Help shape the future of Wales's national conservatoire

Here for the arts, Wales, the future

The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama is seeking an exceptional individual to become its next Chair.

As Wales's national conservatoire, RWCMD nurtures the next generation of performers, creators, arts leaders and cultural innovators. Home to more 900 students from over 40 countries and presenting Wales's largest public arts programme, the College plays a vital role in the cultural, educational and economic life of Wales and beyond.

This is a unique opportunity to lead the Board of one of Wales's most important cultural institutions at an exciting moment in its development. Building on strong foundations, enhanced financial resilience, exciting new initiatives including the redevelopment of Cardiff's Old Library, and growing ambitions for widening access and engagement across Wales, the next Chair will help guide the College through its next chapter.

Working closely with the Principal, Board and University of South Wales Group, the Chair will provide strategic leadership, champion the College’s ambitious vision, ensure the highest standards of governance and help strengthen RWCMD's impact across Wales and beyond.

We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who bring:

• Significant board-level leadership and governance experience
• Strong chairing, influencing and relationship-building skills
• Strategic insight and sound judgement
• A commitment to inclusion, integrity and public value
• An appreciation of the performing arts, creative industries and educational excellence
• The ability to engage confidently with stakeholders at regional, national and international levels

This is an unremunerated role (reasonable expenses paid) for an initial three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment. The role requires attendance at Board meetings, College events and regular engagement with the Principal and key stakeholders.

If you are inspired by the power of the arts to transform lives and communities, and would like to help shape the future of one of the UK's leading conservatoires, we would be delighted to hear from you.

How to apply

​​​​​​For an informal discussion and a copy of the Candidate Pack, please contact the Goodson Thomas team on 029 2167 4422 or info@goodsonthomas.com.

To apply, please submit your CV and Covering letter via the 'Apply now' button below.

Application deadline: 12pm, 21 September 2026
Final panel interviews: w/c 5 October 2026