The Copyright Licensing Agency Ltd (CLA) is a non profit-making company that protects the interests of rights holders by granting licences to business, education and government organisations for photocopying/scanning books and periodicals. Owned by the Authors' Licensing and Collecting Society (ALCS) and the Publishers Licensing Society (PLS), CLA's remit also covers artistic works through the Design and Artists Copyright Society (DACS). Through these bodies, CLA pays artists, authors and publishers their share of licence fees for copying. The business has around 80 staff and collects revenues of c.£45m.

 

Changes in the world of creative media, particularly driven by the Internet and the growth of digital publishing, present CLA with complex challenges as well as considerable opportunities.

 

This wide-ranging and intellectually stimulating leadership role will be pivotal in determining CLA's future success and influence. Working closely with the Board and newly-appointed independent Chair - and in collaboration with CLA's owners/other stakeholders - you will evaluate new opportunities for the business and lead the development and implementation of future strategy. You will also ensure that the executive team and staff deliver a strong commercial and operational performance to maximise the contribution of the core business. Critically, you will champion the continuing relevance and importance of intellectual property and rights holders' interests; you must build effective relationships within, and knowledge of, the reproduction rights sector.

 

Strong candidates for this exacting role will combine first-class managerial skills, gained at or near board level, with demonstrable strategic and commercial acumen. Whilst knowledge of the information or publishing sectors might be an advantage, it is vital for the new CEO to have a proven track record of leading business improvement and development. The individual should also be a confident, credible and persuasive advocate, with political nous and excellent communication skills.

 

Please send your CV and covering letter (including remuneration details) in confidence to ps4@normanbroadbent.com, quoting reference 244268.

 

Closing date for applications: 17 November 2006.