We are looking for a Head of Wigs, Hair and Makeup to join the National Theatre Wigs, Hair and Makeup Team.
The purpose of this role is to bring vision and dynamism to the leadership of a pivotal department in the realisation and running of Wigs, Hair and Makeup (WH&M) requirements for all productions at the National Theatre; to creatively support incoming designers and actors bringing cultural sensitivity and significant depth of technical knowledge in support of the supervisors on each production; to position WH&M in the production process through confident communication with directors, designers, producers, production managers and other HODs; to innovate in recruitment and career pathways to create a diverse and constantly developing department; to be responsible for planning, administration and financial management of the department; to engage in networks outside the NT to promote the evolution of the profession and innovation within it.
The successful candidate will have the following:
Demonstrable and extensive management experience within a large-scale producing theatre, with the technical knowledge to direct, monitor, and oversee professional Wigs, Hair, and Make-up staff across multiple projects simultaneously.
Proven experience managing creative teams in a fast-paced, multi-production environment
Substantial experience and technical proficiency gained through in-depth experience in wig-making and hairdressing, with an extensive knowledge and excellent level of technical ability in make-up, prosthetics and associated techniques.
Knowledge of what’s involved in creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive working environment.
An understanding of forward financial planning, and proven ability to set, manage and control both departmental and show budgets using a computerised ordering and finance system.
If that sounds like you, this may be the role for you!
Download the Job Description here.
Working with us will give you..
- Complimentary staff tickets for shows and guided tours, subject to availability and policy
- 25 days annual leave increasing up to 32 with length of service (plus bank holidays)
- Development Programmes via e-learning platform, and specialist in-person training relating to role
- Access to interest-free season ticket loan and cycle scheme partnership
- Enhanced sick pay
- Family Friendly policies including Family leave and Support leave
- Family-friendly employer – we are a member of Parents and Carers in the Performing Arts (PiPA)
- Pension schemes with Legal & General and NEST
- Sabbatical option, subject to agreement and policy
- On-site staff canteen and social facilities
- On-site occupational health support
- In-house mental health and wellbeing advisors providing workplace counselling and support
- Wellbeing programme of events, including mental health awareness, financial wellbeing, skills sharing and opportunities to get active
- Exclusive staff talks to hear more about NT productions, past and present, from leading practitioners
- Discounted access to National Theatre at Home
- Volunteer leave – one paid day per year to volunteer for your chosen charity
- Discounts in the NT’s bars, cafés, restaurants, and bookshop, as well as in local businesses (from Wagamama to gyms), on and around the South Bank
- Access to retailer discounted gift cards and a cash-back-on-spending card
Please note
The closing date for the receipt of a completed application is Wednesday 10th September 2025 at 12 noon.
At the National Theatre (NT), we support and encourage people from a variety of backgrounds, experiences and skill sets to join us and help shape what we do.
In line with our commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), we recognise that we need to address underrepresentation in our organisation. We actively welcome applications from individuals who are part of global majority, disabled and LGBTQ+ communities, and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
We strive to promote inclusive and equitable practices in all areas of the NT. As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee to interview disabled applicants who meet our minimum requirements for our vacancies.
If you would like to speak to someone about any adjustments or have any questions about the recruitment process, you can email recruitment@nationaltheatre.org.uk or call us on 02074523834.