Assistant Director

Ngununggula, in Bowral, is seeking an experienced Assistant Director to help deliver its exhibition, public program and creative learning activities.

Ngununggula, meaning “belonging” in the traditional language of the Gundungurra First Nation People, is the first regional art gallery in the Southern Highlands of NSW. Since opening in October 2021, Ngununggula has welcomed over 150,000 visitors, including 6,000+ local students. Ngununggula was established in collaboration with the State Government, the National Trust (NSW), Wingecarribee Shire Council and donors. The Gallery boasts a heritage-sensitive, state of the art gallery, an education space, an entry pavilion and a cafe. 

Ngununggula is a registered not-for-profit organisation proudly funded by the Council, state government grants, and donations from private citizens. The Gallery is situated on the historic grounds of Retford Park, a property owned by the National Trust (NSW).

Reporting to the Gallery Director, the Assistant Director role works closely across all aspects of the Gallery’s operations – from curatorial leadership and exhibition delivery to organisational management, logistics and stakeholder engagements. This is a hands-on role for a dynamic arts professional who thrives in a nimble environment and values both creative excellence and operational precision. 

About the role:The Assistant Director will:– lead the development and delivery of Ngununggula’s annual artistic program, ensuring it reflects the cultural vibrancy of the region and aligns with the Gallery’s Strategic Plan.– Co-ordinate and manage exhibitions, events and associated programming, including artist and institutional loans, production schedules and contracted staff.– Work closely with the Director to monitor exhibition and project budgets and support funding submissions, acquittals and reporting.– Oversee day to day financial and administrative processes, including purchasing, payments and approvals.– Manage design and production of digital and print collateral, publications and promotional material.– Coordinate casual staff, contractors, and building maintenance requirements.– Contribute to creative learning, public programs and community engagement initiatives.– Support recruitment and leadership of causal and contract staff, fostering a positive and collaborative team culture. 

About you:You are an experienced arts professional with a strong curatorial sensibility and the organisational confidence to deliver complex programs in a regional gallery environment.

Applications addressing the Selection Criteria should be addressed to Susi Muddiman OAM, Gallery DIrector and inclue a CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Applications close: Monday 19 January 2026, at 12 noon.

Selection Criteria:ESSENTIAL:1. Relevant tertiary qualifications and extensive job-related experience in arts management and programming or a similar role within the arts, museums, theatre or a related sector.2. Experience in curating and managing the development and delivery of dynamic and complex exhibitions, programs and events.3. Proven project management skills including, schedule planning, contract negotiation, financial literacy and artist management.4. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of people, and external stakeholders.5. A strong work ethic – flexible to work hours and responsibilities.6. A collaborative approach to working with colleagues and experience in motivating and leading a team.7. Extensive knowledge of traditional and contemporary arts practice, relevant programs and national and international arts and cultural organisations.

DESIRABLE:1. Relevant experience in a regional gallery environment.