Chief Executive Officer

An exciting opportunity to lead the iconic National Theatre, Ballet and Drama Schools—driving growth, education, partnerships & excellence.

Position Summary

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for the strategic leadership, financial sustainability, excellence and philanthropic growth of The National. As the organisation moves into its next phase, it seeks a growth-minded CEO who can drive long-term investment, build philanthropic and corporate partnerships, and drive The National’s overall excellence and impact in Melbourne’s arts sector.

The CEO will also play a critical role in external relations, securing local, state, and federal funding, advocating for policy initiatives that support arts education and venue sustainability while fostering an uplifting and collaborative internal organisational culture.

Key Responsibilities

Drive Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Lead The National’s strategic direction, aligning operations with a revitalised 2025-2030 Strategic Plan.

• Strengthen the identity of The National as Melbourne’s premier vocational arts training and performance hub.

• Ensure the organisation’s long-term growth, relevance, and adaptability to sector changes.

• Champion a culture of innovation, continuously improving arts training models, venue operations, wellbeing and stakeholder engagement.

Be Accountable for Financial Sustainability & Revenue Growth

• Develop and execute a robust philanthropic strategy, securing major gifts, grants, bequests, and corporate sponsorships.

• Oversee financial sustainability, optimising revenue streams (school fees, venue hire, food & beverage, philanthropic investment) and cost.

• Establish a donor engagement framework, fostering long-term relationships with individual and institutional funders.

• Lead capital fundraising campaigns, securing resources for infrastructure upgrades and heritage preservation.

Engage Stakeholders Deeply

• Prioritise student and staff wellbeing, embedding a supportive and thriving workplace culture.

• Proven ability to foster collaboration and unity across diverse teams and business units, through effective leadership.

• Build and maintain strong relationships and support with local, state, and federal government agencies.

• Advocate for arts funding and policy, ensuring The National remains a priority in cultural investment.

• Develop mutually beneficial strategic partnerships with councils, arts organisations, and industry bodies to enhance The National’s impact.

• Represent The National in government forums, arts advocacy groups, and funding negotiations.

Advance Excellence in Arts & Education Leadership

• Advance excellence in vocational performing arts education, ensuring compliant programs that remain industry relevant.

• Develop strategic alliances with industry to enhance student career pathways, internships, and professional mentorship.

Propel Venue & Audience Growth

• Position The National as a welcoming, diverse performance venue, expanding hirer engagement.

• Drive the thinking around audience strategies, leveraging brand, digital platforms, and stakeholder engagement to enhance reach.

• Oversee capital works projects, ensuring heritage preservation and modernisation of facilities.

Key Selection Criteria

Essential Experience & Skills

• Proven executive leadership in not-for-profit, arts, or cultural organisations.

• Extensive experience in fundraising, philanthropy, and strategic donor engagement.

• Strong financial acumen, with expertise in revenue optimisation, cost optimisation and stakeholder-driven investment.

• Expertise in vocational performing arts education and industry training standards.

• Track record in stakeholder engagement, advocacy, and long-term partnerships.

• Exceptional communication, governance, and organisational development skills.

• Demonstrated ability to engage with government agencies, secure funding, and influence policy.

• Demonstrated experience reporting to and working effectively with a Board of Directors.

• Must have permanent work rights in Australia.

• Must be able to obtain Working with Children Check and Police Clearance.

Highly Desirable Qualities

• Passion for the performing arts, education, and cultural heritage.

• A visionary mindset, capable of navigating sector trends and industry shifts.

• Commitment to fostering equity, inclusion, and sustainability in the arts.

• Experience leading capital development and infrastructure projects in arts organisations.

Remuneration & Benefits

• Competitive salary package aligned with experience.

• Opportunity to lead a historic and transformative arts institution.

• Professional development and networking within Australia’s leading arts circles.

In your covering letter please state:

About The National

Located in the vibrant bayside suburb of St Kilda, The National is a heritage-listed, 783-seat performing arts venue that has been a cornerstone of Melbourne’s cultural and educational landscape since 1921. Originally built as the Victory Theatre, it was transformed into a live performance venue in 1974, preserving its stunning Beaux Arts architectural style while adapting to the evolving needs of artists and audiences.

The National is home to Australia’s oldest vocational performing arts schools—The National Drama School (est. 1936) and The National Ballet School (est. 1939)—which have trained generations of actors and dancers who have gone on to shape the Australian and international arts industries. These schools provide craft-focused, industry-ready training, ensuring students graduate with the technical expertise and professional experience required for successful careers in the performing arts.

As part of St Kilda’s historic cultural precinct, The National stands alongside The Palais Theatre and Luna Park, contributing to the area’s rich artistic heritage. In 2023, St Kilda was officially declared Victoria’s first Live Music Precinct, reinforcing its status as a hub for creative expression.

The National operates as a not-for-profit company, funded primarily through self-generated income and philanthropic support. It does not commission or produce work but instead serves as a welcoming, professional venue for hire, supporting a diverse range of productions and artistic voices. The Theatre’s intimate setting, historic charm, and commitment to accessibility make it a sought-after space for performers, audiences, and community events.

The National Drama School and The National Ballet School are Registered Training Organisations, offering accredited courses that blend rigorous technical training with real-world performance opportunities. Students benefit from daily immersion in a professional industry setting, bridging the gap between education and career readiness.

With a commitment to excellence, inclusion, and sustainability, The National continues to evolve, ensuring its legacy as a premier performing arts institution remains strong for future generations.