GENERAL MANAGER - VIVA ARTS AND COMMUNITY GROUP LTD
Job Purpose
The General Manager will provide strategic, operational and financial leadership across all aspects of Viva Arts and Community Group Ltd’s activities.
This is a senior leadership role responsible for ensuring the effective day-to-day management of the charity and its operations, including theatre activity, productions, touring work, the charity shop, staffing, volunteers and organisational development.
The postholder will work closely with the Board of Trustees to support Viva’s continued growth, sustainability and community impact, while helping to develop new opportunities, partnerships and income streams.
The General Manager will also act as Producer for Viva Productions, including professional touring productions.
Key Responsibilities
Organisational Leadership
- Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the charity.
- Support the strategic vision and objectives set by the Board of Trustees.
- Develop and implement operational plans to support organisational growth and sustainability.
- Ensure effective communication between staff, volunteers and Trustees.
- Represent Viva externally with partners, stakeholders, funders and the wider community.
Theatre & Venue Operations
- Oversee the effective operation and usage of The Viva Theatre.
- Maximise commercial and community use of the venue.
- Support programming, productions, hires and events.
- Ensure the theatre operates safely, efficiently and professionally.
- Oversee Front of House operations and audience experience.
Productions & Producing
- Act as Producer for Viva Productions, including professional touring productions.
- Oversee production planning, logistics, scheduling and delivery.
- Liaise with creative teams, venues, contractors and partners.
- Support the continued development of touring and professional theatre activity.
Charity Shop Operations
- Oversee the operation and development of the Viva Charity Shop.
- Support stock management, staffing and income generation.
- Ensure effective integration between retail activity and wider organisational objectives.
Staff & Volunteer Management
- Line manage staff across the organisation (typically 2-3 part time staff).
- Support recruitment, induction, training and performance management.
- Oversee volunteer coordination and development.
- Foster a positive, collaborative and inclusive working culture.
Finance & Income Generation
- Oversee organisational budgets and financial monitoring.
- Support accurate financial reporting and budget management.
- Work with bookkeepers/accountants and Trustees to ensure financial compliance.
- Identify and develop new income streams and commercial opportunities.
- Support fundraising activity and oversee funding applications and reporting.
Governance, Compliance & Administration
- Act as Company Secretary.
- Support preparation of the Annual Report and Annual Accounts.
- Ensure compliance with Charity Commission and Companies House requirements.
- Maintain organisational policies and procedures.
- Oversee insurance arrangements and organisational compliance requirements.
- Ensure appropriate safeguarding, health & safety and data protection procedures are in place.
Strategy & Development
- Contribute to long-term strategic planning.
- Develop partnerships and collaborative opportunities.
- Identify opportunities for growth, outreach and community engagement.
- Create and manage new initiatives and projects as required.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
Experience & Knowledge
- Experience in organisational or operational management.
- Experience of people management and team leadership.
- Financial management and budget monitoring experience.
- Knowledge of fundraising and funding applications.
- Experience or knowledge of theatre, productions and/or producing.
- Understanding of charity governance and compliance responsibilities.
Skills & Abilities
- Excellent organisational and administrative skills.
- Strong time management skills and ability to prioritise workload effectively.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
- Ability to work independently and use initiative.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Ability to build positive relationships with staff, volunteers, Trustees and external partners.
Personal Qualities
- Passion for arts, theatre and community engagement.
- Flexible and adaptable approach to work.
- Professional, reliable and approachable manner.
- Commitment to the values and aims of Viva Arts and Community Group Ltd.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience working within the charity sector.
- Experience of venue or arts centre management.
- Experience producing touring theatre.
- Knowledge of marketing, audience development or business development.
- Experience managing volunteers.
- Understanding of safeguarding and health & safety requirements within arts venues.
Additional Information
The successful applicant will be expected to work flexibly in accordance with the needs of the organisation, including evenings and weekends where required.
The post holder may also be required to undertake other duties reasonably associated with the role as directed by the Board of Trustees.
Viva Arts and Community Group Ltd is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals.
How to Apply
Please email your CV (maximum two pages) and a covering letter (maximum two pages) outlining in detail why you are applying for the role and how your skills and experience make you a suitable candidate to [email protected]
Application Deadline: Noon on 3rd July 2026
If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact [email protected]
Pay: £33,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
