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- Tasks: Lead and support the board in shaping the future of the Royal Exchange Theatre.
- Company: The Royal Exchange Theatre is a celebrated venue known for its ambitious and original productions.
- Benefits: Join a dynamic team, engage with diverse communities, and influence cultural change.
- Why this job: Be part of a visionary leadership team driving artistic excellence and social impact.
- Qualifications: Strong strategic leadership experience and a passion for the arts are essential.
- Other info: Applications close on 11th July 2025; don't miss your chance to make a difference!
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
In 2026, the iconic Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester celebrates 50 years of producing award-winning theatre, creating work that is ambitious in ideas, form and scale. Our breathtaking 759 seat theatre – a unique architectural and democratic space – sits at the centre of a fast-paced, diverse and expanding global city with artists, audiences and communities at the heart of everything we do. Our brave and bold programming, both on and off our stages, has been critically acclaimed and celebrated for its originality, relevance and artistic risk.
As we enter the next chapter of our artistic evolution, led by recently appointed Artistic Director & Co-CEO Selina Cartmell, and as we progress through the appointment of a new Executive Director & Co-CEO, we seek a visionary and dynamic board leader to work with Selina, our new ED, and the wider board and team, helping us shape a future that is artist-centred, collaborative and daring. Our aim is to create a theatre of world-class excellence, a pioneering beacon for cultural and social change. The Royal Exchange will be a passionate theatrical powerhouse for theatre makers, empowering artistic growth through creative collaboration and partnership; nurturing new talent, investing in new ideas and championing artists at all levels to take risks and challenge their own practice, creating an environment for ambitious experimentation.
The Chair will be a lead advocate and ambassador for the Royal Exchange, will lead, support and enable the Board, and will support the highest quality of governance leadership in partnership with the Co-CEOs (Artistic Director and Executive Director). Candidates will have a passion for the arts and bring a strong track record of strategic leadership and good business acumen. They will be excited to engage externally and champion the Royal Exchange with local, regional and national stakeholders and partners and have a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion in alignment with the mission and values of the organisation.
Applications should be received by noon on Friday 11th July 2025.
Contact Detail:
Royal Exchange Theatre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Royal Exchange Theatre's recent productions and initiatives. Understanding their artistic vision and community engagement will help you articulate how your leadership style aligns with their mission during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current and former board members or stakeholders associated with the Royal Exchange. Building these connections can provide valuable insights into the organisation's culture and expectations for the Chair role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in strategic leadership and governance. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams or organisations, particularly in the arts sector, to demonstrate your suitability for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion by highlighting relevant initiatives you've championed in previous roles. This will resonate well with the Royal Exchange's values and mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Chair position at the Royal Exchange Theatre. Familiarise yourself with their mission, values, and recent initiatives to tailor your application accordingly.
Craft a Compelling CV: Highlight your strategic leadership experience and passion for the arts in your CV. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead and advocate for cultural change, ensuring it aligns with the theatre's vision.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Discuss how your background and skills make you an ideal candidate, and express your commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in the arts.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to follow the application instructions provided by Saxton Bampfylde Ltd carefully. Submit your application via the specified method, ensuring all required documents are included and formatted correctly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Exchange Theatre
✨Show Your Passion for the Arts
As a candidate for the Chair position, it's crucial to convey your genuine passion for the arts. Share personal experiences that highlight your commitment to theatre and how it has shaped your perspective on cultural and social change.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous roles where you showcased strategic leadership. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully led teams or organisations, particularly in the arts sector, and how those experiences can benefit the Royal Exchange.
✨Engage with Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
The Royal Exchange values equity, diversity, and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of these principles and how you have implemented them in past roles. Highlight any initiatives you've led or participated in that promote these values.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Organisation
Research the Royal Exchange Theatre thoroughly before the interview. Understand its history, mission, and recent productions. This knowledge will allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute to its future and align with its artistic vision.
