Director of Strategy and Commercial

Opera North

Leeds (5 days per fortnight in the office)

  • Location Leeds (5 days per fortnight in the office)
  • Sector Not For Profit
  • Client Opera North
  • Job Type Permanent
  • Salary/Remuneration c£70,000
  • Reference GSe122692
  • Closing Date Friday 4th July

Opera North’s purpose is to create extraordinary experiences every day, using music and opera to entertain, engage, challenge and inspire.

We are looking for a visionary Director of Strategy & Commercial to lead the charge in driving commercial success and delivering strategic growth for one of the UK’s most innovative and inclusive arts organisations.

Opera North believes that opera and music are for everyone, and actively champions diversity across its artists, repertoire, and audiences. We connect with communities and inspire people of all ages—using arts participation and performance to support wellbeing and enrich lives in the cities, towns, and villages we serve.  Based in Leeds, our award-winning work combines a strong regional presence with an international perspective. We tour opera to theatres and concert halls across the North, to London, and to major international festivals. At home, our eclectic programme in the world-class facilities and Howard Assembly Room spans gigs, concerts, spoken word, and film. We are driven by a spirit of boldness and innovation—always seeking fresh ways to create and connect with audiences.

We are proud to be part of the cultural scene of Leeds - the only city in England outside London to have a resident full-time opera company, ballet and repertoire theatre as part of its wider diverse, collaborative and thriving cultural scene.

The Role

This is an exciting new senior leadership role—an opportunity for a bold, visionary leader with big ideas and a values-driven mindset. You’ll join a dynamic and collaborative environment, working alongside an inspiring CEO and ambitious senior leadership team. Together, you’ll help shape the next chapter of the organisation’s journey and:

  • Shape and deliver bold, future-facing strategic and business plans that support artistic ambition and financial sustainability
  • Lead on commercial innovation—driving income through partnerships, venue operations, and new ventures
  • Grow and diversify revenue, unlocking the full value of Opera North’s people, assets, and intellectual property
  • Build meaningful, influential relationships with funders, government, and stakeholders across sectors
  • Champion opera as a vital, inclusive artform—expanding reach, deepening engagement, and making the case for culture across diverse communities and audiences

About You

We’re looking for a strategic thinker and compelling storyteller with:

  • a track record in commercial leadership and business planning
  • experience in profit-driven activity and stakeholder engagement
  • strong financial acumen and the ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams
  • the capacity to advocate for and champion our purpose
  • a passion for the performing arts and a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion

We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and particularly welcome applications from candidates from the global majority or with other protected characteristics.

For a confidential conversation, contact our recruitment partners at GatenbySanderson:

Research Lead, Jennie Wood – jennie.wood@gatenbysanderson.com

Arts, Culture & Heritage Lead, Rebekah Herz-Bauman, Partner – rebekah.herz-bauman@gatenbysanderson.com

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