Position Overview

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) seeks a visionary First Nations arts and cultural leader to serve as Senior Curator, First Nations Art. This pivotal leadership role will shape the Gallery's First Nations art program during a transformative period, including the historic expansion with The Fox: NGV Contemporary opening in 2028.

Key Responsibilities

Collection Development & Curatorial Leadership

Lead the strategic development, expansion, and interpretation of the NGV's First Nations Art Collection

Conceptualize and deliver innovative exhibitions, research initiatives, and public programs that elevate First Nations art and culture nationally and internationally

Ensure best-practice collection stewardship with ethical and culturally appropriate management of First Nations works

Contribute to the NGV's broader curatorial strategy and institutional vision

Team Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

Manage and mentor a dedicated curatorial team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and cultural safety

Build and strengthen relationships with First Nations artists, communities, institutions, and funding bodies

Drive meaningful representation and engagement with diverse First Nations perspectives

Serve as a key spokesperson and advocate for First Nations art at national and international levels

Strategic Direction

Position the NGV as a leader in the presentation and promotion of First Nations art globally

Develop innovative approaches to interpretation, storytelling, and audience engagement

Align First Nations programming with the NGV's artistic vision and expansion plans

Contribute to the Gallery's commitment to truth-telling and cultural inclusion

Qualifications & Experience

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent (this is a designated First Nations position under s 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic))

Demonstrated curatorial expertise and leadership in First Nations art

Strong track record developing major exhibitions, acquisitions, and publications

Proven leadership and people management capabilities

Established networks within the First Nations arts community

Exceptional communication skills and ability to engage diverse audiences

Strategic thinking and organizational alignment skills

Position Details

Reports to: Assistant Director, Curatorial and Audience Engagement

Location: Melbourne (NGV International and NGV Australia)

Position Type: Permanent (full-time)

Application Process

NGV is partnering with Fish Nankivell for the search process. For a confidential discussion, contact Andrew Abbott at aabbott@fishnankivell.com.

To apply, submit:

Cover letter outlining your motivation and suitability

Comprehensive CV detailing professional experience

Contact details for three referees (contacted only with prior consent)

About Us

Fish & Nankivell as it was originally named, was established in 1984 by co-founders, Ian Nankivell and Greg Fish.

Both gentlemen were working independently in senior roles, Ian as CEO of a division with the Pratt Group and Greg in partnership under Slade, Fish & Banks.

Knowing that Slade, Fish and Banks were looking at going their separate ways, Greg approached Ian of whom he had developed a strong association with, and together they forged a successful business relationship as executive search professionals under Fish & Nankivell.

The partnership flourished and not too far down the line, they both co-founded along with US based search professionals in Leon Farley and Christopher Mill, Penrhyn International. Today Penrhyn has representation in 14 countries providing the member firms with acute access to a global reach.