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- Tasks: Lead and support the board in shaping the future of the Royal Exchange Theatre.
- Company: Join the iconic Royal Exchange Theatre, a cultural powerhouse in Manchester celebrating 50 years of excellence.
- Benefits: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for creative collaboration and artistic growth.
- Why this job: This role offers a chance to influence world-class theatre and champion diversity and inclusion.
- Qualifications: Candidates should have strategic leadership experience and a passion for the arts.
- Other info: Applications close on 11th July 2025; don't miss your chance to make an impact!
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.
Chair employer: Royal Exchange Theatre
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 influential position.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion by highlighting relevant initiatives you've championed in previous roles. This will resonate with the Royal Exchange's values and illustrate your alignment with their goals.
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 any relevant achievements in the arts sector. Ensure your CV reflects your passion for the arts and your commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, as these are key aspects of the role.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the position and the Royal Exchange Theatre. Discuss how your background aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their vision of being a pioneering beacon for cultural and social change.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to follow the specific application instructions provided by Saxton Bampfylde Ltd. This includes submitting your application via the correct channels and ensuring all required documents are included before the deadline.
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. Be prepared to discuss your experiences and how they have shaped your understanding of the theatre landscape, particularly in relation to the Royal Exchange's mission.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Leadership Experience
Highlight your track record of strategic leadership in previous roles. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives, especially in creative or cultural sectors, to showcase your ability to guide the Royal Exchange towards its ambitious goals.
✨Engage with Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
The Royal Exchange values equity, diversity, and inclusion. Be ready to discuss how you have championed these principles in your past work and how you plan to integrate them into the theatre's future strategies.
✨Prepare for External Engagement Scenarios
As the Chair, you'll need to engage with various stakeholders. Prepare for questions about how you would approach building relationships with local, regional, and national partners, and be ready to share your vision for promoting the Royal Exchange within the wider community.
