Executive Director

About the Role

The Executive Director provides strategic, operational and financial leadership for Phoenix Theatre Blyth, working with the Board to ensure sustainability, growth, governance, audience development, fundraising, partnerships and strong community engagement across the North-East.

The Phoenix Theatre Blyth is looking to appoint an ambitious, inspiring and commercially-minded individual to lead and take the organisation to the next exciting stage of its development. As a vibrant 299-seat venue at the heart of the community, we present an annual programme of professional touring productions, live music, family entertainment, community performance and our much-loved annual pantomime. We are proud of our heritage and ambitious about our future.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced leader who combines strategic vision with strong business acumen and a passion for the arts. Reporting directly to the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director will provide overall leadership of the organisation, ensuring the Phoenix Theatre continues to thrive artistically, financially and operationally. You will lead a dedicated staff team and an outstanding group of volunteers, while developing new audiences, strengthening partnerships and securing the theatre’s long-term sustainability.

To learn more about this opportunity, please see the attached job pack:

Executive Director job pack (PDF)

Job requirements

• Be an exceptional leader with the vision, commercial awareness and passion to ensure Phoenix Theatre Blyth continues to thrive.
• At least 5 years’ relevant senior management experience in theatre, arts, culture or a related sector.
• Proven experience in strategic planning, finance, people management and operations.
• Experience of programming, income generation, fundraising and partnership development.
• Strong leadership, communication, relationship-building and commercial skills.
• Ability to manage budgets, resources and organisational priorities.
• Understanding of governance, compliance and charitable responsibilities.
• Degree-level qualification or equivalent professional experience.
• Evidence of continuing professional development.

Desirable experience includes senior leadership in theatre or culture, fundraising, grant applications, audience development. The candidate should demonstrate integrity, sound judgement, creativity and commitment to inclusion and engagement.

Responsibilities

The Executive Director will provide strategic and financial leadership for Phoenix Theatre Blyth, reporting to the Board of Trustees.

• Deliver strategic objectives, vision and long-term sustainability.
• Lead a financially sustainable programme of live entertainment, cinema and community work.
• Manage budgets, financial performance, resources and income generation.
• Lead fundraising, grants, sponsorship and commercial development.
• Oversee buildings, health and safety, licensing, accessibility, technical operations and capital improvements.
• Recruit, lead and develop staff and volunteers, promoting an inclusive workplace.
• Develop audiences, marketing, digital engagement and the Phoenix brand.
• Ensure governance, compliance, safeguarding and risk management.
• Build relationships with Trustees, artists, audiences, funders, businesses and community partners.
• Represent the Theatre regionally and nationally, strengthening community impact.

How to Apply

Applications should either be emailed to recruitment@thephoenixtheatre.org.uk or posted to:

Recruitment
The Phoenix Theatre
37a Beaconsfield Street
Blyth
Northumberland
NE24 2DS