We are looking for a Interim Deputy Head of Wigs, Hair and Make-Up to join the National Theatre WH&M Team with an immediate start.
We are recruiting for a new Interim Deputy Head of Wigs, Hair & Make Up, with an immediate start on a 3-month fixed term contract. This role is key to ensuring the smooth running of the Wigs, Hair and Make-up (WH&M) department across all productions through the coming months before our new Head of Wigs, Hair & Make Up starts in early 2026. This role does not require recent practical experience, however it plays a key position in the management of both making and running teams in this transitional period, while maintaining high artistic and technical standards, supporting creative teams, and managing resources.
The successful candidate will have the following:
- Knowledge of WH&M making and show running in a busy producing house – this could either be from previous experience in WH&M (preferred but not essential), or from another linked theatre/performing arts area (e.g. Wardrobe, Production Management)
- Proven experience of supporting and managing high-performing teams in a fast-paced, multi-production environment
- Proven track record of managing and input advance team schedules across multiple projects to ensure skilled and cost-efficient staffing, overseeing and approving time sheets, and arranging last minute cover when and where necessary.
- An open, engaged, and positive manner when dealing with people from all areas of the NT and visiting artists, alongside the ability to communicate clearly (both orally and in writing) with colleagues, freelancers and external contacts and to develop positive relationships across and on behalf of the NT
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 Monday 15th 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.