The Friends of Leighton House

The Friends of Leighton House, established in 1969, is an independent charity dedicated to supporting two of London’s most remarkable historic house museums: Leighton House and Sambourne House. Leighton House, the former home and studio of Victorian artist Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830–96), is celebrated for its extraordinary combination of Victorian architecture, design, and art, while Sambourne House preserves the home of Punch cartoonist Edward Linley Sambourne (1844–1910). The Friends play a critical enabling role, fundraising, advocating, and supporting learning, exhibitions, and capital projects, ensuring these unique cultural assets remain vibrant and accessible for present and future generations.

This is an exciting moment to lead the Friends as Chair. Following a period of significant achievement, including the award-winning £9.6m refurbishment of Leighton House and the expansion of outreach and learning programmes, the Friends are seeking strategic leadership to build on this momentum and solid foundations. The role offers the opportunity to shape the charity’s future, further strengthen relationships with the museums and local authority, and guide the Friends in supporting the long-term sustainability and resilience of both historic houses with fresh vision and energy. This is a chance to make a lasting impact on London’s cultural landscape and to champion the arts and heritage in a time of evolving financial and social challenges.

The successful candidate will bring strategic vision, leadership experience, and a passion for the arts and heritage sector. They will be an effective ambassador for the museums, able to engage philanthropic and foundation networks, inspire and grow membership, and build collaborative relationships with trustees, museum staff, and local authority partners. A strong understanding of governance, accountability, and charity operations is essential, alongside excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Above all, the Chair will be committed to ensuring the Friends continue to flourish, supporting Leighton House and Sambourne House for the enjoyment and enrichment of all.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Friends of Leighton House on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference PBBXEA. Alternatively email Belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on Monday 15^th December.

Image: Narcissus Hall view from The Arab Hall, Leighton House ©RBKC.Image Dirk Lindner