable team we’ve now got in place, it feels like the right time to step back, having paved the way for the next Chair who will have time to embed themselves ahead of The Piece Hall opening next year.
We have developed a robust business plan and, as the building shifts from restoration to cultural facility, we are looking for someone who can bring experience of the sector to team. It’s been an absolute privilege to have led the team this far and I’m hopeful that we will attract someone of significant standing for the role.
The renovation of the Grade I listed Piece Hall, which has been made possible due to funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Calderdale Council, is now well underway and construction is entering its final phases. The monumental structure and immense courtyard are being restored and transformed into a modern heritage, business, leisure and cultural destination; with a state-of-the-art interpretation and learning centre, a new east extension and a re-designed piazza.
The successful candidate will head up the growing Piece Hall Trust team, which is responsible for breathing new life into this most significant public asset, realising an exciting new chapter and ensuring its long-term survival and continued preservation.
Adds Chief Executive, Sam Mason:
We thank Wayne for his commitment and direction over the last three years and wish him all the very best for the future, as well as more time to enjoy spending with his young family.
Now that we’re entering the final stages in the life-cycle of this monumental redevelopment project, it’s the ideal time for a new Chair of the Trustees to join the team. This must be one of the most exciting opportunities for a senior board position in the country.
Genuinely, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a dynamic individual to play a key role in shaping an exciting new era for The Piece Hall, one which celebrates its legacy as a vital part of our trade and industrial history whilst creating a new cultural destination on a world stage.
Full details of the role specification are available on www.thepiecehall.co.uk/jobs(external link). Deadline for expression of interest is 12noon, Monday 9 January 2017.