Deputy CEO

We are working in partnership with Anvil Arts, an independent charitable trust, and the largest performing arts organisation in Hampshire. They operate three fantastic cultural venues in Basingstoke, including The Anvil (1,400-seat), which is renowned as one of the top 5 concert halls in country. Within the same building is The Forge – an intimate 95-seat studio theatre, and in the heart of the town centre is The Haymarket, a 400-seat theatre set within a Grade II listed building.

Anvil Arts creates a year-round programme encompassing the best in music, performance, cultural education, arts participation, and outreach work. Since opening in 1994, they have sold over 5,000,000 tickets and brought audiences to Basingstoke from as far afield as Argentina, Iceland, Canada, and Japan. 

They are now seeking to appoint a Deputy Chief Executive, a new post in the Executive Leadership Team structure, reporting to the Chief Executive. The postholder will have a tight grasp on the overall operations of Anvil Arts, ensuring the continued growth of their reach and activities. Responsibility for all operational aspects of the artistic programme, strategy development that sets ambitious yet achievable targets that reflect the brand and values of Anvil Arts, driving additional earned revenue opportunities and ensuring that financial and operational capacity matches the organisation’s ambitions, will be expected. 

The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate the following:

• A proven track record of successful management in venue/s or performing arts company operations, including financial oversight.

• Experience in strategic planning, policy development, and decision-making.

• Experience of maximising revenue streams and cost effectiveness. 

• Health and Safety training or qualification, e.g. IOSH Managing Safely. 

• Personal Licence holder. 

We are seeking a dynamic and creative individual, able to balance the strategic and operational aspects of this rewarding role. Great communication and interpersonal skills, and strong leadership qualities, with the capacity to motivate and manage a diverse team will be key.

For more information, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

• Closing date: 12th January 2025

• Interviews with Anvil Arts: 23rd January onwards 

• Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by close of play on the 16th January prior to shortlisting on the 17th January