Stage Directors UK is the creative industry's newest trade union. Our membership is currently growing and we expect to plateau at approx. 1500 members. Our members work in theatre and opera as directors, movement directors, choreographers as well as fight and intimacy directors. Our members work across subsidised and commercial sectors and are based across the UK. We are currently looking for a new leader to take the union forward, and who will be SDUK's first General Secretary. We are interested in hearing from a range of candidates, and would encourage anyone interested to get in touch for an informal conversation. This is a unique opportunity to set the vision for a brand new trade union, to work with the current membership, and to grow the membership. The role might suit someone with agent experience, or previous experience with a trade union, someone with experience of government, or maybe someone who has a stage management or arts admin background and is looking for a change of direction. Whilst the role is currently part time, expected to be 2 days a week, with flexibility around other commitments. There is the opportunity to grow into a full time role as the union expands. SDUK also supports flexible and hybrid working and welcomes applicants from across the UK. For more information: https://stagedirectorsuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/General-Secretary-job-spec.pdf Person Specification The following experience is required to undertake the role of General Secretary: at least five years working knowledge of the theatre industry, or five years experience within a trade union. be familiar with current and future developments in theatre and the way in which new digital technologies are affecting the rights, rewards and freedoms of directors. well-developed negotiating skills be a confident public speaker be effective at managing staff and delegating responsibilities as appropriate The General Secretary is required To manage negotiations of SDUK and maintain good working relationships with management organisations To liaise with government bodies, agents' associations, cultural institutions, and other entertainment unions To represent SDUK nationally and internationally, and where appropriate obtain legal advice and provide briefings. To supervise and monitor SDUK's finance systems . Develop & strategically plan additional income streams with the aim of establishing substantial and sustainable new income streams. To supervise and delegate the work of staff and freelance contractors in response to members' issues and queries and deal with members' problems as appropriate. To manage other members of staff and manage staff relations, looking to ensure that individuals feel fully informed and valued in their work To delegate responsibilities as appropriate Applications with CV and covering letter to be emailed to [email protected] withJob Summary
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How to Apply
subject header marked ‘General Secretary application’. Deadline for application: Friday 10th October 12
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