Manchester Council Seeks New Culture Chief

0:00On April 27th, Manchester City Council is hunting for a top tier director of culture and creative industries to replace Dave Motri OBE, who's retiring after more than 40 years shaping the city's art scene. Dave stepped into the role full-time in April 2024, following a six-year stint on succondment and folks call this gig the best culture. Job in any UK city. He's been the driving force behind Manchester's creative industry strategy, locking in global events like the Bird Awards, MOBO Awards, WAMX, and the ISPA World Congress. Dave also put the city on the map as the UK's first music city network member and led as guest city at Barcelona's La Mercé Festival last year. Leaders are singing his praises, with Dave calling his 43 years a privilege full of fun and challenges, crediting the community's spirit. The chief executive says Dave transformed the cultural landscape, putting Manchester at the forefront, while the council leader stresses cultures,

1:01role in growth, and community impact. Now they're seeking a heavy hitter with senior experience in culture or creatives, sharp on investments, partnerships, and regeneration projects like. The with and sharp culture hub, and Bridgewater Hall refurb. The job balances big global events with grassroots support for venues and neighborhoods, and I say, Dave bows out on September 30th, 2026, handing over strong foundations to keep Manchester's cultural fire blazing worldwide.