Chief Executive Officer

The Role

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the CEO/Director will be responsible for the overall strategic, financial, and operational leadership of Chelsea Theatre. This is a hands-on role with a focus on balancing the day-to-day running of the operational activities of the venue, with essential components such as stakeholder management, community engagement and income generation. 

Key Responsibilities

The postholder will: 

• Provide leadership and responsibility for the charity’s purpose, administration and financial management plus ensure compliance with the law and regulations. 

• Generate significant earned income from one-off and repeat hirers, including local community organisations, commercial contracts, arts organisations and private hires, with a focus on high quality customer care.

• Increase income from grants, corporates and funds from individuals, with support from Trustees.

• Run the building as a community centre, making an ever-increasing positive impact in the local community and beyond. 

• Motivate and engage a small team of staff and volunteers, and broad range of stakeholders and prospective supporters.

• Where necessary, with the team, be capable of delivering a range of operational tasks, such as updating the website and managing the box office systems.

• Act as ambassador for the charity, building relationships with partners and stakeholders in the community, local government and with businesses. 

Strategic & Commercial Leadership

• Work with the Board to develop and implement a clear vision and business strategy to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of the Chelsea Theatre.

• Identify and maximise commercial opportunities, including venue hire, sponsorship, and partnerships. Support the Board with fundraising.

• Lead on business development and marketing initiatives to increase revenue while maintaining the venue’s community-focused ethos.

• Ensure the organisation’s mixed team of staff and volunteers are focused on supporting the business’s mission and objectives.  

Venue & Operational Management

• Oversee all aspects of venue operations, ensuring the highest standards of efficiency, customer experience, and compliance with health and safety regulations.

• Develop and manage budgets effectively, ensuring quality financial reporting, financial stability, and responsible stewardship of resources.

• Ability to optimise rental income and diversify income streams, while serving community needs. 

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including funders, local authorities, businesses, and community groups.

• Operate within the annual budget. Monitor key indicators of the organisation’s impact and financial health. 

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

• Develop and nurture partnerships with the local community, ensuring the theatre remains a welcoming and accessible space for all.

• Work closely with the Board of Trustees to align organisational commercial goals with community needs and expectations.

• Further develop a balanced and funded community programme, which currently include a flagship youth theatre scheme, to reflect community needs and interests. 

• Represent Chelsea Theatre externally, acting as an advocate for its work and impact.