At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant theatre, driving strategic vision and community engagement.
- Company: Join New Diorama, an innovative independent theatre with a collaborative spirit.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, wellbeing contributions, and complimentary tickets to productions.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team dedicated to artistic excellence and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Shape the future of theatre while supporting emerging artists and diverse communities.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership, fundraising skills, and a passion for the arts.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 € per year.
We are seeking a passionate and ambitious Executive Director & Co-CEO to join our leadership team. You will provide overall administrative and strategic leadership for our vibrant theatre and also work with senior colleagues to build and sustain a much broader ecosystem of innovative productions, sector-leading artist support, community engagement and vital collaborative partnerships.
New Diorama delivers first-class programming, nurtures the next generation of artists, and provides an inclusive, enjoyable environment for the hugely diverse mix of theatre professionals, audience members and local residents who visit and use our space. We are proudly independent and depend upon a wide range of key relationships – from artistic collaborators and commercial partners to local community groups – with every penny that we spend needing to be raised or earned.
What has made us such a success has been our willingness to identify and nurture new theatre makers, taking them on a journey from scratch performances to national and international profile, to understand the challenges faced by the artists and communities we serve and to provide the support required to meet them head-on. We are looking for someone who shares the passion, commitment and values that have defined our work to date and is ready to roll up their sleeves and help take New Diorama forward.
The Executive Director & Co-CEO is New Diorama’s Business & Strategic Lead, responsible for financial management, fundraising, governance and strategic development. They will work together with the Executive Producer as Co-CEOs to provide overall organisational leadership, collaborating closely with the Artistic Lead on programming, artist development and support. This model of leadership is designed to be shared, accountable, and collaborative, reflecting the theatre’s values and providing resilience against the challenges of working in an industry under unprecedented pressure.
New Diorama is fully programmed for 2026 with a broad range of innovative work from new and established companies and an ongoing series of artist support interventions. While fundraising remains a critical priority, we have a strong track record and good relationships with trusts and foundations, as well as constructive engagement from key partners such as British Land, on whose estate the theatre is located. We also have significant long-term strategic projects in development, and most importantly a fantastic, vibrant staff team, several of whom have long-standing dedication to the organisation.
Our new Executive Director & Co-CEO should have considerable strategic and fundraising ambition, a collaborative approach to working (especially with our Artistic Lead and Executive Producer & Co-CEO), the organisational and financial management skills to ensure the theatre runs efficiently, and an ambitious, forward-looking vision to safeguard and build upon it for the future. It is a genuinely exciting opportunity, and we look forward to receiving your application.
About New Diorama
New Diorama is a creative home dedicated to transforming the landscape of how independent theatre is developed, supported and celebrated. Since opening in 2010, we have established an award-winning record of commissioning the most exciting, innovative new theatre as well as providing thought-leadership for meaningful artist support and sector development.
Our commissioned work has transferred to the West End and Broadway, toured nationally and internationally to prestigious venues, and been broadcast on the BBC. Our pioneering artist support programmes reach hundreds of independent companies and freelance artists annually, providing resources and mentorship to progress their practice, company and career that is not available anywhere else.
Our Team
New Diorama operates under a shared leadership structure which directly reflects our collaborative ethos while driving improved organisational resilience in support of our indefatigable artistic ambition.
- Artistic Lead: Emma Clark, Head of Programme - Creative vision, artistic relationships, programming and cultural impact.
- Operations Lead: Sophie Wallis, Executive Producer & Co-CEO - Lead producer of all activity and operational delivery.
- Business Lead: Executive Director & Co-CEO - Finance, fundraising, strategic partnerships, governance and organisational development.
The incoming postholder will be an essential pillar of this structure. Our collaborative model is further supported by our diverse and dedicated small staff team of seven, together with our front of house and café staff.
A Board of Trustees, who meet regularly, oversees the NDT’s charitable objectives - they include senior representatives from the arts, business, professional services, politics and the public sector.
About the Role
Job title: Executive Director & Co-CEO
Responsible to: Chair of Board of Trustees
Working closely with: Chair of Board of Trustees, Artistic Lead, Executive Producer & Co-CEO, Finance Director, and Staff Team.
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £45,000 per annum
Hours of work: Full time, 40 hours per week. Core hours 10am–6pm. We operate Time Off in Lieu for additional hours required, which may include evenings and weekends.
Place of work: New Diorama Theatre, 15-16 Triton Street, Regent's Place, London, NW1 3BF.
Annual Leave: 20 days plus bank holidays, and additional gifted days.
Probation period: 6 months.
Benefits
We strive to make New Diorama a supportive environment to work in:
- Flexi-time: Core hours between 10am–6pm, to help support work-life balance.
- Wellbeing: Financial contribution on top of your salary (currently £500 pa), for gym membership or other wellbeing activities of your choice.
- Annual Leave: Additional gifted days for your birthday and during closure over Christmas (~ 2 weeks).
- Pension: Company pension scheme enrolment with generous employer contribution.
- Tickets: Complimentary tickets for all New Diorama productions (subject to availability).
- Discounts: Subsidised food and drink at New Diorama's Café.
- Training: Opportunities for professional and personal development.
Executive Director & Co-CEO Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Governance
As Co-CEO, you will share executive leadership of New Diorama with the Artistic Lead and Executive Producer, holding collective responsibility for the organisation's strategic direction, organisational health, and long-term sustainability.
Work in close partnership with the Artistic Lead and Executive Producer & Co-CEO in agreement with the Board to develop and implement New Diorama's strategic plans. This strategy will include a dynamic artistic policy and programme, development of new audiences, community engagement, and financial and environmental sustainability.
Serve as a key external representative and spokesperson for New Diorama with funders, stakeholders, partners, and the wider sector.
Lead on board reporting, governance processes, and serve as primary liaison with the Board of Trustees.
Ensure compliance with charity governance, company law, health and safety legislation, and safeguarding requirements.
Uphold and model New Diorama's values of excellence, collaboration, inclusion and creative ambition.
Financial Management
You will hold executive responsibility for New Diorama's financial health, working closely with the Board Finance & Funding Sub-Committee, Finance Director and external accountants.
Lead on financial strategy and planning, including setting and reviewing organisational and departmental budgets, targets, financial processes, and reporting to the Board.
Ensure the efficient, effective and solvent financial management of the Company and identify appropriate opportunities for income generation.
Monitor and manage the organisational budget, ensuring financial discipline and transparency.
Oversee payroll, accounts, financial reporting, and annual audit processes.
Manage cashflow and reserves, ensuring financial protocols are followed across the team.
Report regularly to the Board on financial performance, risks and opportunities.
Ensure Theatre Tax Relief processes are managed accurately and effectively.
Fundraising & Business Development
You will provide hands-on leadership and deliver New Diorama's diversified fundraising strategy.
Hold strategic oversight of New Diorama's fundraising portfolio, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, individual giving, and earned income.
Lead on fundraising, including application-writing, funder reporting, and developing individual giving.
Lead on key funder relationships and high-value applications.
Ensure all funding activity aligns with New Diorama’s artistic programming and development, community engagement, distributed leadership model and organisational values.
Oversee reporting obligations, grant compliance and funder stewardship across all income streams.
Develop new income opportunities and partnerships in line with strategic priorities.
Organisational Development
You will have overall responsibility for how New Diorama works as an organisation including implementing and developing its systems, policies and processes.
Lead on organisational systems, processes and infrastructure to support the team's work.
Lead on contracting and terms for productions, co-productions and key partnerships, and the approach to creative and freelance contracting.
Act as HR lead, including contracting, supporting and managing staff, maintaining organisational policies, and setting and reviewing salaries.
Collaborative Responsibilities
Our collaborative approach means you will also hold shared responsibility for New Diorama’s success and are accountable for supporting the executive and the wider team. This means working flexibly and generously across the organisation, stepping in where needed to deliver our ambitious programme of work with care, ensuring the ethos and collaborative culture of New Diorama is upheld by everyone.
As part of the executive leadership team, you will share responsibility for:
- Strategic Leadership & Organisational Health
- Operational & Production Support
- Team Leadership & Culture
Executive Director & Co-CEO employer: NEW DIORAMA THEATRE
New Diorama is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises collaboration and professional development. With a strong commitment to artist support and community engagement, employees benefit from flexible working hours, generous wellbeing contributions, and opportunities for meaningful impact in the theatre sector. Located in the heart of London, New Diorama provides a unique environment where creativity thrives, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals to grow and contribute to the arts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director & Co-CEO
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the theatre industry. Attend events, workshops, and performances to meet potential collaborators and funders. Remember, it's all about building those relationships!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with someone about the role, let your enthusiasm for theatre shine through. Share your vision for how you can contribute to New Diorama's mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Know their recent productions, partnerships, and community initiatives. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After any meeting or interview, drop a quick thank-you note to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your professionalism. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your excitement about the opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director & Co-CEO
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for theatre shine through! We want to see how your values align with ours at New Diorama. Share your experiences and what excites you about the role of Executive Director & Co-CEO.
Be Specific:Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your skills in strategic leadership and fundraising. We love a good story, so don’t be shy about sharing how you've tackled challenges or led successful projects!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to reflect the unique aspects of New Diorama. Highlight how your vision aligns with our mission and how you can contribute to our vibrant community and innovative productions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us that you’re keen on being part of our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at NEW DIORAMA THEATRE
✨Know Your Theatre Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the current trends and challenges in the theatre industry, especially those affecting independent theatres. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with New Diorama's mission and values.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
As the role involves working closely with the Artistic Lead and Executive Producer, demonstrate your collaborative approach. Share examples of past experiences where teamwork led to successful outcomes, highlighting your ability to build strong relationships.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
Since financial management is a key responsibility, brush up on your knowledge of budgeting, fundraising strategies, and financial reporting. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure the theatre's financial health and explore new income opportunities.
✨Engage with Community Engagement Strategies
New Diorama values community engagement, so come equipped with ideas on how to enhance local partnerships and audience development. Discuss any previous initiatives you've led that successfully engaged communities or supported artists.
