Michael Slavin is chief executive of Northern Stage, the largest producing theatre in the North East. Having previously held senior leadership roles including chief operating officer at 11Arches, the charity behind Kynren, and interim chief executive of York Theatre Royal.
What was your first job (and how much did it pay)? I started my first proper job on my 16th birthday at the Co-op in my hometown village, earning £2.32 per hour paid weekly by cheque.
What is the best advice or support you’ve been given in business? I’ve learned from brilliant colleagues that the secret to a great career is to keep moving forwards – putting one foot in front of the other regardless of obstacles. This simple approach has served me well throughout my career.
What are the main changes you’ve seen in your business/sector, and what challenges are you facing? Working across sectors has shown me how wage stagnation in the 2010s, compounded by pandemic impacts and inflation explosions, has created pressure on both audience spending and public subsidy for theatre. Despite these challenges, theatre remains vital as an engine for empathy, joy, and shared community space.
What would your dream job be? My current role as Northern Stage chief executive is exactly where I want to be.
What advice would you give to someone starting out a career in your sector? Work hard, ask questions, build your network, but most importantly find the joy in your work. Working in the arts is a privilege that allows us to reach people across society – if we’re not finding pleasure in creating productions and outreach programs, we’re missing the point.
What makes the North East a good place to work? The people make this region special. From the extraordinary welcome in Newcastle to the kindness of the Northern Stage team and the warmth of residents across the city who are driven to make Newcastle thrive, it’s been phenomenal to experience.
How important is it for business to play a role in society? It’s vitally important. Society requires active maintenance and support through job creation, skills development, funded opportunities, and partnerships. Businesses have a responsibility to engage with local communities and create meaningful opportunities.
Outside of work, what are you really good at? I enjoy home cooking and baking with my two daughters. While banana bread remains our specialty, they’re becoming independent bakers, which means I need to expand my recipe repertoire!
Who would play you in a film about your life? Based on a straw poll of friends, Nelson Franklin (known for playing Robby in New Girl) would be the choice, largely due to our shared height and glasses-wearing habits.
Which three people would you invite to a dinner party, and why? I’d invite Paul McCartney for his genius and Beatles legacy, Zadie Smith as a generationally talented author and brilliant essayist, and Yas Rana, a prolific cricket journalist and podcaster. Conversation with these three would certainly never be dull.