Polka Theatre
Job Summary
Job Description
Polka Theatre is the groundbreaking home of children’s theatre in the UK with an international reputation, dedicated to empowering children to navigate their world through inspirational theatre and creative experiences. It is a fantastic time to join us, leading our skilled Board of Trustees as we head towards our 50th anniversary year in 2029.
Polka Theatre is now seeking an outstanding and inspirational leader to serve as its next Chair of the Board. This is a pivotal governance role, leading a skilled and committed Board of Trustees and working closely with the Joint Chief Executives to shape and oversee the organisation’s strategic direction. As Chair, you will ensure the highest standards of governance, safeguard Polka’s long-term sustainability, and act as a powerful ambassador for the organisation across the arts, funding and public sectors. You will play a key role in supporting Polka’s mixed funding model, strengthening stakeholder relationships, and guiding the organisation confidently through the opportunities and challenges facing the cultural and charitable landscape.
The ideal candidate will bring significant experience of board leadership and governance, with the ability to provide strategic oversight, sound financial judgement and inclusive, values-led leadership. A passion for the performing arts and a deep commitment to children, communities and equality of access are essential. You will be an excellent communicator and consensus-builder, able to inspire trust and collaboration across trustees, staff, partners and supporters. Combining strategic vision with empathy and integrity, you will help ensure that Polka Theatre continues to thrive as a welcoming, pioneering and impactful organisation for generations of children to come.
Job Requirements
Key Responsibilities
- To ensure that the Board of Trustees fulfils its duties and responsibilities for the proper governance of the charity.
- To ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and that the charity, the Trustees and the Chief Executives are focused on achieving these.
- To act as the charity’s most senior representative and ambassador.
- To be the backstop when the unexpected happens or things go wrong.
The Trustees of the charity act as Directors of the company, and therefore have legal, financial and ethical duties under company law and compliance with charity legislation. This is an unpaid role.
There are four Board meetings per year. The Chair is expected to serve on at least one committee which would involve a further 4 meetings a year. There is regular engagement with senior management. It is estimated that time commitment will be on average 1-2 days a month.
Job Overview
- Job Title: Chair of Trustees
- Salary: Unpaid
- Hours:
Full time - Artform: Theatre
- Role: Fundraising
- Contract: Permanent
- Closing date: Mon, 16 Feb 2026
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Location:
London
Job: Chair of Trustees
Job: Chair of Trustees
Organisation: Polka Theatre
Postcode: SW19 1SB
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