Stratford-Upon-Avon, best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, is a thriving market town with a strong economy driven by tourism, hospitality, retail, education, and creative industries. Whether you're looking for a career change or starting fresh, here are five key industries currently hiring in Stratford-Upon-Avon.
1. Tourism and Hospitality
As one of the UK’s most famous tourist destinations, Stratford-Upon-Avon attracts millions of visitors every year, creating jobs in:
- Hotels and accommodation management
- Restaurants, pubs, and cafés
- Tour guiding and visitor experience roles
- Event management and theatre-related hospitality
Major employers include The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), hotels like The Arden Hotel, and various independent restaurants.
2. Retail and Customer Service
With a bustling town centre filled with boutique shops, high-street brands, and independent retailers, job opportunities in this sector include:
- Retail assistants and store managers
- Customer service representatives
- Merchandising and sales roles
- Supervisory and stock management positions
Popular shopping locations include Bell Court Shopping Centre, Maybird Shopping Park, and Stratford Town Centre.
3. Creative and Entertainment Industry
As a hub for theatre, media, and the arts, Stratford-Upon-Avon offers jobs in:
- Theatre production and performance (RSC and local theatres)
- Costume design and stage management
- Marketing, PR, and social media for creative organisations
- Publishing and content writing
The Royal Shakespeare Company is one of the largest employers in this field, along with independent production companies and arts organisations.
4. Education and Public Sector
With a strong network of schools, colleges, and public services, there are opportunities in:
- Teaching and classroom support
- School administration
- Public sector and council jobs
- Librarian and community services roles
Notable employers include Stratford-upon-Avon School, King Edward VI School, and Warwickshire County Council.
5. Tourism-Related Retail and Heritage Jobs
Stratford’s rich history means many jobs exist in:
- Museum and heritage site roles (e.g., Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust)
- Gift shop retail and experience curation
- Historical re-enactment and guided tours
- Arts and crafts retail
Heritage attractions such as Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, and Tudor World regularly recruit staff.