At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the National Theatre's digital content programme and shape innovative programming.
- Company: Join the iconic National Theatre and be part of a creative digital team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, creative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on inclusivity and high performance.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in the theatre world and lead a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience in theatre programming and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Head of Programming to join the National Theatre's Digital team. The Head of Programming is responsible for shaping and delivering the National Theatre’s digital content programme across NT Live, NT at Home, NT Collection and future platforms. This is a high impact senior editorial role responsible for creative curation, audience development and commercial performance.
Working collaboratively across the organisation and with external partners, the role leads key stakeholder relationships, including producing partners, agents, unions and broadcasters in negotiating commercial terms, rights, and contracts. The Head of Programming contributes to departmental strategy and is accountable for delivering against both departmental and organisational objectives.
The role also leads and develops a team of Programming Producers, providing clear direction, coaching and oversight, while fostering a collaborative, agile and high-performing team culture.
The successful candidates will have the following:
- Significant senior-level experience in theatre programming is essential.
- Strong track record of shaping and delivering high-quality programming.
- Extensive experience of negotiating and managing complex contractual arrangements, including leading high-value negotiations and overseeing delivery.
- Deep experience of working across a broad stakeholder landscape, building and maintaining effective relationships with both internal teams and external partners.
- Proven leadership of high-performing teams, with the ability to develop, motivate and support others within an inclusive and collaborative culture.
- Strong commercial and financial acumen, including experience of budget ownership, forecasting and performance management.
- In-depth understanding of the contractual and industrial landscape of the theatre sector, including union frameworks.
If that sounds like you, then we would love to hear from you!
To apply, please follow: closing date for the receipt of a completed application is Friday 12th June 2026 at 12 noon.
Head of Programming, Digital in London employer: National Theatre
The National Theatre is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. As the Head of Programming, you will have the opportunity to lead a talented team while shaping the future of digital theatre content in a prestigious institution located in the heart of London. With a strong commitment to employee development and a focus on high-quality programming, the National Theatre provides a rewarding environment for those passionate about the arts and digital innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Programming, Digital in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the theatre and digital sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Head of Programming role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your past programming successes and any innovative projects you've led. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their digital content programme.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the National Theatre’s current digital offerings. Be ready to discuss how you can enhance their programming and audience engagement strategies. Tailor your insights to align with their goals!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Programming, Digital in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Theatre:When writing your application, let your love for theatre shine through! Share specific examples of how you've shaped and delivered high-quality programming in the past. We want to see your enthusiasm and commitment to the art form.
Highlight Your Negotiation Skills:Since this role involves negotiating complex contracts, make sure to showcase your experience in this area. We’re looking for someone who can confidently manage high-value negotiations, so include any relevant examples that demonstrate your expertise.
Emphasise Team Leadership:As a Head of Programming, you'll be leading a team of Programming Producers. In your application, talk about your leadership style and how you've developed and motivated teams in the past. We value collaboration and inclusivity, so share how you foster these qualities.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure your application is tailored to the job description. Use keywords from the posting and align your experiences with the responsibilities outlined. We appreciate when candidates take the time to connect their background with what we’re looking for!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Theatre
✨Know Your Digital Content Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the National Theatre’s digital offerings like NT Live and NT at Home. Familiarise yourself with their past programming successes and challenges. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how you can shape future content.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare specific examples of complex negotiations you've led in the past. Be ready to discuss how you navigated contractual arrangements and what strategies you used to achieve successful outcomes. This is crucial for demonstrating your ability to handle high-value negotiations.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Style
Think about your approach to leading teams and fostering a collaborative culture. Be prepared to share anecdotes that illustrate how you've motivated and developed your team members, especially in high-pressure situations. This will resonate well with their focus on team dynamics.
✨Understand the Stakeholder Landscape
Research the key stakeholders in the theatre sector, including unions and broadcasters. Be ready to discuss how you’ve built and maintained effective relationships in your previous roles. This will show that you understand the importance of collaboration in achieving departmental and organisational objectives.
