We are seeking an exceptional Director of Commercial to lead and transform the commercial operations of RSC Enterprise Ltd. This newly created position is crucial to shaping the future success of the Royal Shakespeare Company, enhancing revenue streams that support our artistic vision and charitable purpose.

The Director of Commercial will be responsible for driving growth across all commercial channels, including food and beverage, retail, licensing, and events. They will lead and execute the commercial business strategy, optimising both online and on-site revenue streams. This role is pivotal in broadening the RSC's financial base, ensuring our audiences enjoy world-class experiences both on-site and online. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer  and working closely with the Senior Leadership Team, the Director of Commercial will focus on maximising sales, increasing secondary spend, and ensuring an exceptional customer experience.

Key responsibilities

• Developing a cohesive online and on-site secondary spend strategy for cafes, restaurants, and shops
• Identifying and launching new revenue streams such as corporate/private events and costume hire
• Driving retail and eCommerce innovation, enhancing the RSC's retail presence as a leader in the cultural sector
• Strengthening relationships with key business partners, such as joint ventures and licensing deals
• Overseeing day-to-day commercial operations, ensuring alignment with RSC's artistic programme and brand vision
• Full accountability for commercial performance, meeting and exceeding sales, profit, and performance targets across all channels
• Setting KPIs and strategic objectives to drive business growth and team development
• Collaborating across departments to align customer engagement and spending with RSC's goals
• Ensuring world-class customer service and product knowledge across all commercial platforms

The Person

Candidates should bring all or most of the following qualities and experience:

• Proven track record in growing revenue and exceeding commercial targets
• Extensive experience in commercial operations, particularly in retail, F&B, and events
• Senior leadership experience managing multi-disciplinary teams
• Strong P&L responsibility with experience in budget management and cost efficiencies
• Expertise in CRM and customer journey development, with a data-driven approach
• Ability to negotiate successful commercial partnerships and manage third-party contracts
• A tastemaker with a strong understanding of contemporary retail and event trends, aligned with RSC brand values
• A visionary leader, able to inspire and influence teams to execute the commercial strategy
• Results-driven and pragmatic, capable of making tough decisions to meet commercial objectives
• An entrepreneurial mindset, able to maximise the impact of limited budgets and foster a culture of innovation

Location and working hours

This is a full-time position, based primarily in Stratford-upon-Avon, with occasional travel to London and other locations as needed. The role requires 40 hours per week, including occasional evening and weekend work.

Salary: £90,000 per annum, plus benefits

Application Process

The RSC is exclusively partnered with Congregation for this search, for further information about the role please contact Matt Wells matt@congregation.io.

If you wish to apply, please use the RSC website where you will be asked to complete an online application form, which will require you to upload your CV together with a supporting statement. If you need technical assistance, please contact Rachel.lloyd@rsc.org.uk

Interviews will be held in two stages, commencing in late November.

About the RSC

The RSC strives for excellence, and values creativity, inclusivity, sustainability, collaboration, and accountability. 

We can offer great benefits and aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment which is happy, healthy and safe. We place great importance upon developing a diverse, highly motivated and energised workforce to help achieve our priorities. We put our values at the heart of everything we do.

We are committed to building a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all individuals.

The Royal Shakespeare Company (no. 212481) is a registered charity.