Artistic Director

Job Description

Tamasha is one of the UKs leading theatre companies. For over 30 years we have produced exciting new theatre, working with some of the UKs most renowned ethnically diverse writers, directors and actors. What we are looking forWe are seeking a bold andvisionary leader / emerging leader to join Tamasha at this exciting new chapter in our development. You should have wide-ranging experience and skills, not necessarily gained in the theatre industry - you could work in another creative discipline or sector,or could be a creative producer, community producer, or programmer. Whats most important is that you are passionate about supporting ethnically diverse creative practice, and that you have ambition to build on Tamashas reputation for being a pioneer in highquality theatre. You should be excited to drive our mission to reach wide diverse audiences across the UK and be adept at providing visionary artistic leadership for our small but perfectly formed team and the artists we work with. We are committed to talentdevelopment and will support any emerging leaders who meet key essential requirements to develop and grow into the role, rather than expecting applicants to come fully formed. We are interested in exploring new models for artistic leadership and we are happyto consider applications from job shares, or collaborations between artists or other creatives. Given the remit of the company and the nature of this role we positively welcome applications from ethnically diverse candidates. Purpose The Artistic Directorhas overall artistic lead for Tamasha, working closely with the Executive Director / CEO to deliver an ambitious programme of work. The AD is charged with developing and articulating a compelling and inspirational artistic vision and leading the effectivedelivery of the artistic programme. The Artistic Director will: Clearly articulate and lead the companys artistic vision and mission, in line with our Business plan objectives Lead on devising Tamashas annual creative programme including national tours,in close collaboration with the ED and producers Initiate and cultivate new creative and strategic partnerships and collaborations to further Tamashas mission Be a key advocate / spokesperson for Tamasha - ensuring that the profile of the companys work isclearly articulated and developed in key national / international circles. PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES Artistic leadership Shape and oversee all aspects of Tamashas artistic programme and strategy - what and why we commission; who we partner and work with;how we grow artistictalent Build on Tamashas role as a pioneering organisation committed to diversifying the theatre sector - both in terms of artistic product and the creative workforce Enhance existing and seek new collaborative partnerships with othertheatre, arts and creative organisations to enable Tamasha to expand its artistic ambitions and to maximise its resources Lead on creating work suitable for wide distribution, to reach audiences nationally and internationally - including touring and onlineplatforms Oversee the companys Developing Artists programme, leading the Assistant Producer to grow and develop new creative interventions and partnerships Contribute to the companys burgeoning digital portfolio, overseeing the work of the Digital Producerand Lead Producer, and creating new partnerships to support the creation and distribution of work Ensure that the company is able to develop and realise a strong, clear, imaginative and consistently high quality programme of activity which reaches wide audiences,and is in line with approved policies and procedures. Speak widely and passionately about Tamasha across a range of platforms, to advocate, influence and lead on challenges and issues within the cultural sectors. Strategic Development Working closely withthe Executive Director Contribute towards the development of a sustainable business plan for each National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) funding period, ensuring that Tamasha operates as a successful and sustainable business Support funding applications asneeded to deliver the companys activity, including securing future National Portfolio Organisation funding from Arts Council England, as well as funding from Trusts & Foundations, individual giving etc. Contribute to income generation and development strategiesand be actively involved in donor meetings, campaigns and cultivation events Contribute towards developing Tamashas touring and distribution policy, helping us to plan overall distribution to achieve the best artistic and financial benefit of the companyInput as needed into negotiating and contracting with third parties (partners, creatives, rights holders) working closely with the Lead Producer to ensure the best deals are achieved for the company. With the ED / CEO explore opportunities to develop the culturalcapital and social impact of the work of the company, including potential commercial exploitation of products, and the development of the companys archive. Operations and Finance Manage and report on Tamashas artistic programme and budgets for approval bythe ED/CEO and Board Lead the evaluation of all artistic work, to guide Tamashas future activity and development Support Tamashas staff team, and contribute as needed to the recruitment, management, appraisal and professional development of the team ChampionTamashas environmental responsibilities and seek opportunities to develop creative responses to the climate crisis Efficiently manage and prioritise own workload and administration and meet deadlines. External relations and communications Play a leading rolein developing and maintaining strong and productive relationships with existing and potential partners and stakeholders, including key funders Arts Council England, key venues and partners and a range of trusts and foundations Represent and promote Tamashaand our interests by championing and advocating for the company in the media, with key stakeholders, institutions and opinion-formers, ensuring a high profile nationally and internationally. Audience development and engagement Working with the Marketing Managerand producers, devise strategies to build and diversify audiences across the UK for the companys activities Develop creative programmes to engage new and different audiences and participants, regionally and nationally, in line with business plan objectives.PERSON SPECIFICATION We are looking for a someone who is passionate about diverse creative practice and can lead and shape Tamashas creative identity. Someone who can build on Tamashas successes , and develop new and exciting creative products for wide audiences.Essential skills and experience An inspiring and visionary artistic leader, collaborator and partnership builder Experience of creating, directing, producing / curating and touring high quality professional cultural products and cross-discipline projects atdifferent scal