Sarabande is a charity established by the late Lee Alexander McQueen to support creative talent across all disciplines in their early stages of creative and commercial development. It does this through the provision of scholarships, heavily subsidised artist studios, mentoring and a pioneering public events and education programme.
Sarabande has artistic studio locations in both N1 and N17, and is looking to hire a responsible and self-motivated Studio Manager to oversee operations and support the Foundation’s mission in the N17 location, contributing to the Sarabande artistic community in Tottenham. This is a key role in the Foundation and involves working closely with the CEO and external advisors.
The role will combine operations and development with a high level of involvement with our artist community and creative initiatives at both N1 and N17 locations.
Detailed responsibilities will include:
Office and studio management
– Manage day-to-day operations of a small but busy office, ensuring an exceptional and clean, presentable environment (including studio complex and event space) at all times.
– Manage and negotiate contracts with suppliers and contractors.
– Oversee management of Sarabande’s CRM database, maintaining and updating contacts for all stakeholders, artists and patrons.
– Prepare reports on Sarabande activities, including major exhibitions and special projects.
– Work with the CEO on Sarabande’s scholarships programme.
– Oversee the annual studio open call, managing artist intake, studio allocations, and onboarding.
– Maintain relationships with Sarabande’s network of professional mentors and implement a mentoring schedule for studio residents.
– Ensuring compliant management of offices across both teams, including site safety & holiday allowance.
Tottenham operations
– Steer Sarabande’s move to a new site in Tottenham, ensuring a smooth and timely transition for artists and staff.
– Support the Programme & Outreach Officer to deliver project outcomes linked to National Lottery funding.
Development
– Research, coordinate and lead professional tours of the studios across both sites.
– Cultivate and maintain relationships with potential supporters and stakeholders, identifying opportunities for sponsorship and fundraising
– Manage relationships with existing N17 partners, advocating for Sarabande to ensure that its values, criteria and ethos are upheld.
– Identify and apply for funding opportunities for Sarabande.
– Develop and manage opportunities for commercial hire of buildings
Artist liaison & Events Production
– Serve as the primary point of contact for all Tottenham alumni, manage inter-artist studio relationships when required.
– Provide support for Sarabande and artist – led exhibitions, events and commercial projects as needed.
– Share project management responsibilities for fundraising events and other revenue streams, including advertising and merchandise sales.
Candidate profile
The ideal candidate will possess a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and creative thinking, along with exceptional organsiational skills and the ability to balance short and long-term objectives. Strong people management and communication skills are essential, as is a resilient, can-do attitude. This senior role within a forward-thinking and dynamic organisation requires an individual capable of engaging with top-level partners globally and ensuring the exceptional delivery of all projects, partnerships and events.
This position is well suited to someone with experience in a creatively led business. Please note that some evening and weekend work may be required, particularly during events.
Closing date: Midnight on 22nd February 2026 Start date: April 2026
Salary: DOE (depending on experience)
This is a full-time position. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Sarabande is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds.
To apply, please submit a CV, portfolio, and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to [email protected] with the subject line: “Studio Manager at Sarabande Tottenham Application.”
