Chief Executive Candidate Brief: Cockpit, A Creative Arts Incubator.pdf

Chief Executive, Cockpit

About Cockpit:

Cockpit is a renowned registered charity and top 100 social enterprise, providing dedicated studio space and business support to 166 skilled craft makers across two locations in Bloomsbury and Deptford Creek. Founded over thirty years ago, it fosters creativity, artistry, and the hand-made tradition.

Mission & Values:

Making a Better World: Cockpit believes in the transformative power of making and champions diverse forms of creative expression.
Inclusivity & Diversity: A core value is fostering an inclusive environment where all backgrounds and identities are celebrated, reflecting Cockpit's commitment to social justice.

Key Activities & Achievements:

Operates as a social enterprise incubator for emerging craft businesses.
Provides business advice, workshops, mentoring, and access to the public through Open Studios and school visits.
Represents makers at national levels and collaborates with other sector organisations.
Launches the first National Saturday Club for Craft & Making in 2023.
Recently completed a £3.24m redevelopment of its Deptford Creek studio, enhancing maker spaces and community facilities.

Ambition:

Cockpit aims to:

Open up professional craft careers to all talented individuals.
Address systemic barriers to access and opportunity.
Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Cockpit community and beyond.
Continuously evolve its understanding and practices regarding diversity & inclusion.

Key Challenges:

The successful candidate will be tasked with leading Cockpit through a period of growth and expansion while navigating:

Maintaining the high quality and selectivity that defines Cockpit's reputation.
Ensuring financial sustainability amidst increasing operational costs.
Deepening and expanding partnerships to support Cockpit's mission.
* Continuously advancing Cockpit’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.