Head of Administration, Programming & Development

Head of Administration, Programming & Development | Bowness-on-Windermere | Full-time, on site

A rare opportunity. A unique theatre. An extraordinary place to work. 

We're looking for an energetic, creative and commercially minded all-rounder to take the lead at the newly named Victoria Wood Theatre (formerly the Old Laundry Theatre), in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.  With more than 200 seats, the Theatre has a vibrant programme of performances and events and sits alongside the world-famous World of Beatrix Potter Attraction.

Set in one of the Lake District's busiest and most beautiful visitor destinations, the theatre has enormous potential. We're looking for someone to help shape its next chapter.

The role

This is a wonderfully varied, hands-on leadership role for someone who loves theatre, people, ideas and making things happen.

We're looking for someone who can combine creative vision with commercial thinking. Someone who can spot an opportunity, develop an idea, build the relationships to make it happen and bring it to life.

You'll be the driving force behind the theatre's creative programme, business development and day-to-day operations.

Working with the Directors, you will be responsible for:

• Artistic planning & programming: Developing an engaging and varied programme of performances, including touring, in house productions and other exciting events.

• Partnerships & fundraising: Building relationships, identifying new opportunities, attracting sponsorship and generating support for the theatre from trusts and foundations.

• Commercial development: Finding ways to grow audiences, maximise revenue and develop the theatre's potential.

• General management: Taking responsibility for the day-to-day running of the theatre and ensuring everything operates smoothly.

• People & leadership: Line managing and supporting the Box Office, Front of House and Technical team, creating a positive, motivated and welcoming working environment.

• Audience experience: Being a visible, approachable presence, managing customer expectations and ensuring audiences enjoy an exceptional experience.

• Box office & operations: Overseeing ticketing, box office management and the smooth running of the venue.

We’re looking for someone who can think strategically but isn't afraid to get stuck in. Someone equally comfortable developing a creative vision, meeting with potential sponsors, managing a team and dealing with the practicalities of running a busy theatre.

You'll ideally bring:

• Experience in theatre, venue, arts or events management.

• A creative eye and an understanding of programming and live performance.

• Commercial awareness and an ability to identify opportunities for growth.

• Experience and success in developing partnerships, fundraising and sponsorship.

• Strong organisational, leadership and people management skills.

• Excellent communication and customer service skills.

You'll have the chance to make your mark on a theatre with a distinctive identity, develop its artistic programme, build valuable relationships and help shape its future.  You'll be working in a lively, visitor-focused environment alongside the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, surrounded by everything that makes the Lake District such a special place.  You'll also benefit from a planned handover period with our current Theatre Manager, giving you the opportunity to get to know the venue, its operations, its people and its audiences.

Interviews

• First interviews: Week commencing 7 December 2026

• Second interviews: Week commencing 4 January 2027

For a more detailed job description, please contact:

Stacey McShane
Chief Operating Officer
coo@worldofbeatrixpotter.com

Find out more about the theatre at victoriawoodtheatre.com.