7 January 2026
Open
Arts Centre General Manager
Southwold, Suffolk, IP18
The employer
Southwold Arts Centre is a vibrant, inclusive arts and community venue located in St Edmund’s Hall, a historic theatre building at the heart of Southwold. Managed by Sole Bay Arts CIO, a registered charity, the Centre presents over 170 events each year, including theatre, music, film, comedy, festivals and community activities.
Our mission is to deliver high-quality, inspirational and accessible cultural experiences to audiences across Southwold, Suffolk, Norfolk and beyond. We are committed to inclusivity, affordability, sustainability and community engagement, and we work in close partnership with local organisations, artists and volunteers to strengthen the region’s cultural life.
The job
We are seeking a driven and creative General Manager to lead the day-to-day operations and future development of Southwold Arts Centre. This newly established role is integral to the organisation’s leadership and offers significant opportunity to shape the Centre’s strategic direction.
The General Manager will oversee programming, venue operations, staff, volunteers and freelancers, while working closely with the Board of Trustees to ensure financial sustainability, compliance and long-term success. The role balances artistic, commercial and community objectives and plays a key part in expanding our reach to broader and more diverse audiences.
What you'll need
We are looking for an ambitious, future-focused individual with a genuine passion for the arts and community engagement.
You do not need to meet every criterion — we value enthusiasm, leadership potential and a proactive mindset.
Essential experience and qualities include:
At least three years’ management experience in the arts, cultural or non-profit sectors
Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills
Experience of financial management, fundraising and budget oversight
Ability to manage a busy programme of events and venue operations
Collaborative and inclusive working style
Flexibility to work evenings and weekends
Where you'll be based
Primarily venue-based, including evenings and weekends, with some remote working possible.
What you'll receive
£35,000 per annum, dependent on skills and experience
37.5 hour working week
20 days’ annual leave plus statutory holidays (in lieu where applicable)
Workplace contributory pension scheme (3% employer, 5% employee)
Opportunity to shape the future of a renowned arts and community venue
Supportive, creative and passionate working environment
High degree of autonomy with guidance from an engaged Board of Trustees
Find out more
To apply for this position please send your CV to sac.recruitment@icloud.com for the attention of Michael Rowan-Robinson