Country Arts SA pays respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognises their continuing connection and spiritual relationship to these lands, waters and skies. We are committed to listening and helping care for Country, and safeguarding, sharing and celebrating First Nations’ living cultures.
Art Centres Leader
Art Centres Leader
Eligibility: SA Public Sector Employees only
Location: Adelaide or Regional South Australia
Job status: Long Term Contract
Remuneration: AS07 – $116,089 to $125,490
Country Arts SA is one of South Australia’s largest and most dynamic arts organisations, dedicated to transforming how the arts are created, shared, and experienced across regional communities. We deliver high-quality arts programs and entertainment throughout regional South Australia and support regional artists to develop their creative practice.
We are seeking an experienced and visionary Arts Centres Leader to lead and grow Country Arts SA’s statewide network of arts centres.
Based at our Collinswood office and reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this senior leadership role is responsible for driving the strategic direction, sustainability and performance of our arts centres across regional South Australia. The role leads a network of Arts Centre Managers and Operations Managers and plays a critical role in shaping the future of regional arts and cultural infrastructure.
This is a unique opportunity for an accomplished leader who is passionate about the arts, community impact and sustainable business growth to make a significant contribution to the cultural life of regional South Australia.
About the Role
As Arts Centres Leader, you will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight across Country Arts SA’s network of venues. You will be responsible for driving commercial performance, strengthening partnerships, supporting regional communities and ensuring our arts centres continue to be thriving cultural hubs that deliver exceptional experiences for artists, audiences and communities.
Working collaboratively across the organisation, you will identify opportunities for growth, innovation and continuous improvement while supporting venue teams to achieve high standards in customer service, programming, financial sustainability and stakeholder engagement.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership, coaching and support to Arts Centre Managers and Operations Managers across the statewide network.
- Drive business development initiatives that increase venue utilisation, earned income, sponsorship opportunities and strategic partnerships.
- Develop and implement strategies that strengthen the long-term sustainability and impact of Country Arts SA’s arts centres.
- Identify and deliver opportunities for commercial growth, operational efficiency and improved customer experiences.
- Build and maintain productive relationships with government agencies, local councils, artists, presenters, community organisations, sponsors and industry stakeholders.
- Champion audience development initiatives that increase participation and engagement across regional South Australia.
- Partner with First Nations communities and stakeholders to support cultural leadership, representation and opportunities across the network.
- Oversee budget planning, financial performance, reporting and resource allocation for arts centre operations.
- Support infrastructure planning, venue improvements and future capital projects across the network.
- Lead workforce planning and foster a high-performing, inclusive and collaborative culture.
- Contribute to the achievement of organisational priorities, strategic objectives and key operational plans.
We Are Looking For Someone Who Has:
- Demonstrated senior leadership experience within arts, entertainment, venue management, cultural, community or related sectors.
- Strong commercial acumen with experience driving business development, revenue growth and strategic partnerships.
- Experience leading geographically dispersed teams and delivering results through effective leadership and collaboration.
- Advanced stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
- Strong strategic planning, financial management and organisational leadership capability.
- Experience managing complex projects, competing priorities and organisational change.
- Excellent communication, negotiation and influencing skills.
- A commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and cultural safety.
- Knowledge of regional communities and the role of arts and culture in community development is highly desirable.
- Relevant tertiary qualifications in arts management, business, leadership, management or a related discipline are desirable.
Special Conditions
- Regular intrastate travel and occasional interstate travel may be required.
- Current Australian Driver’s Licence.
- Participation in Country Arts SA’s performance development and review processes.
Why Join Country Arts SA?
At Country Arts SA, you will join a passionate and purpose-driven organisation committed to creating vibrant regional communities through arts and culture. This role provides the opportunity to influence arts leadership across South Australia, work with talented teams and stakeholders, and help shape the future of a statewide network of arts centres.
View Full Position Description Here
How to Apply
Applications should specifically address the selection criteria outlined in the Role Description and include:
- A cover letter;
- A current CV; and
- A completed Pre-Employment Declaration Form.
Applications can be submitted to [email protected].
Download the Pre-Employment Declaration Form here.
Applications close 24 November 2026, 5:00pm.
Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.
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