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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the vibrant programming and operations of Watersmeet Theatre, ensuring successful events.
- Company: Join a community-focused organisation in beautiful Hertfordshire, close to the film industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 29 days holiday, flexible working, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a beloved cultural venue and leave a lasting legacy.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in senior management within arts venues, with strong programming and budget management skills.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team where 88% find their work fulfilling and rewarding.
About Us
Three Rivers District in South West Hertfordshire straddles the north west corner of the M25 on the edge of Greater London. The district is a mixture of beautiful countryside, villages and small towns. The area has a diverse range of sectors and businesses and is a centre for the film industry with Warner Brothers at Leavesden forming part of a studio cluster along with Elstree and Pinewood at a short drive away.
We are now looking for a Watersmeet Theatre Manager to join our team on a full-time, permanent basis.
The Benefits
- Salary of £38,325 - £40,197 per annum, including London Weighting
- 29 days holiday per annum
- Generous employer pension contribution
- Life assurance
- Flexible working
- Career development opportunities
- Free on-site parking
- Cycle-to-work scheme
- Discounted leisure centre membership
- Employee volunteering schemes
- Access to discounted activities and days out
This is a standout opportunity for an experienced arts venue leader with strong theatre programming and commercial insight experience to join our community-focused organisation. You will have genuine scope to shape the future of a much-loved cultural venue, as you build exciting programmes that resonate with audiences, attract new visitors and keep Watersmeet thriving for years to come.
The Role
As the Watersmeet Theatre Manager, you will lead the day-to-day running and future development of Watersmeet, ensuring a vibrant programme of theatre, film, hires and events is delivered smoothly and successfully. Specifically, you will shape the strategic direction of the venue, overseeing business planning, live theatre and film programming, pantomime delivery and funding opportunities. You will build strong relationships with promoters, producers and regional theatres to keep Watersmeet relevant, creative and financially sustainable. Alongside this, you will manage people, budgets and operations, ensuring an excellent customer experience and safe, well-run events at all times.
Additionally, you will:
- Manage revenue and capital budgets, reporting performance and planning future investment
- Lead, recruit and develop permanent staff, casual staff and volunteers
- Oversee box office, ticket sales, staffing rotas and venue administration
- Manage health and safety compliance and act as Designated Premises Supervisor
- Co-ordinate capital projects and long-term building improvements
- Act as Duty Manager for events and support wider council initiatives when required
About You
To be considered as the Watersmeet Theatre Manager, you will need:
- At least three years experience in a senior management role within an arts or cultural venue
- Experience of live theatre programming and managing a busy venue
- Proven experience managing revenue and capital budgets
- Experience delivering capital projects on time and within budget
- Experience leading and developing staff and volunteers
- Strong negotiation, communication and relationship management skills
- Excellent written and presentation skills
- A strong eye for detail and audience experience
- Commercial awareness and strong organisational skills
- Confidence working within a local government context
- The ability to work flexibly, including unsocial hours when required
- A personal licence, or willingness to obtain one
The closing date for this role is 2nd February 2026.
Watersmeet Theatre Manager in Rickmansworth employer: Three Rivers District Council
Contact Detail:
Three Rivers District Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Watersmeet Theatre Manager in Rickmansworth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend local arts events, workshops, or community gatherings to meet people in the industry. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job at Watersmeet!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your ideas for programming and how you can make Watersmeet even more vibrant. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Watersmeet's past events and current trends in the arts scene. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in shaping the venue's future.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our fantastic team at Watersmeet.
We think you need these skills to ace Watersmeet Theatre Manager in Rickmansworth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Watersmeet Theatre Manager role. Highlight your experience in arts venue management and any relevant projects you've led that align with the job description.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. Use numbers and examples to illustrate how you’ve successfully managed budgets or improved audience engagement.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We want to see who you are beyond your qualifications, so feel free to share your passion for the arts and what excites you about this opportunity.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Three Rivers District Council
✨Know Your Venue
Before the interview, make sure you research Watersmeet Theatre thoroughly. Understand its history, current programming, and community impact. This will show your genuine interest and help you discuss how you can contribute to its future.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience in theatre programming and budget management. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led teams and managed events, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
During the interview, don’t just answer questions—engage with your interviewers. Ask them about their vision for the theatre and how they see the role evolving. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and willingness to collaborate.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the challenges the theatre currently faces or opportunities for growth. This shows you're proactive and genuinely interested in the position.
