Founded in 1904, RADA has an unparalleled record of success in training some of the world’s most renowned actors and technical specialists. Ours is an impressive history on which we are building an innovative future. RADA training is not only informed by the industry but also produces graduates who take their place at the vanguard of their profession working at the cutting edge of the dramatic arts. We have an ambitious strategy to encourage students from all circumstances and backgrounds to come to RADA.
We aim to be fair and equitable and enable dialogue in a world of rapidly changing demographics and evolving definitions of identity. Through our approach to teaching, learning and wider social engagement we foreground equitable and sustainable practice in a way that sets high standards and feeds expectations for fair and considerate behaviour both in RADA and beyond.
Our access and participation programme aims to remove any barriers that students from underrepresented groups may encounter so they are able to access and succeed on our courses, and progress into the industry.
This is an exciting time to join us. We are developing a new vision and strategy for RADA, building on its existing successes to redefine training in the dramatic arts for the 21st century, focusing on key themes of training and student experience, growth, industry, and international dialogue and engagement.
As we celebrate 120 years of history and look towards the future, we find ourselves at a critical juncture in the higher education and arts sectors, facing unprecedented challenges that require strategic foresight and financial acumen. In this context, the role of Director of Finance takes on heightened importance. We are seeking a visionary leader who can serve as a key strategic partner, instrumental in crafting and implementing innovative solutions to navigate these complex times. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the financial future of our organization, building on our rich heritage while contributing significantly to our continued success in a rapidly evolving landscape.
In addition to our aims for our vocational training, we are working from our foundational strengths to grow our income streams through life-changing work, aligned with our core pedagogy and ethos. We aim to co-create with industry and other stakeholders to build on our reputation as a centre of excellence and innovation in our field.
Progressive
We are outward looking and embrace innovation; we work through national and international partnerships.
Inclusive
We encourage dialogue, amplify the voices of those traditionally unheard and aim to be fair and equitable in everything we do.
Creative
We foster original thinking and strive to evolve new concepts and forms of practice.
Empowering
We travel together on a teaching and learning journey that embraces boldness, supports risk- taking and celebrates the individual as well as the ensemble.
Through the work we do, we aim to develop creative practitioners who are change-makers and future leaders. Our graduates go on to become leaders in their fields as actors, directors, writers, producers, designers, scenic artists and stage and production managers, as well as enjoying success in wider industries.
RADA is open to everyone and committed to harnessing the potential of the most talented people, but we recognise that some barriers can prevent opportunities. We know that by removing barriers to our training, we are increasing diversity across the academy, and in turn effecting positive change in a more representative industry into which our students will go on to gain employment.
RADA makes an essential contribution to the UK’s £116 billion creative industries and is known throughout the world by the impact and achievement of its graduates who often speak of the experience and training they underwent at RADA as unique and special. Many of the graduates that RADA has produced over the years make work which has populated film, television and theatre; achieving recognition at international award ceremonies, translated into many languages, and contributing to economies throughout the world.
In 2024 RADA celebrates its 120th anniversary. An academy founded by the industry for the industry, we continue to maintain strong links with the performing arts industries and have built an outstanding reputation as a world- renowned centre of excellence.
RADA has recently appointed RADA graduates David Harewood and Cynthia Erivo as new President and Vice President, and in May 2024 announced that His Majesty King Charles III was taking up the Royal Patronage of RADA.
At RADA, our Finance team operates within a robust governance framework, benefiting from the oversight and engagement of several key bodies. These include the Audit and Risk Committee, the Finance and General Purposes Committee, the RADA Business Board, and our Council, which maintains active involvement with RADA. This multi-layered structure ensures comprehensive financial management and accountability across our organisation.
RADA’s annual income comes from a diversified portfolio, and a significant proportion self-generated.