Working with UKRI Arts and Humanities Research Council we commissioned a detailed research project examining how the world of work has changed and the impact of these changes for cultural leaders.  Metro Dynamics were recruited to undertake the research which incorporated: literature reviews; an in-depth sector-facing survey; and cross-sector interviews. 

Data from the 426 survey responses was assessed by the Metro Dynamics team and, alongside learning from other sectors, has been pulled into two reports. The research posted five key questions that should be a part of future conversations:

• How can leaders and organisations deploy collaborative strategic leadership that better reflects the sector’s innately collaborative artistic and cultural leadership?
• How can the sector create more opportunities to learn from other sectors and highlight the places where it is leading the way?
• How can the sector create more opportunities for engagement with technology and the experimentation (and thus risk) which is necessary?
• How can the sector articulate its purpose and potential to new and existing partners and be in the right policy place at the right time?
• How can a sector with infrastructure, art forms and institutions to protect and preserve, prioritise people?

The final research report ‘Cultural Leadership in a Changing World of Work: research paper’ – provides a deep-dive into the research findings, assessing qualitative and quantitative data to form a rich body of evidence. Findings from this research has informed the work to understand what cultural leaders need and what can be done to support them as they continue to navigate the complex world of work. The additional summary report below presents a short-read summary of the research.

From January to March 2024, we convened face-to-face gatherings for the culture sector workforce in London, Birmingham and Leeds, as well as meetings online, including specific focus groups for Global Majority Leaders and D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent leaders.  In partnerships with Arts Council England, the Leadership Now Assemblies engaged a total of 356 sector leaders to discuss issues, exchange ideas and engage in shared solution-finding.

A summary of findings from the Assemblies is included in the ‘Leadership Now: Insights Report’. The report examines the wide range of themes covered in the discussions, including: advocacy; AI; business models; environmental sustainability; Equity & Justice; collaboration; recruitment and retention; boards; and wellbeing.