About the Regal
The Regal is a theatre and cinema that sits at the heart of Tenbury Wells in Worcestershire. For almost 90 years the Regal has provided access to the arts to the community in and around Tenbury Wells. The Regal is a critical part of the life of the town operating from a listed Art-Deco building with a 260 seat theatre and 50 seat studio providing a hub for live events, theatre, cinema and community activity. We offer an extensive and diverse programme of over 200 events per year delivering something for everyone across our community, drawing annual audiences of over 20,000 people. We also support the Regal Community Theatre, the Regal School of Creative Arts, the Regal Community Choir and produce a popular panto each year.
The Regal will celebrate its 90th anniversary in 2027 and we are looking for a Theatre Director who will lead us in delivering a special year of programming and will then, in the coming years, continue to build our audiences and financial stability. You will lead a small staff, who support accounting, marketing and coordinate our volunteers. The operations of the theatre are supported by a team of 80 volunteers. You will report to the Board of Trustees, support the work of the Board's committees and work closely with its Chair.
Key Responsibilities:
* Develop and implement the theatre's strategic vision and supporting business plan
* Develop the artistic strategy, selecting repertoire, and planning the season of productions
* Develop and manage the theatre's budget
* Liaise and negotiate terms with show promoters and film distributors. Oversee the hiring of artists and technical personnel for performances
* Oversee the daily operations of the theatre, including administration, production, marketing, and front-of-house
* Oversee the required maintenance of the Regal building and liaise with the building's landlord
* Oversee HR activities, including hiring and contracting of staff, training, development and mentoring, and performance management
* Lead fundraising efforts
* Oversee financial reporting and compliance with financial regulations
* Act as the public face of the theatre, representing it in the media and at public events
* Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including patrons, donors, community leaders, and arts organisations
* Develop and implement marketing and audience development strategies to increase attendance and community engagement
* Ensure the theatre complies with all relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards
What Skills Do We Need?
The Regal's Theatre Director is someone who can operate at a strategic level but is also able to be hands-on with close attention to detail. Enthusiasm for the value of the performing arts in developing and supporting communities is an absolute must.
Other key skills:
* Proven leadership and management skills
* Experience in strategic planning
* Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, financial analysis, and fundraising
* Experience in securing and managing funding
* Understanding of the theatre and performing arts sector
* Knowledge of current trends and challenges in the arts industry
* Ability to build and maintain relationships
* Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills
* Ability to think strategically and solve problems creatively
* Strong decision-making skills under pressure
* Ability to work creatively and to make the most of scarce resources.