Arts and culture institutions

DUX acts as an intermediary between executives in the arts and culture sector and organisations such as museums, theatres and music institutions. Are you looking for qualified directors or senior professionals on a board or management level? And do you want an experienced consultant and sparring partner who can map out your requirements and take the administration off your hands? Or are you looking for a position yourself? Then please feel free to contact us without any obligation to discuss what you are looking for.

Developments within the arts and culture sector

The art and culture sector is in a state of constant change. The coronavirus has brought about lasting changes. Museums, theatres and music institutions are now dealing with other kinds of revenue streams and have to adapt their range of offerings and programmes accordingly. For museums, large groups of foreign tourists are visiting less often. Theatres have to take into account fewer visitors in the halls. Furthermore, digitisation (for example new methods of ticket sales) has an influence on the business operations of the institutions.

The artistic side also needs to be adjusted to modern-day demands. Inclusiveness and diversity are important factors here. The public debate is ongoing as to what the museum and the stage can offer. Arts and culture institutions fill a social role and will increasingly look to work together with other institutions in the future. This also brings into play new target groups.

New requirements for professionals and executives

These developments are reflected in the required competencies of the professionals and directors in the cultural sector. It requires new forms of leadership. This includes qualities such as flexibility, digital skills, ability to listen, intuition, a broad and inclusive view, a curious attitude and a creative way of thinking.

For clients, this means they look at potential candidates differently. And sometimes have to adjust their requirements to ensure diversity and inclusiveness in their organisations. They have to take into account a different, more diverse setup for their teams. For example, experience less of a factor when you are looking to refresh the existing setup. That requires a review of what is important. We are happy to support and advise you in that process.

Type of positions

In addition to excellent executives (board members, directors and boards of directors), qualified professionals are crucial for any strong organisation. They are the experts in their field who shape the new developments: from digitisation to other ways of generating income and other programming. In addition to fundraisers and communication specialists, digital marketers are increasingly sought after these days. However, positions such as project leader, programme manager, consultant and head of operations and finance also remain as important as ever.

In the arts and culture sector, the following positions are sought after: board members, fundraisers, marketers, online specialists, programme managers and operational managers, finance and operations.

Specialists from outside the non profit sector

Specialists within, but especially also from outside, the non profit sector often have the relevant skills for the ever-evolving organisations in art and culture. A marketeer from the business world can be a valuable addition to a cultural institution. With our network inside and outside the non profit sector, we know how to find the best candidates for your assignment. Whether it concerns a permanent position or temporary assignments (interim or substitute). Our personal approach is our added value. Throughout the whole process, we’ll be by your side to guide and advise you. We analyse the key issues behind your questions, offer advice on the selection of candidates and act as a sparring partner for both you and the candidate, throughout the entire process.

Are you looking for qualified directors or senior professionals on a board or management level?

And do you want an experienced consultant and sparring partner who can map out your requirements and take the administration off your hands? Or are you looking for a position yourself? Then please feel free to contact us without any obligation to discuss your requirements.

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Successful placement

Anne de Haij, Director

Stedelijk Museum Schiedam

Since 1 February 2021, Anne has been the director of the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam. “An innovative young woman with a contemporary vision who really makes a difference in the museum world, around social themes such as diversity and inclusion”, said Jitteke Runia, senior partner, who oversaw the mediation process from DUX.

De Haij reflects on a pleasant process via DUX. ”From the first interaction to the placement and the genuine engagement after the process had been wrapped up. Jitteke guided coached me during our meetings and conversations. Thanks in part to her feedback, I approached each new round of interviews very well prepared and full of confidence.”

Jitteke coached me during the process.

Pascal Visee, head of the supervisory board, is also happy with the guidance DUX provided. DUX did a thorough preselection and was able to present us with a wealth of suitable candidates. After that, we were guided very well through the process of making a shortlist and through the final selection procedure on the basis of interviews (which were guided by DUX). A professional and pleasurable process, and also very efficient and down-to-earth.”

A professional and pleasurable process, and also very efficient and down-to-earth.”