The Citizens Theatre
Operations Director
Job Summary The Operations Director is a senior leadership role with responsibility for the full operational life of the Citizens Theatre. Job Description The Operations Director is a senior leadership role with responsibility for the full operational life of the Citizens Theatre. The post-holder will ensure that the building functions safely, efficiently, and sustainably; that audiences and visitors receive an outstanding welcome and experience; and that the organisation has the systems, compliance frameworks, and commercial infrastructure needed to thrive. Working closely with the Executive Director and as…
Job Summary
The Operations Director is a senior leadership role with responsibility for the full operational life of the Citizens Theatre.Job Description
The Operations Director is a senior leadership role with responsibility for the full operational life of the Citizens Theatre. The post-holder will ensure that the building functions safely, efficiently, and sustainably; that audiences and visitors receive an outstanding welcome and experience; and that the organisation has the systems, compliance frameworks, and commercial infrastructure needed to thrive. Working closely with the Executive Director and as a key member of the Senior Management Team, the Operations Director will contribute to strategic planning and organisational development and will attend meetings of the Board of Directors. The role carries direct leadership responsibility for a broad and diverse portfolio of functions and will line manage a team of departmental leads across operations.
Permanent, full time (1.0 FTE) £55,000 per annum Your normal hours of work will be 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, and such additional hours as are necessary for the proper performance of your duties. You are expected to offer reasonable flexibility in your working arrangements where it is considered necessary to undertake your duties and in the interests of the theatre, which may include evenings and weekends.
Job Requirements
The successful candidate will have substantial senior operational leadership experience within a venue, cultural organisation, or complex public-facing environment. They will demonstrate the ability to lead, motivate and develop multidisciplinary teams, fostering a positive and inclusive culture. Strong knowledge of health and safety legislation, compliance, and risk management in a public venue setting is essential, alongside experience managing facilities, building maintenance, and capital projects. The candidate will possess strong commercial and financial management skills, with a proven track record of growing income streams and managing budgets effectively. Experience of premises and public entertainment licensing, particularly within Scotland, as well as catering or hospitality operations, is required. They will be an excellent communicator, capable of engaging confidently with Boards and external stakeholders.
Job Responsibilities
As a member of the Senior Management Team, the postholder will contribute to the strategic leadership of the Citizens Theatre, helping to deliver organisational priorities, financial sustainability, and long-term development. They will lead operational planning and oversee the safe, efficient, and effective management of the theatre’s estate, including facilities, maintenance, capital projects, and compliance. The role is responsible for health and safety, licensing, risk management, and ensuring the building remains welcoming, accessible, and fit for purpose. The postholder will provide strategic oversight of audience experience, front of house operations, commercial income streams including the caf bar, hires and events, and the organisation’s IT infrastructure. They will lead environmental sustainability initiatives and ensure compliance with relevant legislation and best practice.
