Join our Board of Trustees

We are recruiting new Trustees to join our Board

This is an exciting time for the Kenton Theatre which is under new management and is seeking to expand the reach of its artistic, academic and community programmes and ensure best practice. The Trustee Board plays an important role supporting a refreshed purpose and strategic vision alongside a new business plan aimed at ensuring financial stability and business growth.

Opportunities have arisen for The Kenton Theatre Management Society Limited (KTMS) to appoint several new Trustees to the Board to further its charitable aims and reinforce the financial sustainability of the organisation. These are voluntary positions, although reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

We are specifically looking for new Trustees in the following critical areas:

Experience of fundraising. As a key member of the team, you will leverage your experience in grant applications, securing sponsorships, and developing strategic partnerships to help drive our organisation’s fundraising strategy and ensure its financial sustainability. You will partner with an existing Trustee and in conjunction with the Theatre Manager.

Experience of developing education programmes, preferably within the theatrical or creative arts area. However, it is more important that you can demonstrate how to build academic vehicles for people aged 18 years and under. The Trustees and Theatre Manager have outlined several potential programmes which need to be brought to life by an experienced Trustee and the sub-committee which they will lead.

Experience of Governance. As a Trustee with a strong knowledge of charity governance, you will play a key role in the strategic oversight and governance of The Kenton Theatre. You will bring your expertise in governance frameworks, legal compliance, and best practices to ensure the charity is operating in accordance with its objectives and relevant regulations.

Experience of theatrical programming, preferably in regional theatre, to support our ambitions to further raise our game, diversify our developing theatrical and artistic programmes and advise on financial targets for visiting work.

HR experience. As a Board member responsible for overseeing the governance and strategic direction of an organisation, while bringing expertise in Human Resources to the role. They will help ensure that the organisation follows best practices in HR policies, employment law, talent management, diversity and inclusion, and staff well-being.

Previous Board/Trustee experience is not necessary, and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds.

Characteristics

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our Board.

• Independent judgement and the ability to work effectively as a Board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• A strong personal commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our purpose and strategic approach.

The Kenton is in turn-around mode and Trustees are expected to commit significant time to developing and improving their areas of expertise. As a small charity, there are times when the Trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise.

As a Trustee, you will benefit from:

• Induction, training, and reimbursable expenses
• Opportunities to make strategic decisions and develop new skills
• The chance to maintain, improve and advance education in the Arts
• The scope to shape the future of this historic theatre

Membership of The Kenton Theatre Management Society Limited

To be elected a Trustee to the Board you must first be a Member of the KTMS. If you are not already a member, you will need to apply for Membership using the Kenton Theatre Management Membership Form.

To Apply

Please send a CV and covering letter outlining why you would like to become a Trustee and your relevant skills and experience in relation to the role to governance@thekenton.org.uk by 5pm on Friday 23 April 2025.