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, Selina Cartmell, we are looking for an ambitious, creative and entrepreneurial Executive Director to co-lead the organisation as Joint CEO. 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.
Working alongside the AD as Co-CEO, the ED will provide strategic vision and leadership for the Royal Exchange, ensuring the organisation delivers on creative excellence, social impact, and education and skills development for the people it serves, alongside its long-term success as a financially sustainable leading theatre with a strong local presence and a stellar national and international reputation. The ideal candidate will be a proven leader in the arts or creative industries with experience of working closely with an Artistic or Creative Director. They will bring inspirational leadership to all, embedding an engaging, inclusive culture where all staff can thrive; they will have strong financial and business acumen, with an entrepreneurialism and experience of managing significant budgets and developing income streams, utilising strong advocacy and stakeholder skills. Candidates will also bring an understanding and experience of the role of creative learning, outreach and talent development, and have a demonstrable commitment to equality, diversity and widening access.
Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Royal Exchange Theatre on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference JBULA. Alternatively email Belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on Tuesday 24th June 2025.
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