Andrew Stanford
Bangor,Down
Summary
Senior leader with extensive experience in youth engagement, strategic partnership development, and inclusive programme design. Proven ability to deliver large‑scale, high‑impact youth initiatives, build national and cross‑sector partnerships, and lead teams through complex, multi‑stakeholder projects. Recognised for pioneering inclusive youth strategies replicated across Europe and for delivering exceptional reporting and outcomes for funders. Skilled communicator with strong board‑level experience and a commitment to evidence‑based practice, safeguarding, and organisational values.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work history
Director of Inclusive Theatre
Replay Productions LTD
Belfast, Antrim
2016.12 - Current
- Lead 3–4 large‑scale youth programmes annually, delivering strong social outcomes for children and young people.
- Pioneered inclusive engagement strategies for disabled and non‑disabled young people, recognised as “world class” and replicated across Europe.
- Built and sustained strategic partnerships with schools, community organisations, funders, and statutory bodies.
- Managed six‑figure budgets, established KPIs, and ensured compliance with regulatory and safeguarding requirements.
- Reported directly to charitable and statutory funders, with BBC Children in Need praising reporting as “exceptional”.
- Recruited, trained, and mentored high‑performing teams, fostering a positive, collaborative culture.
- Represented the organisation publicly, including at board level and with government agencies.
- Developed operational initiatives that expanded demographic reach and strengthened organisational impact.
- Introduced new marketing campaigns, boosted brand image.
Event & Production Manager
Self-Employed
Belfast, Antrim
2011.06 - 2016.12
- Delivered large‑scale events through cross‑departmental coordination and strategic planning.
- Led diverse teams, fostering innovation and productivity.
- Managed complex logistics and crisis situations with calm, solution‑focused leadership.
- Built strong relationships with clients, partners, and public audiences.
- Developed detailed project timelines and ensured high‑quality delivery.
Education
Master of Arts - Arts Management
Queen's University
Belfast 09/2016 - 12/2017
Higher National Diploma - Performing Arts
Belfast Metropolitan College
Belfast 09/2009 - 06/2011
Skills
- Visionary thinking
- Strategic youth leadership
- National partnership development
- Inclusive programme design
- Stakeholder engagement & communication
- Project & budget management (six‑figure)
- Monitoring, evaluation & KPI development
- Team leadership, mentoring & talent development
- Safeguarding & regulatory compliance
- Community engagement & public speaking
Accomplishments
- Creative practice recognised as “world class” by Arts Council NI and European partners.
- BBC Children in Need commended reporting as “exceptional” and demonstrating “what a difference it makes to children”.
- Described as a “pioneer” by British Theatre Guide for innovative youth engagement.
Certification
Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Level 3 Certificate - Leadership & Management.
Affiliations
- Sports and Fitness
- Family Life
- Music
- Travel
- Motorcycle Adventuring
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Director of Inclusive Theatre
Replay Productions LTD
2016.12 - Current
Event & Production Manager
Self-Employed
2011.06 - 2016.12
Master of Arts - Arts Management
Queen's University
09/2016 - 12/2017
Higher National Diploma - Performing Arts
Belfast Metropolitan College
09/2009 - 06/2011