Creative Director

We are looking for an individual with an unwavering commitment to providing audiences and communities with world-class theatrical experiences. If you are interested in creating an environment for artists to do their best work, challenge us and the world, to think differently, tell stories that speak to our time, and collaborate with a committed and highly-skilled company, then this is a golden opportunity for you to excel and lead with vision.

The Royal Exchange Theatre celebrates its 50th birthday in 2026. This will mark a new chapter in the rich, creative history of the organisation. We are looking for inspirational leadership to join us and help shape the Royal Exchange Theatre of the future. You will have the opportunity to invite world-class artists and those at the early stages of their career to make work that connects with audiences. We are looking for someone who is prepared to develop a deeper understanding of the people who live, work and play in Greater Manchester; Someone who is driven by a commitment to work with artists at the forefront of their practice and someone who understands how we should utilise the creative assets of the Royal Exchange to support and develop artists at all levels.

This role will sit at the heart of our organisation and the successful candidate will be in a position to affect positive change across all areas of our business. The Royal Exchange Theatre is home to some of the most committed and highly skilled individuals in the industry, who care deeply about the work that we make and who we make it for. This role is an opportunity to harness the creative potential of the organisation and its people, in the pursuit of artistic excellence for the broadest range of people.

If you would like an informal and confidential conversation about this opportunity, we warmly encourage you to contact Mary Caws, an independent consultant who is working with us: cawsmary@gmail.com

To Apply: 
Please email recruitment@royalexchange.co.uk with:

• A two-page statement (A4) telling us why you want to be our Creative Director, outlining the skills and experiences you would bring to the role, and how these meet the person specification.
• Your CV (max. two pages), which needs to include the names and email addresses of two referees.

Please read the Creative Director Recruitment Pack before applying.

Please note your application form will be shared with external panel members/panel observers for the sole purpose of Creative Director recruitment selection.