This scheme, alongside many other management training programmes out there, is designed to be an intense opportunity to learn and will be a real challenge for you. There are some aspects of the scheme you should consider before applying that will help you decide if this scheme will suit you.
Focus. The scheme gives significant exposure to managing venues – the people, finances, buildings and activities. This isn’t an opportunity to develop as a specialist in one discipline such as marketing or production, but a chance to learn about the whole business and develop broad skills as a manager and business leader. It's really important to us that senior managers understand life in our venues. Consider the difference between specialist and generalist roles and where you see yourself going. Many of our venue managers worked their way up in a specialist role before moving to leading a theatre and that’s an equally valuable career path.
Relocation. Trainees could move home twice or more, and some projects may involve frequent national travel. You may be living away from your friends and family. You’ll learn a lot in return, but don’t underestimate the toll this can take. If staying in a particular location is the most important factor to you unfortunately this scheme isn't the right one.
Pressure. Schemes like this pack a lot in! There are many opportunities to fit in, and part of the challenge is managing your time. You’ll be working with people from across the business, many in very senior positions, and you’ll be expected to work at a management level very quickly, tackling some challenging situations, balancing this with your own study at the same time. Much of this pressure will come from yourself – we know you want to do well! There will of course be support for you every step of the way, but it is worth thinking about your preferred ways of working and whether this structure sounds like it would suit you.
The company! What do you know about ATG already? Have you been to our theatres? What do you think of our company values? What have you read about us online? Think about what kind of role and company you want to work in and whether we sound like the right company for you.