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Located in the heart of East London, Hackney Empire is celebrated not only for its outstanding artistic work but also for its pioneering role in championing diversity, inclusion, community engagement. Housed in a stunning Grade II* listed building celebrated for its architectural beauty and heritage, Hackney Empire stands as both a cultural and historic landmark. With a proud history of platforming underrepresented voices and engaging meaningfully with one of the most culturally rich communities in the country, the organisation now seeks an exceptional leader to guide it through its next chapter, following a period of considerable success and stability.
Reporting to the Chair and Board of Trustees and serving as Company Secretary, the Chief Executive will have strategic and operational responsibility for the organisation. This includes ensuring the realisation of its artistic vision, financial resilience, organisational effectiveness and community value. In partnership with the Creative Director and senior leadership team, the Chief Executive will shape and deliver Hackney Empire’s future direction while upholding the theatre’s core mission and values.
The successful candidate will be an accomplished senior leader with significant experience within arts and culture. A demonstrable track record in strategic planning, financial management, income generation, strategic planning and stakeholder engagement is essential. The Chief Executive will bring a clear understanding of the importance of balancing artistic ambition with commercial discipline and will possess the leadership and communication skills to inspire confidence across a broad spectrum of partners and communities.
At the heart of this role is a deep and visible commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Hackney Empire stands as a national leader in presenting work that reflects the multiplicity of its audiences and the community it serves. The next Chief Executive will be expected to embed these principles throughout the organisation, ensuring they are reflected in governance, recruitment, programming, partnerships and organisational culture. Financial management is also a core responsibility with the Chief Executive overseeing all aspects of business planning, budgeting and financial risk management. They will work to diversify income streams across public funding, philanthropy and commercial activity, and will play a key role in ensuring long-term organisational sustainability in an evolving cultural and economic landscape.
This is an outstanding opportunity to lead a landmark venue with an iconic identity, a powerful sense of place and a bold artistic agenda. The successful candidate will join Hackney Empire at a moment of renewed energy and ambition, ensuring its continued impact in East London and beyond.
For more information about the role and how to apply please download an information pack from our recruitment consultants, AEM International Ltd, www.aeminternational.co.uk/current-opportunities.
The deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday 16th June 2025. Interviews will be held on Wednesday 9th July and Tuesday 22nd July.
Hackney Empire is open to applications from candidates with a range of experiences in the arts, including management, production, finance and administration. Hackney Empire strives to address the lack of diversity and representation in our industry, and we actively encourage applications from underrepresented backgrounds in theatre. Disabled and D/deaf people are currently under-represented at Hackney Empire, and we will offer an interview to anyone who identifies as D/deaf or disabled if they are able to demonstrate that they meet the Person Specification.
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