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Head of Wardrobe, Northern Ballet

  •  Yorkshire
  •  Â£40k-50k
  •  Full time
  •  Closes September 18, 2026
  •  Steven Wilkins
  •  recruitment@northernballet.com
  • #Dance

Description

Job Summary

A rare and exciting opportunity for an experienced wardrobe, costume and production leader to join Northern Ballet in a pivotal senior role.

Job Description

The Head of Wardrobe is a leadership role responsible for the creative, practical and operational delivery of wardrobe provision across Northern Ballet's full programme of work. You will lead the Wardrobe Department both at base and on tour, overseeing the planning, creation, maintenance and presentation of costumes, wigs, hair and make-up for new productions, revivals, rehearsals and performances.
This role sits at the centre of the production process, working closely with the Technical Director, designers, creative teams, production colleagues and performers to turn artistic ideas into beautifully realised, production-ready solutions. You will assess designs from both a creative and practical perspective, advising on feasibility, construction methods, staffing, timescales and cost implications.
You will balance creative ambition with the realities of a busy touring company, ensuring work is delivered safely, efficiently and to consistently high standards. Alongside day-to-day delivery, you will play an important part in shaping the future of the department: supporting and developing the team, strengthening systems and processes, caring for Northern Ballet's repertoire.

Job Requirements

Significant senior-level experience in costume production, wardrobe management or a related performing arts environment.
Experience leading and managing specialist teams.
Proven experience of managing complex production budgets and resources.
Demonstrable experience of cost estimating and financial planning for theatrical productions.
Strong understanding of costume construction, wardrobe operations, wigs, hair and make-up processes, specifically for ballet or dance.
Experience working closely with designers and creative teams to realise artistic concepts.
Knowledge of health and safety legislation and best practice within a production environment.
Experience of delivering multiple projects to demanding deadlines.

Job Responsibilities

Lead and manage Northern Ballet's Wardrobe Department, including costume-making, shoes, wigs, hair and make-up, both in Leeds and on tour. Oversee departmental staffing, planning, training, performance and communication, promoting collaboration, inclusion and continuous improvement. Lead wardrobe delivery for new productions, revivals, tours and special projects, working closely with designers, creative teams and other departments to realise artistic requirements. Assess design feasibility, construction needs, resource implications and costs, providing accurate estimates and budget advice. Manage wardrobe budgets, forecasts, suppliers, stock, maintenance, storage and production schedules. Ensure high standards of costume presentation, performer support, health and safety, safeguarding and sustainability. Contribute to strategic planning, operational improvement, innovation and best practice across the Technical Department.

Useful Links

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a covering letter to [email protected]
Closing date 18/9/26 at 17:30
We also ask applicants to complete our equal opportunities monitoring form which can be accessed here: https://forms.office.com/e/gYiDTBfzU7

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