Chief Executive Officer (Indigenous Art Centre Alliance)

Lead with purpose! We\'re looking for a new CEO to work with Far North Qld First Nations art centres.

ABOUT IACA

The Indigenous Art Centre Alliance (IACA) is a network of First Nations art centres, representing more than 400 Indigenous artists from Cardwell in the south through to the Torres Strait Islands in the north. We are Australia’s only peak body dedicated to supporting two distinct cultural groups, serving both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

IACA unites self-determined, community-based art centres across the region, fostering collaboration and a strong network that amplifies members’ voices and responds to their priorities and aspirations. Since 2011, IACA has built a reputation for effective programs and services, driving advocacy, capacity-building, and training and mentoring to strengthen the resilience and visibility of Indigenous art centres, particularly in the face of professional isolation and remoteness.

IACA’s influence also extends to national forums and debates, ensuring member perspectives are represented. IACA champions diversity, equity and inclusion by empowering First Nations voices and leadership. We are committed to building a workplace where people from all backgrounds, abilities, orientation and identities are respected and valued.

POSITION SUMMARY

IACA is seeking a dynamic new CEO to guide the organisation and meet its strategic goals. This is an identified position – Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants only.

The successful candidate will bring experience in strategy, community engagement, cultural leadership, as well as people and partnership management. They will understand the arts and cultural sector, and in particular, the operating contexts of Indigenous art centres.

Our new CEO will demonstrate a capacity to build and sustain impactful partnerships across community, government and philanthropy. They will embody culturally safe leadership to ensure that IACA lives the values it advocates.

They will understand the nuances of working with diverse communities, applying cultural equity and justice to their leadership practice.

They will work collaboratively with our First Nations-led Board, staff and stakeholders to create new engagements and opportunities for sector strengthening, focusing on the creation of safe and sustainable workplace that support self-determination, wellbeing and prosperity.

KEY RESPONSIBLITIES

Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Provide values-driven strategic leadership to advance the aspirations of Queensland’s community-based First Nations Art Centres
• Deliver IACA’s Strategic Plan.
• Build and sustain impactful relationships with government, philanthropic partners, member art centres, and key organisations to advocate, shape priorities, and enhance IACA’s visibility, influence, and long-term impact.
• Lead fundraising efforts, including securing investment from government and philanthropic sources.
• Initiate and commission sector research to support advocacy, policy and program development.

Governance

• Collaborate with the Board to maintain strong, culturally grounded governance that aligns with IACA’s purpose and values.
• Compliance with all legal, regulatory, and reporting obligations, coordinating with accountants, legal advisors, and auditors.
• Prepare high-quality submissions and reports for all levels of government, advocating effectively for issues critical to the sector.

Operational & Financial Management

• Oversee all operational and financial functions, ensuring effective budgeting, reporting and high-quality procedures.
• Manage grant reporting and communications to ensure transparency and accountability.

Team Leadership

• Lead and nurture a high-performing, skilled team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and accountability.
• Oversee all aspects of HR and industrial relations, ensuring a culturally safe, compliant, and supportive workplace.
• Promote generative learning practices and innovation, empowering individuals to grow and adapt to a dynamic environment.