South Asian arts organisation on the lookout for new chair

Ranjit Sondhi, chair of Birmingham 's Sampad Arts for a remarkable 25 years, is stepping down - and the cultural charity is seeking a successor to fill his shoes.

The South Asian Arts and Heritage group is looking to recruit a new chair of their volunteer Board of Trustees to oversee strategy and execution.

The arts charity - based at the Midlands Arts Centre in Cannon Hill Park - says it is looking for a successor “who will be an advocate and ambassador for Sampad and give their time and expertise to be a supportive and critical friend. ”

The group added: “The role demands a specific skill set, including a strong familiarity with South Asian or intercultural Arts and Culture, an active commitment to inclusion, equal opportunities and anti-racism, and to lead with strategic vision and independent judgement. ”

Piali Ray, artistic director and CEO, said: “Our current Chair of the Board, Ranjit Sondhi CBE, has had an immeasurable impact on the thirty year success of Sampad and we are incredibly grateful for the time he has given to our organisation.

“We are looking for someone creative, diligent and someone with exceptional leadership and diplomacy skills. This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for someone to contribute to how we move forward as a charity. ”

Sabra Khan, executive director for Sampad, added: “We are a diverse led organisation committed to equal opportunities so we aim to reflect this with a diverse board. We are looking for an exceptional candidate willing to take on this voluntary position who will lead Sampad into our ambitious and exciting next chapter. ”

Sampad, which is supported by Arts Council England and Birmingham City Council, are working with independent arts consultant Helga Henry. Anybody interested in applying for the role of Chair but would like an informal conversation first should contact Helga.

Full details of the application process can be found on Sampad 's website.