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We’re recruiting: Executive Director

We are looking for an inspiring, collaborative and experienced Executive Director to join our team and help shape the next chapter of our ambitious children’s theatre company. Founded in Leeds in 1991, we create imaginative, joyful and meaningful theatre for children and families. Our work reaches audiences across the UK and internationally, from theatres and [read more]

We are looking for an inspiring, collaborative and experienced Executive Director to join our team and help shape the next chapter of our ambitious children’s theatre company.

Founded in Leeds in 1991, we create imaginative, joyful and meaningful theatre for children and families. Our work reaches audiences across the UK and internationally, from theatres and arts centres to schools, libraries and rural communities.

This is an exciting time to join Tutti Frutti. We have ambitious plans for the future, strong creative foundations, an established international touring programme and a growing commitment to our local community through projects including the Tutti Frutti Club.

About the role

Working closely with our Artistic Director and Board of Trustees, the Executive Director will provide strategic, financial and operational leadership, helping Tutti Frutti to remain financially resilient, well governed and able to realise its artistic ambitions.

You will lead on areas including organisational planning, financial management, fundraising, governance, business development, sustainability and international development, while building strong relationships with funders, partners, artists and stakeholders.

You’ll be joining a passionate team committed to creating high-quality theatre that puts children at its heart, alongside a diverse Board of Trustees and a network of freelance artists and creative practitioners.

What we’re looking for

We’re seeking an experienced leader with a strong understanding of the arts, cultural or charitable sector, alongside experience in strategic planning, financial management, fundraising and organisational development.

You’ll be collaborative, organised and confident, with excellent communication and relationship-building skills. We’re particularly interested in candidates with experience of touring theatre, international partnerships, children and family audiences, or environmental sustainability.

Most importantly, you’ll share Tutti Frutti’s values and be committed to creating positive experiences for children and families, supporting a happy and inclusive workplace, and helping the organisation grow sustainably.

Key details

Salary: £48,000–£52,000 per annum pro rata, depending on experience, plus 6% pension contribution
Hours: 30 hours per week, over four days
Contract: Permanent, employed PAYE
Location: Hope House, Leeds, with blended working and a minimum of two days per week in the office
Start date: Ideally December 2026

We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds and positively encourage D/deaf and disabled people and/or people from the global majority to apply. We guarantee an interview to candidates who meet the relevant skills, values and experience criteria. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process.

How to apply

To apply, please complete this application questions and anonymous equal opportunities monitoring form and send your application to kirsty@tutti-frutti.org.uk.

Applications close at 12pm on Monday 21 October 2026.

We’re interested in what you say rather than how you say it. Applications can be submitted in written English, video, BSL/spoken English/SSE, audio or bullet-point format. Alternative formats and support with completing the application are available on request.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Mark Hollander at mark@markhollander.co.uk.