Current Vacancies

Are you passionate about supporting growth? Do you have an interest in digital art or a love for exceptional theatre? Can you appreciate the transformative power of arts engagement in changing lives? If you have experience in the care sector, youth poverty, or the criminal justice system, along with a background in governance and board experience, we want to hear from you.

What will you be doing?

You will be the chair of the Trustee Board of PlayingOn which is a UK based theatre charity that uses high-quality, socially engaged theatre to promote social inclusion and raise awareness of issues affecting people who are marginalised or at risk of exclusion.  We work across youth justice, probation, care-experienced communities, education and health, collaborating with people with lived experience alongside professional artists to create work that is authentic, ambitious and transformative.

Our programmes combine participatory theatre-making, trauma-informed practice and co-creation to support personal growth, confidence, communication and social connection.  Alongside live performance, we are increasingly developing digital and hybrid models to extend our reach, deepen engagement and share learning more widely.

PlayingON is at an exciting point in its development.  We are moving from a project-to-project model towards longer-term sustainability, with growing strategic partnerships, multi-year funding ambitions and a clear vision for scale, impact and organisational resilience.

What are we looking for?

PlayingON is seeking to appoint a committed, thoughtful and values-driven Chair to lead our Board of Trustees.

The Chair will work closely with the CEO / Artistic Director and Executive Director to support the organisation through its next phase of growth, helping to strengthen governance, sharpen strategic focus and champion PlayingON’s mission at a senior level.

This is a pivotal leadership role, offering the opportunity to shape the future direction of a respected and artistically ambitious charity working at the intersection of theatre, social justice and public services.

We are looking for a Chair who brings:

• Senior-level leadership experience, with the credibility and confidence to chair meetings effectively and foster inclusive, productive discussion.

• A strong understanding of good charity governance, or the ability to develop this quickly.

• Strategic thinking skills, with experience of organisational growth, change or consolidation.

• The ability to build trusting relationships with executive staff and fellow trustees.

• A commitment to PlayingON’s mission and values, and a belief in the power of theatre and creativity to effect social change.

• Experience of fundraising, income diversification or financial oversight within the charity or cultural sector.

• Knowledge of one or more of PlayingON’s key areas or work (e.g. care-experienced young people, education, probation, health or social justice).

• Networks that could support PlayingON’s development, partnerships or profile.

The difference you will make:

You will support PlayingON, its executives, its board and its project teams achieve its longer term sustainability and grow its societal impact.

Time commitment and terms of appointment:

• The Board meets four times per year, usually in person.

• In addition, the Chair will have regular contact with the CEO / Artistic Director and Executive Director, and occasional involvement in sub-committees, events or external meetings. It is anticipated that weekly hours are 3-7 pw.

• The appointment is for an initial term of three years, with the possibility of renewal in line with the governing document.

• This is an unremunerated role. Reasonable travel and other agreed expenses. Will be reimbursed.

How to apply:

To apply, please send to marsaili@playingon.org.uk by 30th March:

• A short covering letter outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience.

• A CV