Working closely with the CEO and Senior Leadership Team, the Creative Director will steward the artistic programme of the theatre, building partnerships, commissioning new work and ensuring the organisation’s creative output remains rooted in Oldham while reaching beyond it.

This is a senior leadership role within a publicly funded theatre that combines artistic ambition with civic responsibility. 

Contract: Permanent, 4 days per week 

Salary: £60,000 pro rata  

Location: Oldham (with flexible and hybrid working options)

This is a rare opportunity to help shape the future of a historic theatre at a pivotal moment in its story. 

Oldham Coliseum Theatre has long been recognised as one of the North West’s most important producing theatres, with a legacy of developing artists and creating work that resonates far beyond its borough. 

Following a period of closure and transition, the organisation is entering a new chapter. As plans progress towards reopening the theatre’s historic building, the Coliseum is also developing a broader Cultural Campus vision — one that connects artists, communities and creative pathways across the borough. 

This moment presents both challenge and possibility. 

The next Creative Director will help shape the artistic identity of the organisation during this period of reinvention — contributing to a theatre that is rooted in Oldham while speaking confidently to national audiences. 

Working closely with the CEO and a committed team, the Creative Director will play a central role in building a theatre that is collaborative, artist-led and deeply connected to the community it serves. 

This is not simply a programming role. 

It is an opportunity to help shape a civic cultural institution for the future.

Artistic Leadership Develop and articulate a clear artistic vision aligned with the ethos and ambitions of Oldham Coliseum Theatre.

Programme Development Shape and deliver the artistic programme through commissioning, partnerships and collaboration.

Strategic Collaboration Work with the CEO and colleagues across the organisation to embed artistic thinking within wider organisational planning.

Community Engagement Develop meaningful relationships with communities across Oldham ensuring local voices shape the programme.

Artist Development Create pathways for emerging and established artists.

Production Oversight Champion artistic quality across productions while encouraging innovation.

The Creative Director will play an important role in leading and supporting colleagues across the organisation. 

This includes:

Supporting team development and performance

Leading through organisational change

Upholding governance and organisational policies

Creating a supportive and accountable working culture

Applicants should submit: 

A CV

A covering letter (maximum two pages)

Closing date for applications: 

13 April 2026 

Please submit to: recruitment@coliseum.org.uk  

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in a two‑stage interview process. 

Oldham Coliseum Theatre is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace. 

We encourage applications from individuals currently underrepresented in the arts sector and recognise that leadership journeys can take many different forms. 

Reasonable adjustments will be made throughout the recruitment process where required.