General Manager

Salary: £25-30,000

Bridport Electric Palace is seeking a dynamic and experienced General Manager to lead our independent cinema and arts venue. 

The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the venue’s operations, including business strategy, financial management, programming, marketing, and team leadership. The ideal candidate will have a passion for the arts exceptional leadership and communication skills, and the ability to drive the venue’s success both creatively and financially. The ability to expertly prioritise and juggle tasks is essential, tip-top organisation is a must.

As custodians of this cultural and architectural gem, we strive to present a varied programme of film, theatre, music and comedy for the local community and ensure this much-loved Bridport icon is here for generations to come!

Role details

• Permanent
• 25 to 30 hrs p/week

Role responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Business Development:

You will develop, implement, and regularly review a 3-year business plan for the venue, ensuring alignment with the venue’s vision and long-term goals. You will help shape the future of the venue.

Maximize income generation and minimize operational expenses through effective budget management.

Team Leadership & Development:

Lead, motivate, and manage the venue’s team, including recruitment, training, performance appraisals, and handling disciplinary matters.

As well as leading the team, you must be flexible and will be expected to roll your sleeves up and ‘get stuck in’ where needed. On occasion, you may need to cover the duty manager.

Conduct weekly team meetings, ensuring clear communication and actioning agreed upon tasks.

Ensure a high standard of customer service is maintained. Provide a welcoming environment offering memorable experiences for all patrons.

Staff payroll & timesheet management

Event Programming & Operations:

Work with our programming manager to plan and execute a diverse, year-round program of events, including film, music, comedy, theatre, dance, and private hires (weddings, parties, and corporate events etc). To include reporting on venue usage and profitability.

Marketing & Audience Engagement:

Develop and execute an advertising & marketing strategy to promote events and grow both audience and attendance. To include a multi-channel approach utilising print, social media, email, website and digital media.

Lead the management of the venue’s website and social media platforms to boost customer engagement.

Financial Oversight & Reporting:

Work with the Accounts Manager to produce timely financial reports, including cash flow forecasts, quarterly P&L, and monthly bar P&L.

Approve budgets for promoter contracts, ensuring the financial viability of each event.

Ensure the accurate and timely settlement of promoter accounts, including detailed box office returns.

Bar Management:

Work with the Bar Manager to improve profitability of the bar and ensure smooth day to day operations.

Health & Safety Compliance:

Oversee and work with the Duty Manager to Implement, manage, and regularly review the venue’s health and safety policies. Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, including fire and building safety standards. Maintain the integrity of the building, coordinating repairs and addressing any safety concerns promptly.

Person specification

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team.
• Excellent financial acumen, including budget management and reporting.
• Extensive experience in events and marketing, ideally within a cultural or arts-based environment.
• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Understanding of health and safety legislation and venue compliance requirements.
• A passion for the arts and a strong understanding of the cultural sector, including music, comedy, theatre and cinema.
• Experience with Spektrix is an advantage.

How to apply

Please email your CV and cover letter to: FEEDBACK@ELECTRICPALACE.ORG.UK 

Employee benefits

• Competitive salary
• Opportunity to be part of a vibrant arts and culture venue and to make your mark in the history of this much-loved Bridport icon.
• Professional development opportunities
• Access to all events

The closing date for this position is 28/04/2025 at 23:59