Manager, Arts and Culture

Deliver community-driven programs that connect people, celebrate diversity, and embody Council’s values

Be part of a forward thinking and innovative Council

Salary from $168,668.38 - $181,831.28 p.a. plus 12% Superannuation and $10,000 travel allowance

Make a Difference Where You Work

Willoughby City Council is seeking an experienced and Arts & Culture Manager to lead the strategic delivery of Council’s arts, events, and cultural programs. This includes managing key assets such as The Concourse, Zenith Theatre, Willoughby Symphony Orchestra, public art, and community events to enrich local life and drive the visitor economy. This role navigates complex cultural initiatives with creativity and composure.

Why Join Us?

Meaningful Impact: Lead and develop inclusive, inspiring programs that enrich community life and celebrate diversity.

Progressive Council: Join a values-led organisation committed to creativity, inclusion and sustainability, with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality cultural and community outcomes.

Inspirational Leadership: Lead with vision and purpose, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement

About the Role

As the Manager of Arts and Culture you will:

Inspire and lead a multidisciplinary team, fostering a high-performing, creative culture.

Deliver bold, inclusive and innovative cultural programming that drives community vibrancy and economic growth.

Manage key venues and partnerships, including The Concourse, Zenith Theatre and Willoughby Symphony Orchestra.

Lead marketing and sponsorship strategies that grow reach, revenue, and recognition.

Build strategic partnerships with artists, First Nations communities, schools and creative industries.

Secure external funding through grants, philanthropy and business cases.

Monitor cultural performance and insights to guide continuous improvement.

Ensure governance and compliance across venues, programs and operations.

Deliver clear, strategic updates on cultural performance, trends, and investment priorities.

What You’ll Bring

Tertiary qualifications in Arts Administration, Cultural Management, Event Management, Business, or a related field — or extensive senior experience in the cultural sector.

Proven success delivering large-scale arts, events, or cultural programs in complex, multi-venue environments.

Strong skills in audience development, sponsorship acquisition, and strategic marketing to grow participation and revenue.

Solid financial management experience, including budgeting, forecasting, and revenue generation.

Exceptional stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse communities.

Thorough understanding of relevant legislative frameworks such as WHS, copyright, liquor licensing, and local government regulations.

Proven leadership in driving change, building high-performing teams, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Demonstrated experience leading strategic arts and culture projects from concept to completion.

Desirable Criteria:

Postgraduate qualifications in Cultural Policy, Creative Industries or Business Administration.

Strong understanding of governance and reporting requirements in complex or regulated environments.

Experience working in politically sensitive contexts, with confidence engaging senior leaders, elected officials, and other high-profile stakeholders across government and community.

Proficiency with ticketing, CRM and digital engagement platforms.

How to apply

Visit https://www.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Council/Working-with-us/Careers to apply or learn more including all about the range of benefits on offer at Willoughby.

For more information on the role, please contact Srima McQuillan, Director, Community at [email protected]

Applications should address all the key responsibilities outlined in the Position Description.

Successful candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening including police and qualification checks.

Applications close: Sunday, 7 September 2025 at 11.30 pm

Please note recruitment activity may commence before the closing date.

At Willoughby City Council, inclusion, diversity and belonging are core to how we work and how we recruit. We are committed to building a workplace that reflects the diversity of our community – one where everyone feels respected, valued and supported to contribute fully. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities and identities – including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, LGBTIQA+ communities, veterans, and people of all ages. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, we encourage you to let us know. We are committed to ensuring an accessible, inclusive and barrier-free experience for every candidate.