Head of Operations

Bush Theatre; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Bush Theatre is seeking an experienced Head of Operations to manage the day-to-day operations of our venue and oversee all commercial activity. This is an on-site role requiring 35 hours per week across at least five days, with some evenings and weekends as needed.

The role leads front of house, bar and events, coordinating building systems, safety and compliance while supporting capital project planning and wider organisational operations.

Qualifications

• Experience in venue operations or arts administration.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the Bush Theatre, ensuring smooth front-of-house, bar and events.
• Lead the operations team and coordinate building systems and safety compliance.
• Drive the theatre's commercial activities and support capital projects.
• Manage audits, schedules and vendor relationships.

Job description

The Bush Theatre is looking for an experienced, proactive and highly organised Head of Operations to manage the day to day operation of our venue, and oversee all of the company’s commercial activity.

Please note that this position requires working on site.

We welcome applicants with a broad range of experience from both within and outside the arts sector, valuing appropriate transferable skills where they can be articulated with precision and clarity.

Hours: 35 hours per week, across at least 5 days excluding a 1 hour unpaid meal break. Regular evening and weekend work will be required for this role

Rising to 31 days after two years’ service

Rising to 32 days after four years’ service

Probation: Three months

Contract Type: Permanent

Notice period: 1 month during probationary period, 3 months thereafter

Key dates

First Interview date : Friday 13 November 2026 – online

Second Interview date : Thursday 19 November 2026 – in person

Purpose of the role

The Head of Operations is responsible for the smooth and efficient day-to-day running of the Bush Theatre with particular focus on the systems and operations of our building, including overseeing all of our commercial activities. You will lead our front of house, bar and events departments and play a lead role in operations, as well as a supporting role in compliance and capital project planning.

The value of equal opportunities runs through the heart of the organisation. Our diverse team and their range of experiences are vital to the Bush’s success, but we still have work to do to make sure that Bush staff represent the communities we serve. We actively encourage people with different backgrounds to join us. We are particularly keen to receive applications from people of colour and disabled people who are currently underrepresented in our team. All disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria will be invited to interview. If you would like to apply through our Minimum Criteria Guaranteed Interview Scheme, please let us know. You can state anywhere in your application: ‘I would like to apply through the Minimum Criteria Guaranteed Interview scheme.’