About us
Geelong Arts Centre is one of eleven Victorian State Government owned creative organisations under the umbrella of Creative Victoria. Since opening in 1981, Geelong Arts Centre has made significant artistic and cultural contributions to Geelong and the surrounding regions.
Geelong Arts Centre is currently undergoing a period of exciting and dynamic change. To meet the cultural needs of a growing population and help secure Geelong’s position as a global city, the Victorian State Government, through Creative Victoria, has committed funding for three stages of capital development. Stage One - the refurbishment of The Playhouse Theatre was completed in 2010. Stage Two - the Ryrie Street Redevelopment ($38.5m) was completed November 2019 and opened to the public on 7th November 2019. Stage Three - The Little Malop Street Redevelopment ($140m) commenced in 2019 and is planned for completion in 2023. This investment will result in a world-class arts facility becoming the cultural heart of Geelong and the G21 region.
Led by a dynamic CEO and Leadership Team, your contribution and expertise will be highly valued. We offer a great working environment in the creative heart of Geelong, working alongside passionate people who are committed to community and the Arts.
About the role
The Development Lead is responsible for managing commercial partnerships and corporate membership and leads the creation and execution of event experiences that support the Development strategy.
The role assists the Senior Manager, Development and Director in growing relationships with donors, partners, funders, community stakeholders and VIPs, actively cultivating and stewarding support to expand sustainable funding opportunities for Geelong Arts Centre.
The role sits within the Marketing, Audience and Development department which plays a pivotal role in the sustainability and growth of Geelong Arts Centre and its programs. The team is tasked with maintaining existing and attracting new and diverse audiences and financial supporters, delivering the development strategy that underpins funds to realise capital and program goals.
Essential qualifications and experience
To be successful in this position, you will have:
• Experience in a development/partnership/events or fundraising role.
• Proven track record successfully developing and managing relationships with partners and stakeholders.
• Proven ability to develop, coordinate and deliver high-quality stakeholder events.
• Confidence and ability to deal effectively with people at all levels.
• Tertiary qualification in relevant discipline.
Desirable qualifications and experience
• An interest in, and knowledge of, the performing arts.
• Knowledge of Geelong and the district community.
• Experience using customer relationship management (CRM) systems.
• Current knowledge of legislation impacting on philanthropy, Australian philanthropic ethics and standards.
• Demonstrated experience in the preparation of successful grant applications.
• Design skills and experience in the use of Adobe Creative Suite.
Special requirements
• Flexibility in working hours to support daytime, evening, and some weekend work will be required as part of the normal hours of duty for this position.
• The following checks, licences and certifications are required for this role:
o Current and valid Working with Children’s Check (employee)
The employee must provide evidence that they hold current certifications prior to commencing employment with Geelong Arts Centre. The employee must maintain currency of these checks, licences and certifications for the duration of their employment with Geelong Arts Centre.
Position Description
Geelong Arts Centre Enterprise Agreement
Applications close Midnight Friday 3 July 2026
Sound like you? Then we want to hear from you!
To apply for this opportunity please click the Apply Now button and provide a cover letter including your ability to meet the key requirements outlined in the position description, and a current CV.
Applicants will be required to undergo police and identity screening. First round interviews will be conducted either face-to-face or online. Geelong Arts Centre is an equal opportunity employer and values the contribution that diversity brings to the workplace.
Geelong Arts Centre is strongly committed to the safety and well-being of all children that interact with our organisation. We have zero tolerance for child abuse.
Geelong Arts Centre encourages and welcomes applications from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders People.
Applications are open to those with full-working rights in Australia.