YPIA is delighted to welcome Amanda Smethurst, a past Clore Leadership Programme Fellow and workshop leader, to facilitate a workshop on leadership in the arts.

Amanda will identify the skills needed to lead effectively, and will also discuss ways that you can form a better understanding of leadership styles that you may be experiencing now. By working in small discussion groups she will help you pinpoint what you need to develop on an individual basis. Finally, giving us some insight into her work as an arts industry head-hunter, Amanda will discuss what she looks for in a prospective arts organisation executive, and the kind of skills you can be working to develop now in order to be that person in the future.

Amanda has worked within the arts and public sectors for over 25 years, in a range of leadership roles from Director of an arts organisation, Manager of an arts service within local government and at Arts Council England as Director, London, and was a Fellow on the Clore Leadership Programme in 2008-2009. She has also held a number of non-executive or board appointments and is currently the Chair of UP Projects, a contemporary public arts organisation, and on the board of 64 Million Artists.

A theme that has run through Amanda's career is her enjoyment of working with organisations and individuals to support their development. This is something she has continued to do since 2010, when she became a freelance consultant, coach and facilitator with a particular focus on organisational development and strategic planning within the cultural sector, holding a passion for helping people to understand what makes their heart sing. Amanda also pursues these themes through her work as an executive search consultant recruiting for senior leadership positions in the arts.

Originally trained as a fine artist, she is still keen to retain her creative practice and enjoys exploring many mediums – including ceramics, printmaking, textiles and even gardening – all of which make her heart sing.

A limited number of tickets are available for this event, so book now to avoid disappointment. Please note that access to this event will be only for those who have booked online in advance.