Job Title: Manager, Public Programs

FTE: 0.8 FTE, 30 hours per week

Salary: $60–65,000 per annum, pro rata + 10.5% superannuation

Reporting relationship: Reports directly to Director and Assistant Director, Program and Audiences. Direct reports: casual event staff, artists, and contractors.

Download the Position Description [PDF]

About the role

The IMA is looking for an innovative and highly organised Manager, Public Programs to deliver public programs and events at the IMA. Working closely with internal personnel and external stakeholders, this role is both curatorial and logistical. You will be passionate about connecting audiences to contemporary art and embedding the IMA in the Brisbane cultural community.

Each year the IMA delivers a breadth of public programs, including talks, screenings, guided exhibition tours, live performances, book and exhibition launches. The Manager, Public Programs oversees these activities and manages their delivery in collaboration with other team members.

You will build and draw upon networks in the field of Australian and international contemporary art, as well as related fields such as music, film, and design. You will also proactively build partnerships with community groups to reach new audiences. The Manager, Public Programs will relish a fast-paced and changeable environment, be self-motivated, flexible, resourceful, and will possess the ability to remain calm under pressure.

This is a hands-on position in a small team, where you will be expected to work across all aspects of event planning and delivery. Please note that this position involves evening and weekend hours. To meet the objectives of the role, flexible working arrangements can be negotiated.

About IMA Public Programs

The IMA is nationally recognised for its high-quality public programs that connect diverse audiences to our broader artistic program. Our public programs offer thoughtful points of entry into our exhibitions, alongside opportunities to gain professional skills, unpack challenging ideas, and engage with contemporary artists in person.

We are passionate about increasing access to contemporary art, and presenting programs that support different ways of learning, understanding and experiencing art and culture. Strategic initiatives and targeted programming at the IMA aim to engage new audiences, enhance accessibility, and include communities and individuals from diverse backgrounds.

The IMA also uses web-based platforms as a way to engage broad audiences. We intend to continue expanding our global reach by offering digital programs in the form of podcasts, livestreaming and online-exclusive events, to complement our extensive onsite activities.

About you

We are looking for an applicant who is passionate about the visual arts and connecting ideas, artists and their practices to our wider audiences. A dedicated and motivated individual, you will curate and deliver engaging events, that are well-organised and connect people to contemporary art in innovative ways.

You will possess excellent project management skills, and the ability to build strong relationships, both internally and externally, with artists, speakers, community groups and event staff. Your track record of working collaboratively in a cultural context will set you apart, as will your practical, hands on approach.

Selection Criteria

(Essential)
– Demonstrated experience delivering public programs or events, preferably within a cultural organisation
– A knowledge of contemporary visual arts or related fields such as music, film, design, fashion, and architecture
– Highly motivated and passionate about working with diverse communities and audiences
– Excellent project management skills, including the ability to manage staff and delegate tasks
– Outstanding interpersonal, relationship management, and communication skills
– Strong organisational processes and time management skills, as well as the ability to problem solve under pressure
– Ability to work independently and as part of a small team
– Experience in managing budgets, including applying for and acquitting grant funding
– Able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends

(Desirable)
– Experience in education sector and/or in an education role within a cultural institution
– Working knowledge of digital event delivery
– Prior experience in the community development sector
– Knowledge of technical requirements such as projectors, laptops, internet connections, and audio, ability to trouble-shoot equipment failure
– Ability to edit audio, video, and oversee livestream events
– Current RSA and First Aid certificate

Application Process

Applications must consist of a one-page cover letter, two-page (maximum) response to the Selection Criteria, a CV, and the names and contact details of three professional referees.

Applications should be sent to Samantha Jones, Assistant Director, at recruitment@ima.org.au by Wednesday, 1 March 2023.

If you have further questions about the role, please contact Samantha Jones, Assistant Director, on (07) 3252 5750 or at samantha@ima.org.au.

• The IMA values diversity in the workplace. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, LGBTIQA+ people and culturally and linguistically diverse applicants are strongly encouraged to apply for this position. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact Samantha Jones, at samantha@ima.org.au.