Advertised from 10 March 2026

Role

The Opportunity

Clocktime is a newly established digital museum and registered charity with an ambitious vision: to preserve and promote the extraordinary legacy of British clockmaking and celebrate the craftspeople who continue that tradition today.

We are at an exciting juncture. With our foundations in place, we are now seeking an exceptional leader to take the helm and drive the charity into its next phase of growth. This is a rare opportunity to shape an organisation from the outset, building partnerships, securing funding, and bringing our story to audiences across the UK and beyond.

About Clocktime

From the master clockmakers of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries to the skilled horological craftspeople working in workshops across the UK today, British clockmaking represents an unbroken thread of ingenuity and artistry. Clocktime exists to ensure that story is told, celebrated, and passed on to future generations.

Through digital exhibitions, public programmes, research, and partnerships with makers, museums, and academic institutions, Clocktime brings the Golden Age of British clockmaking to life whilst championing the contemporary craftspeople keeping those traditions alive.

The Role

As Chief Executive, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for the charity, working closely with an engaged Board of Trustees. You will be the public face of Clocktime, building relationships, securing income, and ensuring our programmes reach and inspire the widest possible audience.

Key areas of responsibility include:

• Developing and delivering the charity’s strategic plan in partnership with the Board of Trustees.
• Leading all fundraising activity, including applications to trusts and foundations, grant funding, corporate partnerships, and individual giving.
• Conducting market and audience research to ensure programmes remain relevant and impactful.
• Acting as an ambassador for Clocktime, representing the charity at events, exhibitions, and sector gatherings.
• Building and maintaining relationships with clock and watchmakers, restorers, collectors, museums, and academic institutions.
• Overseeing operational management, financial planning, and governance in partnership with the Board.
• Provide strategic leadership and overall management of the charity through the management and development of staff, contractors, and volunteers as the organisation grows.

About You

We are looking for a driven and creative leader who combines strategic vision with a practical, hands-on approach. You will be comfortable operating in an entrepreneurial environment, equally at ease writing a funding bid as you are speaking at a public event.

You will bring:

• A strong track record in fundraising, income generation, or business development.
• Experience leading or managing an organisation or significant programme of work.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Confidence using research and insight to drive organisational strategy.
• An entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for cultural heritage.

Experience of the heritage, museum, or charity sector is desirable, as is a knowledge of or genuine interest in horology. 

Above all, we want someone who is excited by the mission and committed to building something that matters.

Why Join Us?

• Lead a distinctive and growing charity at a pivotal moment in its development.
• Flexible, hybrid working with a supportive and committed Board of Trustees.
• A role with genuine scope to innovate, shape strategy, and make your mark.
• A chance to champion a fascinating area of British cultural heritage.

Application notes

To apply, please submit a CV and a covering letter of no more than two pages, outlining your interest in the role and how your experience matches the requirements of the post.  

Clocktime cannot provide visa sponsorship. Proof of right to work in the UK will be required prior to appointment.

Applications should be returned to the Board Secretary, Kirsten Burrow, at: secretary@clocktime.co.uk 

Closing date: 9am, Monday 13 April.

First interviews: w/c 27 April (video interview)

For an informal conversation about the role prior to applying, please contact the Board Secretary, Kirsten Burrow at secretary@clocktime.co.uk.

Clocktime is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of background.

www.clocktime.org.uk

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