Art Centre Manager

Lead Tiwi Design, one of Australia\'s oldest art centres - support artists, strengthen culture and grow a celebrated Aboriginal-led cultural enterprise

Lead with purpose. Make space for creativity. Help Tiwi culture thrive.

Tiwi Design is seeking an inspiring, experienced Manager to lead one of Australia’s oldest and most artistically diverse remote art and culture centres. Based in Wurrumiyanga on Bathurst Island, you’ll work alongside the Board of Directors, artists and community to guide a vibrant Aboriginal-led arts enterprise—supporting artists, strengthening operations and helping preserve and share the richness of Tiwi culture.

This is a unique opportunity to shape an organisation where art, culture and community wellbeing are closely connected. Tiwi artists create across a remarkable range of forms, including ochre paintings, carvings, ceramics, textiles, sculpture and limited-edition prints. Their work carries Tiwi stories, traditions and individual Jilamara. As Manager, you’ll help create the conditions for artists to produce outstanding work, develop creative and commercial opportunities, and pass culture on to future generations.

You’ll lead the day-to-day management and long-term sustainability of Tiwi Design, working closely with the Board and artists on financial management, governance, administration, marketing, sales, promotion and funding. You’ll also support artist development, mentor Aboriginal arts workers, and represent Tiwi Design at regional and interstate industry events. With a new museum preparing to open, this is an especially exciting time to help share the centre’s collection and deepen visitors’ understanding of Tiwi art and culture.

We’re looking for a grounded, resilient and self-motivated leader with a strong track record in an arts and culture centre, regional gallery or comparable creative organisation. You’ll bring sound business and financial skills, exceptional communication, and at least three years’ experience working cross-culturally—ideally alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and communities. A respectful, service-focused approach and the ability to build trust are essential; experience in a remote setting will be highly valued.

The role will suit someone who listens deeply, works collaboratively and is motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a thriving community-led organisation. Applications from collaborators or couples interested in this role and the Studio Coordinator position are encouraged.

Join Tiwi Design and help build a strong future for Tiwi artists, culture and community.

CONDITIONS

Salary: $110,000 plus super

Allowances: 

• Fully furnished, 3 b/r house, rent free, including utilities
• Six weeks leave plus time off in lieu by negotiation and leave loading
• Salary sacrifice options
• Relocation expenses and annual airfare of $1,500
• 4WD with limited personal use

DUTIES

• Advise and support the Board of Directors on Tiwi Design’s management and strategic direction, including developing and implementing business plans.
• Foster a positive, inclusive workplace that embraces change, continuous learning, mentoring and collaboration.
• Build and maintain relationships with members and stakeholders, including industry bodies, funders, contractors, tourism operators and local organisations.

• Support artists to develop professionally through culturally informed projects, licensing arrangements and commercial art opportunities.
• Manage the exhibition schedule.
• Ensure the quality, documentation and sale of artworks across all platforms, including exhibitions, art fairs and online.

• Work with the Board of Directors on strong governance and decision-making.
• Respect and uphold traditional law and leadership structures.
• Ensure compliance with the CATSI Act and all other relevant legislation.

• Work closely with the accountant to ensure effective financial management and compliance, including budget.
• Identify opportunities to grow revenue and new funding opportunities.
• Prepare and manage funding and maintain strong partnerships with government and non-government funders.
• Ensure the Stories Art and Money (SAM) database is accurately maintained.

• Foster Indigenous employment and participation.
• Ensure staff and artists follow workplace policies and procedures.
• Provide staff with the tools, training and supervision to perform effectively.
• Coordinate mentoring and training and performance management.

• Lead strategies to protect and grow Tiwi Design’s brand and public profile.
• Support staff in driving sales and delivering local, national and international marketing.
• Assist with the delivery of the tours and related tourism opportunities.

• Oversee the maintenance and use of Tiwi Design’s buildings including guest accommodation, vehicles and equipment.
• Lead planning and delivery of future upgrades, including staff housing.
• Ensure the studio and surrounding grounds are safe, functional and welcoming work environments.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Essential

 Desirable

• Prior experience living and working in a remote Aboriginal community.
• High level of personal resilience and emotional stability, with the ability to navigate the challenges of remote living calmly and constructively.
• Experience of the Stories Art and Money (SAM) database or similar cataloguing system.

 Other requirements

• Current driver’s license, with experience in 4-wheel driving in remote settings (or willingness to undertake training).
• Willingness to live in a remote community and travel as required.
• A National Police Certificate that should have been completed within the last three months and a valid NT Ochre Card (working with children clearance) or equivalent.

APPLICATIONS

Applications that do not address all selection criteria will NOT be considered. 

Applications must include a cover letter, current CV and statement addressing the selection criteria. Please include the details of two recent/relevant referees.

Applications close on Monday 2 November at 5pm Central Standard Time.  Late applications will be at the discretion of Tiwi Design. 

Your application should be marked Confidential and must be submitted by email to: [email protected]