TAUNTON THEATRE ASSOCIATION LIMITED

TAUNTON THEATRE ASSOCIATION LTD
COAL ORCHARD, TAUNTON, TA1 1JL

Join our Board as a Trustee/Director and
support our work in bringing great art and entertainment to the SouthWest

Thank  you  for  your  interest  in  becoming  a  trustee  with  Taunton  Theatre  Association,  operator  of
Taunton Brewhouse.  Here, you will find brief information about what we do and hold dear, about our
history and plans as well as how we are organised and funded.   We comment on time commitments
involved in being a trustee as well as our thoughts on what you might think of as benefits.

We look for individuals who are representative of our community and who can bring governance
skills from different backgrounds.  You will share our interest in and passion for the arts.

About Taunton Theatre Association (TTA)

Our mission
At Taunton Brewhouse,  TTA brings performance  and visual art to the centre of Somerset’s  County
Town.  We welcome people locally and from further afield, to enjoy and participate in a programme
of bold and brilliant artistic and creative experiences that inspire and transform our individual and
shared experience of the world.

Our vision
We  imagine  a  future  where  people  and  communities  are  liberated  through  artistic  expression,
becoming connected and considered equal.

Our values
Welcoming:
Bold:
Collaborative:

Resilient:

We value open hearts, open minds, and welcome all to Taunton Brewhouse
We value bold artists and bold ideas, inspiring locally and globally
We  believe  meaningful  collaborations  can  change  the  world.    We  work
together to create, play and learn
We  are  committed  to  remaining  Taunton’s  enduring  centre  for  creative
excellence.

Our back story
Taunton Brewhouse was built in 1977 on the site of an old brewery as a purpose designed theatre.
Taunton Theatre Association (TTA), building on the long history of performance at the site, became
theatre operator in 2014.   Since then, TTA has established a strong presence in the SouthWest with a
broad programme of performing arts from local and touring companies, including an annual in-house
Christmas  musical with community ensemble working alongside  professional performers.  We  also
offer curated films and live transmissions from national/international venues, a revolving programme
of exhibitions, and arts activities for all.  We seek funding to continue our Distillery Programme that
supports the development of new work by SouthWest artists.

Attached to an 18th Century Brewmaster’s House on the Bank of the River Tone we sit alongside the
new Coal Orchard development in the independent quarter of central Taunton.    There, we welcome
all to our 350-seat auditorium and separate studio theatre as well as to enjoy our art gallery, creative
hub, and refreshment facilities.

Our small  team  of professional  staff  are  supported by enthusiastic  volunteers who add a different
dimension to our work and root us firmly in our community.  Although times are always challenging
for the arts, our people are endlessly resourceful and resilient.

Our plans for the future
Our focus now is on developing the artistic programme at the venue and beyond, fully optimising our
resources whilst  developing other ways to reach out into the  community and our region  to better
meet audience needs.

We are increasing the use of the building, diversifying income streams, and taking every opportunity
to welcome people to Taunton Brewhouse.  Daytime offers complement our evening programme, and
we want to redevelop our public spaces so that residents and visitors to the town centre can enjoy
them whether or not they are engaging with our creative programme.  Our space is one that artists
regularly visit to develop new ideas and concepts, which we share with audiences.

The artistic vision for Taunton Brewhouse will continue to grow and develop.  The Main Auditorium
will continue to drive healthy ticket sales through a unique and distinctive programme.  We will bring
the best of UK touring from the country’s most significant companies presenting original music, plays
and  comedy  as  well  as  the  best  of  independent  film,  restored  classics,  and  event  screenings  from
important  world  stages  to  our  cinema.      Our  studio  programme  focusses  on  developing  local  and
regional artists and their work.  Our Creative hub offers a programme of life-long learning for adults
while our Youth Theatre offers opportunities for young people in all areas of our activity.

Beyond our building we learn from our digital projects and work in strategic partnerships to present
performance in other spaces and venues across the region.

Our governance
Taunton  Theatre  Association  Ltd  is  a  registered  charity,  and  company  limited  by  guarantee.  It  is
governed  by  a  board  of  trustees/directors  with  a  broad  range  of  expertise  currently  covering  the
performing  arts,  music,  cinema,  strategic  planning,  management,  finance  and  legal.  Trustees  are
responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation.  Representatives
from  our  Local  Authority  as  funders  and  landlord  also  attend  meetings.      The  Board  supports  the
Executive Director and staff team to deliver the charity’s objectives, while upholding its values.   TTA
Taunton Brewhouse encourages an open culture where volunteers play a key role in supporting the
employed staff team. Trustees, who are also volunteers, are invited to share their skills, perspectives,
and experience to support the development of the Company.

A wholly owned subsidiary, TTA Trading Ltd with its own Board, operates our non-charitable activities
and covenants its surplus to the charity.   The two companies form the ‘group’.

Our funding
TTA receives a grant from our Local Authority (from April 2023 Somerset Council), which is also the
Landlord, and bids for funds from grant-making trusts including Arts Council England. TTA also receives
an annual donation from its trading subsidiary.   However, most funds are raised through the sale of
tickets for performance and events.

What we expect of trustees
The Board normally meets 4 times a year for approximately 2 hours in early evening (6.30 pm start)
plus  an  away  ‘day’  and  the  Annual  General  Meeting  (evening).      Most  meetings  are  in  person  at
Taunton Brewhouse, but we also use Zoom especially for monthly updates.

Trustees are part of sub committees or are identified with a specific responsibility.   Some committees
meet regularly; others are project or issue based.  At present these groups/responsibilities include:

●  Finance
●  Development and Fundraising
●  Representative on TTA Trading, our trading subsidiary
●  Environment
●  Safeguarding
●  Recruitment
●  Risk Management

We expect Trustees to:
•
•  help  in  promoting  Taunton  Brewhouse  programmes  and  activities  to  current  and  potential

share our passion for the arts and to support our mission for Taunton Brewhouse

stakeholders and audiences

•  become familiar with our business and financial models, policies, and procedures

offer support with personal experience and expertise where relevant.

We aim to provide trustees with opportunities to:
•

contribute to the development of TTA Taunton Brewhouse as a significant resource for performing
and visual arts in Taunton and the South-west

•  use experience to help with the challenges of maintaining a busy arts venue, actively engaging

with strategic decisions, and planning to ensure TTA Taunton Brewhouse thrives

•  participate in cultural events at our venue and in Taunton
•  work alongside other board  members,  staff,  and volunteers  from a wide range  of professional

backgrounds and develop leadership and governance skills and experience.

Terms
There are no defined periods of office, but each year one-third of the Board offer themselves for re-
election.

The  trustee  role  is  unpaid  although  expenses  incurred  on  our  behalf  can  be  reimbursed  by  prior
agreement.

We want our Board to be representative of all sections of society and actively welcome candidates
meeting the criteria but who may be under-represented in arts and culture.

For more information about the role of a Trustee and how to apply or to have an informal discussion
before applying, please see the following Job Description.

Taunton Theatre Association Limited
Taunton Brewhouse, Coal Orchard, Taunton, TA1 1JL
www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk
Charity Reg in England & Wales No 1156472  Company Reg No 865085

TAUNTON THEATRE ASSOCIATION:  TRUSTEE JOB DESCRIPTION

As a member of the Taunton Theatre Association board of trustees, key responsibilities include:

•  agreeing the strategy and goals for the charity, Taunton Theatre Association
•  appointing, and setting salaries for, senior management
•  giving oversight and support to management
•  ensuring due diligence in all regulatory matters
•  paying attention to financial management
•  ensuring a robust approach to the management of risk

Whilst these are collective responsibilities, individual trustees may take a lead in specific areas of their
own  expertise  for  example  in  performing  or  visual  arts,  cinema,  hospitality,  venue  and/or  people
management, business or charity management, finance, fundraising, legal matters, risk management
and marketing. Experience in these areas aligned with our passion and belief in the arts enables us to
direct and support the work of TTA for the benefit of our community.

Every trustee has responsibility for:

•  ensuring that Taunton Theatre Association Ltd (TTA) complies with its governing document,

charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
•  ensuring that TTA pursues its objects as defined in its governing document
•  maintaining proper financial control and ensuring that TTA applies its resources exclusively in
pursuance of its objects - the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included
in its objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are
contributing to and maintaining vision, mission, and values
contributing to developing strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, and setting targets
and evaluating performance against agreed targets

•
•

•  ensuring accountability
•  ensuring appropriate employment policies and respecting the roles of staff and volunteers
•
•  monitoring and, where necessary, implementing internal policies, which must include equality
and diversity as well as health and safety policies and grievance and disciplinary procedures

supporting the operational management of the organisation

•  ensuring that risk assessments for all aspects of the business are carried out
•
safeguarding the good name and values of TTA and Taunton Brewhouse
•  maintaining  effective  board  performance  and  ensuring  the  effective  and  efficient

administration of the charity including funding, insurance, and premises

•  promoting TTA and Taunton Brewhouse
•  acting in the best interests of the charity, never in the interests of any individual or another

organisation.

In addition to the statutory duties, each trustee is expected to use their specific skills, knowledge, or
experience to help the Board reach sound decisions. These involve scrutinising Board and Committee
papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives
and other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Trustees are required to act reasonably and prudently in all matters relating to the charity and must
always keep in mind the interests of TTA and Taunton Brewhouse.

We observe the framework of principles set out by the Nolan Committee (Standard in Public Life 1996:
The Seven Principles of Public Life) and statutory duties of directors as set out in Companies Act 2006.

As well as personal and financial probity we look for people who, although may not themselves be
required to work directly with vulnerable groups (including children), nevertheless  understand the
issues inherent in these areas.

Making your application

Please complete the listed documents and send to Val Hammond, Chair of Taunton Theatre
Association by email: val@tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk with Trustee in the subject line.

We aim to respond quickly to applications.

If you would like to have an informal discussion before going further, please contact Val by email to
arrange a Zoom meeting or telephone discussion.

Application documents – please complete and attach to your email:
•  Application cover sheet which ensures we have information to properly consider your

application

•  A short covering letter (no more than 2 sides of A4 outlining why you want to be a trustee and

what knowledge or experience you can contribute

•  Your CV (if you have one)
•  Charity Commission Trustee Declaration
•  Diversity Monitoring Form*
•  Candidate Privacy Notice*

*These documents are part of our regular recruitment processes for employees and good practice
for trustees although trustees are not, of course, employees.

July 2023

Taunton Brewhouse is seeking a highly organized and proactive Building and Services
Co-Ordinator to work alongside the Technical and Building Manager to ensure the
safe, efficient, and smooth running of our theatre.

The Building and Services Coordinator is responsible for maintaining the built environment
of the theatre and its IT services. The post-holder will provide building expertise and liaise
with contractors commissioned to carry out specific projects and work with volunteers and
alongside a team of technicians who are line managed by the Technical and Building
Manager.  The post-holder will need to plan and organise the efficient, safe, and
economical use of people and resources, within current legislation

Situated on the banks of the River Tone in the county town of Somerset, Taunton
Brewhouse is a much-loved venue that hosts the best of touring performance from across
the country, produces an annual in-house winter production, offers a range of participatory
activities for all ages, and supports emerging talent through its artist development studio
programme. We welcome in the region of 80,000 visitors per year to our main auditorium
(352 seats), studio theatre (60 seats), creative hub, bar and café. Taunton Brewhouse, for
the most part, is a busy receiving house with multiple one-night events per week.

The successful candidate will be a collaborative and solutions-focused individual with
experience in buildings, services and facilities maintenance, who thrives in a busy
environment and is committed to supporting excellent creative work. The role has
development potential to grow in the future. Working hours may include evenings and
weekends at times.

About us

Taunton Brewhouse has been operated by Taunton Theatre Association Ltd (TTA) since
2014. TTA are a registered charity. TTA Trading Ltd is the subsidiary company of TTA whose
sole purpose is to generate income via trading activities such as bar, café and venue hire to
donate back to the charity.

Our Vision: We imagine a future where people and communities are liberated through
artistic expression, becoming connected and considered equal

Our Mission: Since 1977, Taunton Brewhouse has existed to welcome people locally and
globally to enjoy and participate in a liberating programme of bold and brilliant artistic and
creative experiences that inspire and transform our individual and shared experience of
the world

Our Values:

Welcoming

Bold

Collaborative

Resilient

We value open hearts, open minds and
welcome all to Taunton Brewhouse
We value bold artists and bold ideas
inspiring locally and globally
We believe meaningful collaboration can
change the world. We work together to
create, play and learn
– We are committed to remaining
Taunton’s enduring centre for creative
excellence

Taunton Brewhouse is about to enter an exciting new phase in our evolution as we develop
our strategy for 2026- 2030. It is now an excellent time to join the team and contribute to
the strategic direction for the next five years.

JOB DESCRIPTION: BUILDING AND SERVICES CO-ORDINATOR
REPORTS TO: TECHNICAL AND BUILDING MANAGER

FULL TIME – 35 HOURS PER WEEK INCLUDING SOME WEEKENDS AND EVENINGS
SALARY £27,000 - 28,000 Dependent on experience

SPECIFIC JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

1.

Overarching Responsibilities

•  Day-to-day responsibility for premises and staff security and health and safety.
•  Fully conversant with and help to shape relevant policies and procedures and

ensure that these procedures are communicated effectively to users of the building
and always adhered to.

•  Work with the Technical and Building Manager and, as appropriate, with the senior
management team to adopt and embed sustainable and environmentally friendly
working practices.

•  Contribute to the development of KPI’s and targets for areas of responsibility and

monitor performance against these, to continually improve the facility and quality of
TTA’s service.

2.

People

•  Liaise with and monitor the performance of building project contractors.   Where

volunteers are involved in internal projects, ensure they are appropriately qualified,
trained an supervised.

•  Ensure maintenance work carried out by volunteers and staff complies with health

and safety policies and legislation.

•  Deliver training for volunteers in the use of equipment and safe practice.
•  Ensure that and staff or volunteers using equipment are trained in its use and follow

safe working practices.

3.    Compliance

•

•

•

•

Responsible for ensuring contractors, staff, equipment and premises comply
with health the safety regulations, current legislation, licensing requirements
and industry standards.
Ensure building and health and safety risk assessments are completed,
updated, electronically filed, adhered to, and made available to relevant parties.
Ensure that the building and its contents are compliant with fire regulations.
Responsible for liaising with the alarm and security companies and ensuring
equipment is maintained, tested and records kept electronically including
annual PAT testing, regular fire equipment and weekly alarms tests
Responsible for ensuring the theatre has enough staff trained as fire wardens on
duty at any given time, evacuation procedures are clear and transparent, and
evacuations practiced annually and biannual training session.

•

Report any health and safety issues immediately to the Executive Director or,
their absence to the Chair. Assist in the immediate remedial response to correct
inadequacies or failings.

3.

Building

•

•
•

•
•

Liaises with ED, Technical Manager, Somerset Council and Taunton Town
Council on building matters and emergencies as they arise to ensure issues are
promptly dealt with and that necessary approvals are obtained, and appropriate
records kept recording actions and decisions.  Sets up record systems for this
purpose.
Supervise building work ensuring the environmental disposal of building waste.
Set up systems for visiting workers to ensure that contractors working on site are
clearly identified and recorded on entry and leaving.
Maintain and repair any equipment or organise such equipment to be repaired
Organise removal of equipment and furniture to meet identified needs – for
clients, staff, and volunteers.

4.

Key Holding

•

Deputy main key-holder with responsibility for recording and issuing internal key
allocation to staff as appropriate.

5.

Major Projects

•

•

5. IT

•

•

•

Assume the responsibility of project coordinator on major building projects
working with the Senior Management Team, Executive Director and external
contractors
Work alongside the Executive Director, Technical and Building Manager and
fundraising team to ensure that data and quotes are available and accurate for
major projects

Responsible for ordering and coordinating the maintenance and repair of all IT
equipment and services
Administer IT users access to TTA’s SharePoint/intranet, ensuring user
information and permissions are up to date and secure, providing support as
required
Attend meetings with colleagues, service providers and visiting companies as
appropriate.

6.   Finance

•

•

•

Responsible for delivering the theatre’s buildings, services, IT and safety
budgets
Oversee the expenditure of the budgets to cover maintenance work, equipment
replacement and agreed new purchases (within budget) always providing
multiple quotes and working economically.
Keep records of all financial transactions and financial reporting as per the
organisation’s financial management requirements.

7.    Other

•

•

•

•

Devise a ‘Green Operations Policy’ to ensure the organisation lessens its impact
on the environment.
To participate actively in the life of the arts centre and contribute to the
development of its educational and community engagement programmes.
The post-holder will be required to carry out administrative work associated with
tasks at hand.
Undertake other duties that may reasonably be required of them.

COMPANY CULTURE

In keeping with the ethos of Taunton Theatre Association all employees are invited to
sometimes work beyond the scope of their job description in support of each other and
events.  This helps build rapport and good team spirit with colleagues, connects us with
our audiences and with the volunteers on whom the organisation depends.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills under pressure.

Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise and
multitask across projects.

Clear and effective communication skills, both verbal and written.

Proficient in using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and relevant technical software
(e.g., lighting desks, sound systems).

Ability to read and interpret risk assessments.

A proactive, hands-on approach with a flexible attitude.

A team player who maintains professionalism under pressure and is solutions focused.

Commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all.

PERSONAL SPECIFICATION

ESSENTIAL
Experience in facilities management,
building maintenance and IT
management
Strong understanding of health and
safety regulations including LOLER,
PUWER and working at height
Experience of managing budgets,
ensuring cost-effective resource
allocation

DESIREABLE
Qualification in electrical or mechanical
systems (eg PAT testing certificate)

First Aid at work qualification

Health and Safety training or
qualification such as IOSH

Experience of working with volunteers
Experience with sustainable building
practices or energy efficient systems

STAFF BENEFITS

28 days annual leave per year, including bank holidays, increasing by 1 day for every 2
years of continuous employment

A workplace pension scheme

Hybrid working practices where possible

Complimentary tickets and discounts on food and drink

JOB TITLE:

LOCATION:

Casual Theatre Technician

Taunton, Somerset

CONTRACT:

Zero Hours

SALARY

£15 per hour

REPORTING TO:

Technical & Facilities Manager

Taunton Brewhouse is looking to increase our number of casual technicians, joining our
busy technical team working on productions, events, and film screenings.

Situated on the banks of the River Tone in the county town of Somerset, Taunton
Brewhouse is a much-loved venue that hosts the best of touring performance from
across the country with multiple one-night shows and films, produces an annual
inhouse winter production, offers a range of participatory activities for all ages, and
supports emerging talent through its artist development studio programme. We
welcome in the region of 80,000 visitors per year to our main auditorium (352 seats),
studio theatre (60 seats), creative hub, gallery, bar and café.

About us

Taunton Brewhouse has been operated by Taunton Theatre Association Ltd (TTA), a
registered charity, since 2014. A trading subsidiary generates income through sales in
the bar, café and venue hire, donating surplus to the charity.

Our Vision: We imagine a future where people and communities are liberated through
artistic expression, becoming connected and considered equal

Our Mission: Since 1977, Taunton Brewhouse has existed to welcome people locally
and globally to enjoy and participate in a liberating programme of bold and brilliant
artistic and creative experiences that inspire and transform our individual and shared
experience of the world.

Our Values:

Welcoming

We value open hearts, open minds and
welcome all to Taunton Brewhouse

Bold

Collaborative

Resilient

We value bold artists and bold ideas
inspiring locally and globally
We believe meaningful collaboration can
change the world. We work together to
create, play and learn
We are committed to remaining Taunton’s
enduring centre for creative excellence

Taunton Brewhouse is about to enter an exciting new phase in our evolution as we
develop our strategy for 2026- 2030. It is an excellent time to join the team and
contribute to the strategic direction for the next five years.

CASUAL THEATRE TECHNICIAN

The purpose of the role is to support the Technical Manager in the delivery of technical
service at the theatre and arts centre.  The post-holder will be expected to work on
stage, sound and lightning during get-ins, show running and get outs for productions in
the theatre and studio.

Other roles may include cinema projectionist and technical or building maintenance.

The post-holder should be knowledgeable in health and safety best practice and
current legislation.  The Theatre Technician will report to the Technical & Facilities
Manager and work with Volunteer Technicians and be supervised by the Duty
Technicians on productions.

OTHER ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Technical services

•  Deliver technical services and support, in preparation for and during live
performances and events, operating or supervising sound and lighting
equipment as appropriate.

•  Assist in the logging and maintaining of equipment and stock control.

Compliance

•  Ensure rigging is carried out satisfactorily to industry standards.
•  Comply with all company policies, legal requirements and health and safety

legislation to maintain safe practise at work.

•  Report any health and safety issues immediately to the Duty Technician or

Technical Manager.

•  Assist in the immediate remedial response to correct inadequacies or failings.

 Other

•

To participate actively in the life of the arts centre and contribute to the
development of its educational and community engagement programmes.

•  Undertake other duties that may reasonably be required of them.

PERSONAL SPECIFICATION

This is a role for a technician with evidence of the following skills:
ESSENTIAL

DESIRABLE

At least one years’ experience working as a
technician in a performing arts venue

Interest in, experience of working with
young people and community groups.

Experience of operating sound and lighting
for live performances/events.

Experience of, or interest in, developing
carpentry and metal work skills.

Flexible, creative, can-do attitude.

First Aid qualification.

Good written and verbal communication
skills with the ability to support volunteers.

Working at height trained.

General practical theatre equipment
maintenance skills.

Experience of, or interest in, developing
projectionist skills.

Knowledge of current industry practice and
legislation relating to the delivery of
technical services for live events.

Ability to remain calm and manage
effectively under pressure.

Comfortable working at height.

HOW TO APPLY:

Please complete application form, monitoring form, including CV and cover letter
outlining your suitability for the position, and send by email to:
HR@thebrewhouse.co.uk  with Casual Theatre Technician in the subject line.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling opportunity, but we are particularly keen to hear from
candidates who are ready to engage with us as soon as possible.