The significant absence of managers from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds employed in leading, decision-making positions in cultural institutions across the UK is a widely acknowledged issue of the arts and cultural sectors.
Employment for the vast majority of people from black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds in the arts and cultural sectors tend not to be in positions where policy and strategy, either artistic or managerial is conceived, developed and directed. Rather, people from minority ethnic backgrounds working in arts and culture are more likely to be found at service or junior levels, such as in catering, security or administration.
A number of reports have been written in recent years documenting and detailing the difficulties faced by individuals from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds seeking to move beyond "traditional" employment sectors, positions and levels. Their efforts to change their area of employment or progress up the career ladder is hampered by institutional inertia in the sectors in which they work.
Powerbrokers is based on the conviction that it is essential that people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds are fully represented throughout the Cultural Leadership Programme. In addition, there is need for targeted interventions to address areas of under-representation.
Powerbrokers will address three key areas:
. Rising to, and raising the aspirations of future black, Asian and minority ethnic leaders and equipping them with the skills and knowledge to succeed
. Fast-track development of black, Asian and minority ethnic leaders on the cusp of high-level career success
. Raising the profile of existing black, Asian and minority ethnic leaders, celebrating their success and articulating their vision for future change
