Trustee

Job Title: Trustee

Are you passionate about theatre and committed to making the arts accessible to all? Reading Rep Theatre is seeking new trustees to join our Board during a pivotal moment of growth, innovation, and creative ambition.

We are especially keen to hear from individuals with experience in commercial and/or subsidised theatre producing, finance, fundraising, or community engagement—particularly those with knowledge of or connections within the South-East, and ideally Greater Reading.

We also actively encourage applications from those with lived experience of disability or who identify as disabled, as we continue our commitment to ensuring our Board better reflects the diverse communities we serve.

About the Role

Reading Rep Theatre is a multi-award-winning charity at the heart of the Reading community. We produce bold, high-quality theatrical productions while offering transformative opportunities through our Creative Learning programme.

Our mission is simple but powerful: to transform lives through theatre by breaking down barriers to access and ensuring everyone—regardless of background—can participate in and experience the arts.

As a trustee, you’ll help shape the future of Reading Rep Theatre. Trustees play a vital role in:

• Guiding our strategic direction
• Upholding strong governance
• Championing our values of inclusivity and excellence

You’ll bring your perspective, experience, and insight to support the leadership team and help drive the theatre forward.

Person Specification

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, especially those who:

Have experience working within:

• Commercial and/or Subsided Theatre Producing, Financem, Education and/or Community Outreach.
• Have lived experience of disability or identify as disabled.
• Are based in, or have strong ties to, the South-East or Greater Reading area.
• Are committed to improving access to the arts
• Bring a fresh perspective and a passion for inclusivity

No previous trustee experience is required—just enthusiasm, integrity, and a desire to make a difference.

Statutory Responsibilities

As defined by the Charity Commission, the statutory responsibilities of Trustees are to:

• Ensure the charity is carrying out its purpose for the public benefit
• Comply with the charity’s governing document and the law
• Act in the charity’s best interests
• Manage the charity’s resources responsibly
• Act with reasonable care and skill
• Ensure the charity is accountable

Additional Responsibilities:

• Actively contribute to the strategic vision, leadership and development of Reading Rep
• Provide ongoing support and advice to the Executive Team
• Ensure appropriate policies are in place to underpin the effective operations of Reading Rep
• Be a champion of Reading Rep and advocate for the work that we do
• Act as a signatory for the charity as needed
• All staff are expected to take an active part in the artistic life of the organisation.

Time Commitment:

• Trustees meet quarterly, with occasional additional meetings and opportunities to attend events. 
• In addition, time will be needed to study meeting papers and attend a variety of events hosted by Reading Rep.
• The role is voluntary, but we can reimburse reasonable expenses.
• Board meetings are held either online, or when possible in person.

We actively encourage people from a variety of backgrounds with different skills and stories to join us and influence and develop our working practise. We are particularly keen to hear from people of colour and candidates who self-identify as disabled. Reading Rep Theatre is committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, caring responsibilities, disability, gender, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.

How to apply

We welcome video applications, or other formats that may suit your needs. 

Please put Trustee in the subject line of your email. 

Please also complete an Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form. 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdi0OIPMmkoGrYiU1ay4fAekws0kJgknevdb9R1LRLyXj54-A/viewform