
RECRUITMENT

Principal
Principal – Performing Arts College
Location: Scotland (with national and international reach)
Salary: Competitive + performance-related incentives
Lead the next chapter of an exceptional performing arts institution
After 35 years of visionary leadership, we are seeking an outstanding Principal to lead one of the UK’s most dynamic and respected performing arts colleges into its next phase of growth and innovation.
Founded in 1994, the college has built a national reputation for excellence in professional training, with graduates working across theatre, television, and the wider creative industries. In recent years, the organisation has reached a series of transformative milestones, including the validation of degree programmes through a UK university partnership and the award of an international sponsorship licence—enabling us to attract emerging talent from across the globe.
We now seek a Principal who can build on this momentum and shape an ambitious, future-facing vision.
The Role
As Principal, you will provide strategic, academic, and operational leadership across all aspects of the college. You will:
-
Set and deliver a compelling vision for the next stage of growth
-
Lead on academic quality, student experience, and outcomes
-
Strengthen and expand higher education provision and partnerships
-
Drive student recruitment both in the UK and internationally
-
Champion industry relevance and professional progression routes
-
Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing staff team
-
Ensure strong financial sustainability and organisational resilience
The Person
We are looking for an exceptional leader with:
-
Proven senior leadership experience within FE, HE, or specialist arts education
-
A strong track record of delivering growth, innovation, and organisational development
-
Deep understanding of performing arts training and/or the creative industries
-
Experience of academic partnerships, quality assurance, and regulatory frameworks
-
Commercial awareness, with the ability to balance creativity and sustainability
-
Inspirational leadership style, with the credibility to engage staff, students, and industry
Why This Role Matters
This is a rare opportunity to lead a well-established, high-performing institution at a pivotal moment in its journey.
You will inherit:
-
A strong brand with national recognition
-
Degree-awarding partnerships and international reach
-
A loyal and talented staff team
-
A clear platform for growth and innovation
And you will have the opportunity to:
-
Shape the future of performing arts training
-
Expand global reach and reputation
-
Build on a powerful legacy while defining your own
To Apply
Please send covering letter and CV to hr@gamta.co.uk
Closing date: Thursday 30th April 2026
Director of Operations – Performing Arts College
Location: Scotland (with national and international reach)
Salary: Competitive + performance-related incentives
The Director of Operations at GAMTA is a senior leadership role responsible for the smooth and effective running of a dynamic performing arts academy. The position ensures high-quality delivery of acting and musical theatre training, overseeing day-to-day operations, staff coordination, student recruitment, and production logistics. Working closely with the Principal/CEO, the role aligns operational strategy with GAMTA’s mission to nurture emerging talent and prepare students for successful careers in the performing arts industry.
Key responsibilities include managing programmes, overseeing the recruitment of students, supporting faculty and staff, maintaining facilities, overseeing safeguarding and wellbeing, and ensuring financial and operational efficiency. The role also plays a central part in building industry partnerships, enhancing systems and processes, and driving continuous improvement across the organisation.
Why Work for GAMTA
GAMTA is an ambitious and forward-thinking Scottish organisation with a strong reputation for excellence in performing arts training. Joining the team offers the opportunity to contribute to a vibrant creative environment that is dedicated to developing the next generation of performers.
As GAMTA continues to expand the size and scope of its programmes and industry reach, this role provides a unique chance to shape and influence the organisation’s future growth. Staff are part of a collaborative, passionate community that values innovation, professionalism, and artistic excellence. Working at GAMTA means being at the heart of an organisation committed not only to high standards, but also to creating meaningful opportunities for students and strengthening its position as a leading force in Scotland’s performing arts sector.
Role Overview
The Director of Operations at GAMTA plays a pivotal leadership role in ensuring the smooth, efficient, and professional running of a high-performing performing arts academy. This role oversees the operational delivery of training programmes in acting, musical theatre, and performance, supporting both staff and students while maintaining the highest standards of educational and artistic excellence.
The postholder will work closely with the Principal/CEO to align operational strategy with GAMTA’s mission to develop emerging talent and prepare students for careers in the performing arts industry.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
-
Oversee day-to-day operations including timetabling, facilities, and programme delivery
-
Coordinate classes, rehearsals, showcases, and performances
-
Implement systems supporting a professional training environment
Programme & Student Experience
-
Ensure quality delivery of acting and musical theatre courses
-
Manage student onboarding, scheduling, and attendance
-
Oversee safeguarding and wellbeing systems
Staff & Faculty Management
-
Lead administrative and operations staff
-
Support faculty scheduling and logistics
-
Assist recruitment and performance management
Facilities & Production
-
Manage studios, rehearsal rooms, and venues
-
Oversee production logistics and events
-
Ensure health & safety compliance
Finance & Resources
-
Support budgeting and financial planning
-
Monitor operational costs
-
Allocate resources efficiently
Partnerships
-
Manage external partners and suppliers
-
Coordinate showcases and industry opportunities
-
Represent GAMTA professionally
-
Manage UKVI applications with the academic team
Strategy & Improvement
-
Improve systems and workflows
-
Use feedback for continuous improvement
-
Support long-term growth strategy
-
Take lead on Business Development of GAMTA
Qualifications & Experience
-
Degree in relevant field or equivalent experience is helful
-
5–8+ years in operations
-
Experience in education, arts, or creative sectors
-
Leadership experience
Skills & Competencies
-
Strong organisation and logistics
-
Passion for performing arts
-
Excellent communication
-
Multi-tasking and problem-solving
-
Financial awareness
KPIs
-
Programme delivery quality
-
Student satisfaction
-
Operational efficiency
-
Staff engagement
-
Budget control
To Apply
Please send covering letter and CV to hr@gamta.co.uk
Closing date: Thursday 30th April 2026
Director of Operations

