Job Introduction
If you’re ready to lead one of the UK’s most ambitious and inclusive music services, we’d love to hear from you.
The Role:
Are you an inspiring leader with a passion for music education and a strong track record in service management?
Hampshire Music Service (HMS) is one of the largest and most respected music services in the UK, reaching over 30,000 children and young people annually. We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Head of Service to lead HMS and the Hampshire Music Education Hub into its next chapter.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of music education across Hampshire, ensuring high-quality, inclusive, and financially sustainable provision that supports the personal, academic, and cultural development of children and young people.
What you’ll do:
- Leading the strategic direction of HMS and the Hampshire Music Education Hub, aligning with national and local priorities.
- Managing the service as a self-funding traded entity, with responsibility for financial planning, income generation, and operational delivery.
- Inspiring and developing a large team of music educators and managers, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence.
- Championing equity and inclusion, ensuring access to music for all children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Building strong partnerships with schools, cultural organisations, funders, and community stakeholders.
- Representing Hampshire at regional and national forums, advocating for the value of music education.
What we’re looking for:
- Proven experience in leading large-scale education or cultural services, ideally within a traded or self-funded model.
- Strong financial acumen and operational management skills.
- A deep understanding of the music education landscape, including the National Plan for Music Education.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- A commitment to inclusion, creativity, and continuous improvement.
Why join us?
- Be part of a service with a national reputation for excellence and innovation.
- Work in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
- Enjoy flexible working arrangements and a strong focus on wellbeing.
- Access to professional development and leadership opportunities.
Safer Recruitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
