SENIOR MANAGER: PROGRAMMING (Soweto Theatre)

The Joburg City Theatres (JCT), an entity of the City of Johannesburg that stimulates and operates Joburg Theatre, Roodepoort Theatre and Soweto Theatre to provide the integrated management of theatre is seeking a skilled and experienced Senior Manager Programming to join the JCT team.

Primary Function The Senior Manager

Programming is responsible for leading the planning, development, implementation and delivery of Soweto Theatre’s artistic programme in support of the Joburg City Theatres’ strategic, artistic and commercial objectives. The role oversees the full production lifecycle, from programme development and budgeting to production delivery and post-production evaluation, while ensuring compliance with the applicable legislative framework, governance requirements and organisational policies.

Key Performance Areas

• Develop and implement an annual artistic and programming plan aligned to the organisational Strategy, Business Plan and Artistic Policy.

• Identify, evaluate, and manage a diverse programme of productions, festivals, touring productions, and special events that support audience development, transformation, and revenue growth.

• Lead the planning, coordination and delivery of theatre productions from concept to closing, ensuring quality, budget and schedule compliance.

• Develop and monitor production budgets, financial forecasts and revenue performance, implementing corrective action where required.

• Coordinate production schedules, creative teams, artists, technical departments and operational stakeholders to ensure seamless programme delivery.

• Oversee the acquisition of production rights, licensing and contractual processes in accordance with organisational policies and delegated authority.

• Work closely with Marketing to develop ticket pricing recommendations, audience development initiatives and promotional campaigns that maximise attendance and revenue.

• Monitor ticket sales, production performance and audience trends, using data and market insights to inform programming decisions.

• Build and maintain strategic relationships with producers, artists, promoters, funding partners and industry stakeholders to expand programming opportunities.

• Manage Performing Arts Residencies, developmental programmes and strategic partnerships that support talent development and the growth of the performing arts sector.

• Ensure compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), Supply Chain Management policies, labour legislation, health and safety requirements, copyright legislation and all organisational governance frameworks.

• Prepare management reports, evaluate programme performance and recommend continuous improvements to enhance artistic excellence, operational efficiency and financial sustainability.

• Stay abreast of local and international performing arts trends and identify innovative opportunities that strengthen Soweto Theatre’s position as a leading performing arts institution.

Leading Competencies

• Visionary leadership - Develops and implements a compelling artistic and programming vision aligned with organisational strategy.

• Innovation and creativity - Identifies new programming opportunities, introduces innovative concepts, and responds to changing audience preferences.

• Strategic partnership management - Builds and maintains relationships with artists, producers, sponsors, government departments, and other stakeholders.

• Change leadership - Leads organisational and programme changes effectively while managing stakeholder expectations.

• Talent development and coaching - Develops, mentors, and empowers staff to achieve high performance.

• Commercial and business acumen - Balances artistic excellence with financial sustainability and revenue generation.

• Negotiation and influencing - Successfully negotiates with artists, promoters, sponsors, and strategic partners.

• Risk management- Identifies and mitigates operational, financial, legal, and reputational risks associated with programming.

• Performance management - Sets measurable objectives, monitors performance, and ensures delivery against organisational targets.

• Stakeholder engagement - Represents the organisation professionally and fosters strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Core Competencies

• Strategic thinking and planning

• Leadership and people management

• Communication and interpersonal skills

• Customer and stakeholder focus

• Financial management and budget control

• Project and programme management

• Problem-solving and decision-making

• Planning and organising

• Governance, ethics and integrity

• Results orientation and accountability

Minimum requirements

• Bachelor's degree (NQF Level 7) in Performing Arts, Arts Management, Theatre Production, Business Management or a related field.

• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in theatre production, arts programming, performing arts management or event management in the entertainment industry, including 5 years in a middle-management role.

• Proven experience in production planning, budgeting, project management, contract administration and stakeholder engagement.

• Sound knowledge of the South African performing arts sector, audience development, commercial programming or event management in the entertainment industry.

• Strong leadership, financial management, communication and relationship management skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management systems.

R58,324.06 (Basic Salary, excluding Benefits)

If interested and meet minimum requirements, kindly send your CV, cover letter and qualifications to:

Name: Mxolisi Makhasana

Email: ***email_hidden***