What is the Young Leaders on Arts Boards programme?
The Young Leaders on Arts Boards programme —which is proudly supported by A&L Goodbody Northern Ireland - places up-and-coming talent onto the boards of local arts charities. We provide practical, hands-on strategic leadership experience, training, and support to equip Young Leaders aged 21- 35, with the skills to succeed. Through the programme you will build a network of new connections and we will work closely with you, discussing your personal passions and career goals, to ensure that you are placed in the right organisation, where you can work with maximum personal impact.
If you are aged 35+ and are more established in your career, we also have a Business Leaders on Arts Boards Programme.
Why should you consider joining?
You should join because:
• You have a passion for the arts, and a desire to work with personal impact to help the NI cultural sector thrive
• You want to develop your leadership skills in a totally different, creative environment
• You want to gain non-executive board experience
• Peers in your industry who have participated all agree the experience has been profoundly enjoyable and rewarding
• You want to extend your network and form relationships with likeminded individuals
• Supporting the local arts and culture sector is a crucial part of ensuring that Northern Ireland is an attractive and enjoyable place to live, work and play, both now and in the future.
The training sessions were first-class and provided a sound understanding of good governance as well as the financial and legal requirements of being a non-executive board member. The facilitators created a safe space to ask questions and encouraged discussion among participants, which offered good opportunities for peer learning.
What is included?
• A one-to-one diagnostic session with the A&BNI team. This consultation will discuss your personal passions and career objectives, capturing SMART data to enable successful board placement.
• Four Good Governance training sessions to provide an introduction to the arts sector and insight into strategies for successful governance, clearly outlining the legal and moral requirements placed upon a non-executive board member. Specifically developed for this initiative, this training allows for peer-to-peer learning and develops confidence to ensure participants engage fully in board business. Training facilitated by A&L Goodbody Northern Ireland LLP, alongside sessions from Harbison Mulholland and Arts & Business NI.
• Facilitated opportunities to join the board of an arts or cultural organisation across Northern Ireland.
• Ongoing support, advice and guidance on governance, board development and changes in charity law for the duration of your board term from the team at Arts & Business NI.
• Access to a full year’s calendar of A&BNI’s cultural and networking events, designed to allow you to form connections and build your business and art sector knowledge. You will be invited to the annual A&BNI Governance Conference, which will include a dedicated break out session for Young Leaders on Arts Boards.
The Young Leaders on Arts Boards programme has been fundamental to my success in a leadership role, it’s widened my horizons, introduced me to new people, experiences and development opportunities.
Am I eligible?
• Applicants will be aged between 21 and 35.
• Applicants will have leadership experience which may include project management.
• Applicants will be located in Northern Ireland.
Costs
Business members of Arts & Business NI can access a preferential rate to participate in our Young Leaders on Arts Boards programme - please speak to us about business membership.
- £650 + VAT per participant (Arts & Business NI Member rate)
- £750+ VAT per participant (non - A&BNI Member rate)
Costs are payable only upon acceptance into the programme.
How Do I Apply?
Please submit your completed form along with your CV to info@artsandbusinessni.org.uk by 5pm on Fri 18th July 2025. Successful applicants will be notified and invited to interview in August 2025. If you have any questions or queries please contact m.mckervey@artsandbusinessni.org.uk.
I would highly recommend the programme to anyone with a passion for arts and culture and interested in contributing to a local organisation by becoming a non-executive board member. I had a fantastic experience and really enjoyed connecting with individuals from different sectors that shared similar values and ambitions.
Funders & Supporters
The Leaders on Arts Board programme is proudly supported by A&L Goodbody Northern Ireland LLP
This programme is subsidised by our principal funder Arts Council of Northern Ireland 
Our Funders & Partners
Arts & Business NI is generously supported by The Arts Council of Northern Ireland.
