Director of Operations

• Full time
• £50k+

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 "> published - Tue, 10 Nov 2026

Job Summary

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced senior manager to join us as the Director of Operations and be part of the senior management at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre.

Job Description

The post holder will work to ensure the delivery of effective and efficient operations across key areas of customer facing, front of house and administrative activities ensuring audiences, customers, stakeholders and staff receive a high quality experience.

We are in search of a professional with a proven track record of leading and delivering across the organisation for people, processes and compliance; ensuring that all aspects of operations at the theatre work together seamlessly and effectively to deliver the theatre's vision and values.

The role would suit a strategic doer and problem-solver, keen to implement sensible systems that deliver and bring out the best in people, who will be a visible presence around the theatre.

Job Requirements

Be able to lead, motivate and maximise the strengths of both individuals and teams.
Excellent planning, prioritisation, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Excellent inter-personal skills, with the ability to build strong professional relationships both internally and externally.
Excellent written skills, with an eye for detail.
Ability to communicate effectively at all levels and in a variety of situations.
Excellent budget management skills and financial record keeping.
Ability to work effectively as a member of the Senior Management Team.
Thorough understanding of the areas under line of management.
Knowledge of the law, policy and practice for employment matters; health and safety; and environmental sustainability, keeping up to date in changes/trends/requirements in these areas.

Job Responsibilities

Ensure that all areas of the theatre's customer facing operations meet the need of the theatre's audiences and customers, providing excellent positive customer experience.
Lead on workforce planning and implementation for the areas under line of management, keeping existing operations under review and identifying areas for continuous improvement.
Line management of Front of House, Box Office, Catering and Buildings and Facilities. Developing those staff under direct line of management so that they are motivated and trained to carry out their responsibilities to the required standard.
Establish, monitor and evaluate agreed policies, procedures, objectives and targets for each of the areas under line of management.
Ensure delivery of all services under line of management within agreed budgets.
Undertake budget preparation, execute effective budget management and maintain accurate financial records.
Support the Buildings and Facilities Manager with IT provision.

Useful Links

• https://www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk/our-venue?_gl=1*pennpn*_up*MQ..*_ga*MjA5Nzk2ODk…

Job Overview

• Job Title: Director of Operations
• Salary: £50k+
• Hours: Full time
• Artform: Theatre
• Role: Customer Service
• Contract: Permanent
• Closing date: Mon, 07 Dec 2026
• Location:

  South East

  | view on Google Maps

Job: Director of Operations

Job: Director of Operations

Organisation: Yvonne Arnaud Theatre

Postcode: GU1 3UX

How to Apply

Further information and the application form are available on our website https://www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk/our-venue/jobs to be completed along with a covering letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role, the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form and CV (optional).
Please email your application form and covering letter to: eswayne@yvonne-arnaud.co.uk by 12:00pm on Monday, 7th December.

• Contact name: Emma Swayne
• Contact email: eswayne@yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

About Yvonne Arnaud Theatre

Theatre providing the people of Guildford, Surrey and beyond with excellent vibrant drama and entertainment since 1965.

Find out more