At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic theatre charity and manage operations alongside the Artistic Director.
- Company: The Play House, a respected participatory theatre organisation in Birmingham.
- Benefits: £38,000 salary, 30 days annual leave, and a permanent contract.
- Other info: Join a passionate team and help shape the future of theatre-in-education.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives through theatre and education.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills; arts or charity management experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 38000 € per year.
After forty years of bringing participatory theatre into Birmingham primary schools, The Play House is recruiting a new General Manager to lead the company alongside the Artistic Director through its next chapter. This is a senior role for someone organised, capable and committed — a partner to the Artistic Director in running a small charity with a strong reputation, deep school relationships, and a clear sense of where it's going.
The work matters: many of the schools we work with describe our practice as core to their curriculum, and for many of the children we meet, we are their first experience of live theatre. We're looking for someone who can hold the operational and financial life of the company with confidence — budgets, governance, contracts, planning.
Specific experience of arts or charity management is welcome but not essential. We'd be just as glad to hear from skilled operational leaders in education, the wider third sector, or any other setting where running a complex organisation well is what you do. The ability and the desire to take on the challenges of supporting theatre-in-education matter more to us than any specific track record.
Details:
- Salary: £38,000 per annum
- 37 hours per week, permanent contract
- 30 days annual leave plus bank and public holidays
- Based at the Action for Children Centre, Ladywood, Birmingham.
- Anticipated start: 1 September 2026 (or by agreement)
To apply, download the application pack from our website www.theplayhouse.org.uk
General Manager in Birmingham employer: The Play House
The Play House is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a well-respected charity dedicated to enriching the lives of children through theatre. With a supportive work culture that values creativity and collaboration, employees benefit from generous annual leave, a permanent contract, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the community. Located in Birmingham, this role not only provides professional growth opportunities but also allows you to be part of a passionate team committed to transforming education through the arts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the theatre and education sectors. Attend events, join online forums, and connect with folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching The Play House and its impact on local schools. Show us that you understand our mission and values. Think about how your skills can help us take our next steps forward — we love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about what we do!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of General Manager. Focus on your organisational skills and any relevant leadership experience. We want to hear how you can confidently manage budgets and operations while supporting our artistic vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and submit all required documents.
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. The Play House is all about participatory theatre in schools, so make sure your application reflects a passion for education and the arts. Show us that you get what we do!
Be Organised and Clear:As a General Manager, organisation is key! When crafting your application, keep it structured and straightforward. Use headings, bullet points, and clear language to make it easy for us to see your skills and experience at a glance.
Show Your Commitment:We want to see your dedication to theatre-in-education. Share specific examples of how you've supported similar initiatives or led teams in complex environments. Let us know why this role matters to you and how you can contribute to our mission.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re following the right process. Plus, it gives you a chance to check out more about The Play House and what we stand for.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Play House
✨Know Your Theatre
Familiarise yourself with The Play House's mission and the impact of their work in schools. Understanding their approach to participatory theatre will help you connect your experience to their needs during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your organisational and operational leadership abilities. Whether from arts, education, or another sector, be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed complex organisations and supported teams.
✨Financial Savvy is Key
Brush up on your knowledge of budgets and governance. Be prepared to discuss how you've handled financial responsibilities in previous roles, as this will be crucial for managing the operational life of the company.
✨Passion for Theatre-in-Education
Express your enthusiasm for theatre-in-education and its importance in children's lives. Share any relevant experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to this field, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
