Head of Operations and Business Development

VINCENT DANCE THEATRE-1; Brighton; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A performing arts organization in Brighton seeks an experienced Head of Operations and Business Development to implement its ambitious Commercial Strategy. The role requires a commercially minded leader with strong skills in operations, management, and partnership building. Candidates with business management experience in any sector are encouraged to apply. The position involves driving growth, operational excellence, and the development of new income streams while collaborating closely with a small team.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in operations and company management.
• Proven ability in partnership building and income generation.
• Experience as a Business Manager, Operations Director, or Senior Producer is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Implement the ambitious Commercial Strategy and drive growth.
• Collaborate with staff to deliver the company’s Business Plan.
• Identify opportunities and manage programmes for income generation.

Skills

Operational excellence

Management skills

Partnership building

Negotiating contracts

Lead generation

Organisational development

Job description

Are you a commercially minded, senior leader with strong experience in operations, company management, partnership building and income generation?

VDT is seeking an experienced Head of Operations and Business Development to spearhead the implementation of our ambitious new Commercial Strategy, driving growth and expanding income streams.

This is a crucial, high-impact role for someone who thrives on operational excellence, has excellent management skills and a passion for strategy implementation. It is ideal for someone with strong experience in partnership building, negotiating contracts, lead generation and organisational development.

Working closely with the Chief Executive / Artistic Director, the role works collaboratively across the small staff team to deliver the company’s Business Plan, Funding Agreement, Mission and Values. You will identify opportunities, generate new leads and manage the company’s wide range of production, participation and continued professional development programmes. You will grow a new customer base for our online training and e-learning and develop income from within arts academic and social enterprise settings. You will track progress and ensure the company is run in line with best practice.

You might not have worked in the arts or creative industries before. If you have experience as a Business Manager, Operations Director, Executive Director or Senior Producer within or outside of the cultural/charity sector, then you’ll have the core skills we are looking for.

Closing date for applications: Midday Tuesday 6 January 2026

Interview Date: Thursday 15 January 2026