NEWS: New Chief Operating Officer appointed

The role has been created to strengthen and support the existing Executive team of Stephanie Sirr MBE, Chief Executive and Adam Penford, Artistic Director.

The Chief Operating Officer will provide strategic business support to the Chief Executive, as well as leading the Finance, Operations, Commercial and Human Resources teams. With specific responsibilities for effective financial leadership, including capital projects; delivery of efficient operations, commercial and hospitality initiatives; and overseeing all areas of health and safety and compliance, it is a key role in the delivery of Nottingham Playhouse’s business objectives.

Lee has extensive experience in the arts and cultural sector, most recently as Director at Chelmsford Theatre. Prior to that, Lee was Theatre Director at New Theatre Oxford, part of the Ambassador Theatre Group; Theatre Director at the Marina Theatre Trust, Lowestoft and General Manager at Theatre Royal Stratford East.

Lee has held strategic roles covering finance, customer experience, programming, operations and commercial development, and having begun his career in stage management, has a very broad understanding of the demands of a busy producing theatre.

Lee commented:

“I’m thrilled to join Nottingham Playhouse in this new executive role, bringing my energy and passion to one of the UK’s leading regional producing theatres. Nottingham Playhouse’s outstanding reputation and commitment to creating transformative, inclusive theatre is inspiring, and I look forward to working with Stephanie, Adam, the exceptional team, and the Board to contribute to its continued success.”

Stephanie Sirr MBE, Chief Executive of Nottingham Playhouse, said:

“We are delighted to have Lee joining us. His commitment, energy and wealth of industry experience will be invaluable as we continue to develop Nottingham Playhouse. We all look forward to working with him.”

Lee takes up the role of Chief Operating Officer from the end of July 2024.