Young Co. Director (Freelance)
Citizens Theatre
Glasgow, Scotland
Fee: £5,400 (Fixed-Term Freelance Contract)
Contract Period: November 2026 to June 2027
Job Overview
The Citizens Theatre is seeking a dynamic and inspiring Young Co. Director to lead the next chapter of our acclaimed Citizens Young Company (Young Co.) programme.
Working with young adults aged 18 to 23, you will provide creative leadership, mentorship and support while developing and directing an ensemble production to be presented as part of the Assemble Festival 2027 in our Studio Theatre.
This role is ideal for an experienced theatre-maker with a strong commitment to youth arts, collaborative practice and creating inclusive, person-centred creative environments.
About the Young Company
The Citizens Young Company is a year-round programme supporting young adults who are passionate about theatre, creative careers, personal development and community. Each year, up to 20 members participate in weekly creative sessions, mentoring opportunities, professional development activities and performance projects.
Since 2005, Young Co. has supported hundreds of young people from Glasgow and beyond to develop confidence, skills and connections within the cultural sector.
Key Details
- Contract Type: Fixed-Term Freelance
- Reporting To: Participate Director and Participate Programme Manager
- Location: Citizens Theatre, Glasgow
- Fee: £5,400
- Time Commitment:
- 25 weekly half-day Young Co. sessions and rehearsals
- Wednesday evenings (January to June 2027)
- An additional 10 days worked flexibly between November 2026 and June 2027 for planning, meetings, administration and production preparation
Key ResponsibilitiesCreative Leadership & Artistic Delivery
- Lead and facilitate engaging, inclusive and high-quality weekly sessions
- Develop and direct an ensemble production for presentation at Assemble Festival 2027
- Collaborate with Young Co. members throughout the creative development process
- Foster a positive, supportive and artistically ambitious environment
- Contribute to members' personal and professional development
Safeguarding & Duty of Care
- Create and maintain a safe, person-centred working environment
- Act as safeguarding lead during Young Co. activities
- Follow Citizens Theatre safeguarding policies and procedures
- Respond appropriately to wellbeing and safeguarding concerns
Administration, Monitoring & Evaluation
- Complete attendance records and project administration
- Provide regular updates to the Participate Programme Manager
- Support project evaluation and participant reflection activities
Collaboration & Planning
- Attend monthly planning and operational meetings
- Work closely with Participate staff and Creative Support teams
- Identify opportunities for Young Co. members across the organisation
Essential Requirements
- Based in Glasgow with strong knowledge of the youth and professional theatre sectors
- Significant experience directing productions and performance projects
- Recent experience facilitating creative work with young adults
- Strong leadership, facilitation and relationship-building skills
- Experience supporting or mentoring emerging artists and practitioners
- Collaborative, reflective and flexible working style
- Commitment to safeguarding and inclusive practice
- Current PVG membership or willingness to obtain PVG registration
- Experience delivering evaluation and reflective processes
About the Production
Applicants should propose an idea for a production that:
- Works as a genuine ensemble piece for approximately 16 performers
- Speaks to young adult performers and audiences
- May be scripted, adapted, devised or collaboratively created
- Can be delivered within a modest production budget
- Is achievable within a festival-style production schedule
- Reflects the values and ethos of Young Co.
How to Apply
Please submit:
1. CV or Portfolio
Demonstrating relevant experience and responsibilities.
2. Cover Letter (Maximum 2 Pages)
Your cover letter should:
- Explain your suitability for the role
- Outline the production idea you would like to create with Young Co.
- Describe your approach to working with young adults
- Demonstrate alignment with the values and ethos of the Young Company
Send applications to: [email protected]
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 13 August 2026, 4:00pm
- Shortlisting: Week commencing 17 August 2026
- Interviews & Paid Workshops: Wednesdays 9, 16, 23 and 30 September 2026
- Expected Appointment: End of September 2026
If you would like an informal conversation about the role before applying, please contact [email protected].
Citizens Theatre is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences.
Pay: £5,400.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
