About the Role:

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary General Manager to lead a unique cultural institution dedicated to celebrating the vibrant cultural life of the Northern Territory through music. This pivotal role requires a strategic leader who can balance current operations with future planning, ensuring the sustained success and adaptability of the organization.

As the General Manager, you will oversee the organization’s team, programs, funding, resources, and systems, driving operational efficiency and fostering a culture of excellence. Reporting directly to the Board, you will manage a core team of five, who collaborate with contracted staff, musicians, and volunteers to deliver captivating performances, events, and education programs.

This is an opportunity to lead with purpose, inspire creativity, and make a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the Northern Territory.

Key Responsibilities:

Maximize funding opportunities by maintaining strong relationships with government, corporate, philanthropic, and community partners.

Develop and manage the 2025 annual budget and prepare the 2026 budget, ensuring financial sustainability and operational efficiency.

Collaborate with the Artistic Director/Chief Conductor to deliver the 2025 program, balancing artistic, financial, and community engagement priorities.

Support the development of the 2026 program, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.

Prepare grant applications, manage contracts, and oversee reporting and acquittals.

Mentor and manage staff across marketing, development, operations, finance, and artistic areas, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.

Drive revenue growth through event income, philanthropy, grants, and sponsorships.

Build and maintain strong networks within local, regional, and national performing arts communities.

Support the Board through effective communication, policy development, and strategic decision-making.

Oversee the organization and delivery of live performances, including venue and personnel contracts.

Act as a passionate ambassador for the orchestra, engaging with stakeholders, including patrons, donors, musicians, and community partners.

Develop and implement marketing, sales, and public relations strategies.

Ensure the effective operation of day-to-day systems and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Provide regular reports to the Board on strategic goals, financial performance, operational risks, and other activities.

Continue the implementation of a multi-year strategic plan to achieve artistic, financial, and community engagement objectives.

Selection Criteria and Attributes:

Proven experience in arts administration or business management.

Strong financial management skills, including budget development and oversight.

Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Demonstrated success in revenue generation, including box office, philanthropy, government funding, and sponsorships.

Creative problem-solving and negotiation skills.

High personal credibility, integrity, and a commitment to ethical leadership.

Experience managing, mentoring, and motivating teams.

Highly organized with a strong attention to detail.

Knowledge of orchestras or the Australian performing arts sector is highly regarded.

Why Join Us?

Lead a unique cultural institution that brings people together through the power of music.

Play a key role in shaping the future of the performing arts in the Northern Territory.

Work in a collaborative and creative environment with passionate professionals.

Competitive salary package with superannuation.

Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the community and cultural sector.

How to Apply:

If you are a strategic leader with a passion for the arts and a commitment to excellence, we want to hear from you!

Please send your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant skills and experience to Kate Stephens, General Manager, at kate.stephens@cdu.edu.au.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

About Us

With our home and our heart in the Northern Territory, we embrace the inclusive, resilient, and courageous spirit of the NT in our campuses and delivery sites that reach a diverse footprint from the capital cities of Darwin, Brisbane and Sydney to the regional hubs of Alice Springs, Palmerston and Katherine and our remote locations in Nhulunbuy, Tennant Creek and on Country – in community, with the community.

Our multi-campus, dual-sector status, virtual and online expertise, course profile, research activities, delivery methods, and operation result from our commitment to the regions in which we operate.

The Northern Territory spans approximately one-sixth of Australia’s landmass and yet is home to just one per cent of the population, of whom 30 per cent are First Nations Peoples.

Due to our location, we are in an enviable position to contribute to the future opportunity of Northern Australia, and our neighbours in the Asia Pacific, through our innovative and impactful training, education, and research.

The University now has the new Strategic Plan in place, which will guide the development of our university