Theatre Works Invites Expressions of Interest for Future Leadership

ABOUT THEATRE WORKS 

Founded in 1983, Theatre Works is one of Australia’s leading independent theatre companies, supporting the development, presentation, and touring of new performance works. 

Based in St Kilda on Boon Wurrung Country, Theatre Works operates a multi-venue precinct comprising the Main Theatre, Explosives Factory, TWiSK rehearsal space, and the Black Box Café & Outdoor Stage. Each year, the organisation supports hundreds of artists and presents more than 50 productions, playing a vital role within Melbourne’s independent theatre ecology and national new-work landscape. 

Under the leadership of Executive Director Dianne Toulson, Theatre Works has grown significantly in scale, ambition, and profile over the past eight years, building a strong organisational foundation and a deeply embedded artist-first culture. 

THE OPPORTUNITY & CONTEXT 

With Dianne set to step down in 2026, the Theatre Works Board is now seeking new executive leadership with the confidence and experience to steward this complex organisation into its next chapter.  

The incoming leadership will provide operational and financial stability within a vibrant ecosystem that allows theatre artists to flourish. The job requires management acumen and a creative spirit. 

While Theatre Works enters this transition from a position of organisational strength, the broader arts funding environment for the arts remains challenging and uncertain. The Board is therefore seeking leadership that brings a clear-eyed understanding of contemporary funding volatility, income diversification, partnership-driven models, and responsible long-term planning. 

The Board is open to thoughtful evolution in how Theatre Works is led – where such approaches strengthen sustainability, accountability, and organisational health. 

THE LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY 

This is a senior executive leadership role within a complex, multi-venue organisation. 

The Theatre Works Board is interested in hearing from leaders who bring: 

• strong operational and business acumen 

• a proven track record in securing and stewarding diverse funding streams 

• experience managing people, systems, and organisational complexity 

• the ability to work constructively with a Board and key stakeholders 

• confidence navigating risk, scale, and responsibility 

Alongside this, applicants should bring artistic literacy – an understanding of contemporary theatre practice, diverse programming approaches, and how curatorial decisions intersect with audiences, finances, and sector relevance. 

The Board is open to considering different leadership configurations, including sole or shared leadership models, where these support sustainable operations, clear accountability, and strong organisational culture. 

PROCESS AND NEXT STEPS 

At this stage, Theatre Works is inviting Expressions of Interest from potential applicants. 

Interested parties are encouraged to make contact to request the full Leadership Expression of Interest Brief, which outlines responsibilities, organisational and financial context, and submission requirements in detail.  

To request the EOI Brief or to discuss the process in confidence, please contact the Recruitment Committee: 

theatreworksrecruitment@gmail.com 

EOIs are due mid-February. The Theatre Works Board is committed to a considered and confidential process, with shortlisted applicants invited to interview and further discussion. 

LOOKING AHEAD 

Theatre Works has long been a home for ambitious, independent artists and ideas. This leadership transition is an opportunity to build on that legacy with care and intention – ensuring the organisation remains artistically vibrant, operationally strong, and financially sustainable in a challenging cultural landscape. 

Further updates will be shared via Theatre Works’ website and communications channels as the process progresses.