Chair of the Rome Advisory Committee

Play a key role in the Keats-Shelley Memorial Association as Chair of the Rome Advisory Committee, supporting the preservation and development of the Keats-Shelley House and its collections.

Location: Rome

Time commitment: c.1 – 2 days per month

Applications close: Friday 11th September 2026

About the Keats-Shelley Memorial Association

The Keats-Shelley Memorial Association (KSMA) was established in 1903 to support the Keats-Shelley House at 26 Piazza di Spagna, Rome — the historic Palazzo where John Keats died in 1821. Today, it stands as a celebrated museum housing one of the world’s most extensive collections of memorabilia, letters and paintings related to Keats, Shelley and their circle.

As an independent UK charity, KSMA relies primarily on admissions, memberships and donations to maintain the House and its world-class collections. Beyond its physical presence in Rome, the Association plays a vital role in Anglo-Italian cultural relations through a diverse range of activities.

About the role

The Chair of the Rome Advisory Committee provides leadership to the Committee and acts, alongside the Director, as a vital link to the UK Board of Trustees, supporting the Association’s charitable objectives in Italy.

This is an opportunity to support the Director and the creative ambitions of the Association, providing in-person support and helping the organisation build even stronger connections and networks within Rome and the wider region.

The Committee exists to support the Museum Director by offering considered, expert advice on matters where external perspective, specialist knowledge, or strategic reflection is beneficial. The Rome Chair only holds executive responsibility through their appointment of a Trustee on the board of the UK charity.

The Rome Committee is advisory only, with the focus of the Chair role being on governance, strategic support and high-level liaison.

Accountability

• The Rome Chair is accountable to the UK Board of Trustees.
• The Rome Chair reports to the Board on the activities, advice and recommendations of the Rome Advisory Committee.
• The Chair works closely with the Director of the Museum and reports to the UK Chair.

Who we are looking for

The Rome Chair must live in and be based in Rome and be a fluent Italian speaker.

We are looking for a dedicated individual with a clear passion for the works of the Romantic poets and a commitment to preserving their legacy. The ideal candidate will possess the professional standing and diplomacy required to represent the Association effectively in international circles.

Skills and experience:

• Proven leadership: Experience chairing boards or high-level committees, demonstrating sound judgment and the ability to build consensus.
• Strategic vision: Ability to provide credible strategic advice relevant to KSMA’s cultural and heritage mission.
• Communication skills: Exceptional facilitation and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Governance expertise: A strong understanding of advisory committee practices and the responsibilities associated with charity governance.
• Cultural knowledge: Knowledge of the Italian cultural context or experience working internationally is highly advantageous.
• Ambassadorial experience: Comfortable in a public-facing role, with the ability to bring value through connections in diplomatic, government, or financial circles.

Candidates must be able to devote the necessary time, including travel between the UK and Rome and have arrangements to guarantee their presence in Italy.

Please click on the link to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the role and how to apply.

Applications for this role close on Friday 11th September 2026.