Executive Director (Maternity Cover)

General Manager at Mercury Musical Developments

Mercury Musical Developments (MMD) is a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting the development of new musical theatre writing. We are seeking a strategic and dynamic Executive Director (Maternity Cover) to lead the organisation through a 13‑month period from early 2026. This part‑time leadership role is ideal for someone with strong experience in management, fundraising and the UK arts and charity sectors. You will work closely with the Board and staff team to ensure the financial sustainability of the organisation, lead on fundraising, oversee a programme of initiatives and help shape the next phase of MMD’s development.

Location: The MMD base at Birmingham Hippodrome. Some travel to London and other cities will be required.

Contract: Fixed term 13 months, January 2026 to February 2027

Hours: 24 per week (3 full days or spread over more days).

Job Description

• Lead MMD’s fundraising strategy, with a focus on diversifying income through grants, sponsorships, donations, and partnerships.
• Maintain a strong and proactive relationship with Arts Council England, including regular contact with the Relationship Manager and timely submission of all reporting requirements on behalf of the MMD and MTN consortium.
• Plan and lead the organisation’s application to the next ACE NPO funding round, depending on when this falls.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities for core activity and specific projects, preparing applications and ensuring compliance with all funder requirements.
• Work collaboratively with the board and staff team to align fundraising efforts with MMD’s organisational goals and artistic vision.
• Cultivate relationships with potential donors and stakeholders to support long‑term financial sustainability.

Leadership & Organisational Management

• Oversee membership development and engagement, ensuring high‑quality services are delivered across career stages and writing disciplines.
• Oversee the planning and execution of MMD’s events and initiatives, including the UK Musical Theatre Conference (2026) and BEAM Showcase (2027), ensuring these projects are strategically delivered, and financially viable.
• Line‑manage key staff (General Manager, Creative Community Coordinator, Projects Manager) and foster a collaborative, inclusive team culture.
• Ensure that MMD’s administrative and operational systems are effective, efficient, and support membership and programme delivery.
• Maintain a strong relationship with the MMD Board of Trustees, co‑ordinating meetings and communication in partnership with the Chair.

Advocacy

• Represent the organisation as an advocate of new musical theatre and a champion of developing new work.
• Identify new opportunities to increase the overall national profile of the organisation through press, media, and other platforms.
• Actively engage with the arts sector, identifying key partners, establishing and developing relationships in keeping with the strategic aims of the organisation.

Finance

• Ensure MMD’s financial sustainability through effective short‑ and long‑term planning, including setting the annual budget (2026–27) and preparing quarterly management accounts and cashflow projections.
• Oversee the General Manager’s processing of financial transactions and records.
• Work with external accountants and the board finance specialist to produce statutory accounts and ensure compliance with reporting requirements to Companies House, the Charities Commission, and other stakeholders.

Person Specification Essential Skills and Experience

• Fundraising and Income Generation: Demonstrable success in securing funding from a variety of sources, including trusts, foundations, public funders, individual donors, and sponsorship. Experience of managing funding relationships and reporting requirements.
• Leadership and Strategic Vision: Experience in senior leadership roles with the ability to deliver organisational strategy and manage change.
• Financial Acumen: Experience overseeing budgets, financial planning, and reporting, with the ability to ensure financial sustainability and work effectively with finance staff and trustees.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Strong relationship‑building skills with the ability to engage and inspire funders, partners, board members, and the wider artistic community.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with confidence in public speaking and representing an organisation externally.
• Interest in Musical Theatre: A genuine commitment to supporting the development of new musical theatre writing and nurturing creative talent.
• Collaborative and Inclusive: A team player who values diverse perspectives and fosters a positive, supportive working environment.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Experience of working in the performing arts or cultural sector.
• Knowledge of the UK arts funding landscape and key stakeholders.
• Experience working with boards, including supporting board development and governance.
• Understanding of the governance, legal, and financial requirements of running a registered charity.

Closing date: Wednesday 22nd October

Interviews (in Birmingham): w/c 3rd November

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