Chief Financial Officer/Corporate Services Director

Lead the financial and operational heartbeat of Perth Festival, shaping the vision and success of Australia’s premier arts festival.

As a key member of the executive team, this role works closely with the Chief Executive Officer and Artistic Director to ensure the Festival’s world-class events and artistic vision are delivered on a foundation of financial sustainability, operational discipline, governance excellence, and cultural leadership. Responsible for whole-of-organisation operations, including finance, governance, legal, enterprise risk and corporate services, the CFO/CSD provides strategic oversight and drives long-term financial and operational strength, influencing decision making at the highest levels of the Festival. This is a permanent position.

What makes us different?

As Australia’s longest running arts festival, Perth Festival enriches lives through creativity and storytelling. Based on Whadjuk Noongar Boodjar, the Festival prioritises Indigenous traditions, cultural inclusivity, and excellence in arts delivery. Our values are Innovation, Excellence, Access, and Trust, which shape a collaborative, purpose-driven workplace.

What you will be doing?

As the CFO/CSD you will:

• Partner with the CEO and Artistic Director to embed financial sustainability and operational discipline across all departments.
• Lead financial strategy, long-term planning, budgeting and transparent reporting.
• Provide governance oversight, act as Company Secretary and Public Officer, and ensure compliance across legal and regulatory frameworks.
• Drive enterprise risk management and oversee contracts and corporate services.
• Strengthen organisational systems, technology, and infrastructure to support delivery.
• Partner with Development and Marketing to grow revenue and strengthen commercial partnerships.

What we are looking for?

As a strategic leader who can balance artistic ambition with financial rigour, you’ll bring:

• Demonstrated executive leadership in senior operations, finance, or CFO-equivalent roles.

• Relevant tertiary qualifications, CA or CPA qualified or equivalent

• Knowledge and understanding of financial policy, legal requirements and procedures.

• Strong record of financial sustainability, governance, and risk management.

• Proven ability to embed accountability, process discipline, and continuous improvement.

• Skilled in people leadership, organisational culture, and stakeholder engagement.

• Strategic thinker who can balance artistic ambition with operational and financial realities.

• Experience in arts and culture sector desirable.

Why work with us?

• Generous salary package and benefits
• 5 weeks annual leave, plus discretionary additional days
• Christmas closedown period each year
• Flexible work environment
• Free & discounted tickets during Festival delivery (Feb–Mar)
• Access to an Employee Assistance Provider
• Active social club and strong collegial culture
• Convenient location (UWA Crawley) close to public transport, Kings Park, and Matilda Bay

How to apply?

Please submit

• A brief cover letter of no more than 2-3 pages addressing the selection criteria and outlining why you are the best person for the role.

• A resume including your contact details, education, previous work and the names of at least two current referees.

Applications close Friday, 24 October 2025 at 4pm.  We reserve the right to close the applications early.

Early applications are strongly encouraged as interviews may commence and an offer made prior to the closing date.

For a confidential discussion or for a candidate information pack, please contact our recruitment partner, Tara Roopra, on 08 6219 7102 or recruitment@talenting.com.au.

Please note: The selection process may involve multiple interviews, completion of a work sample, psychometric assessment, and reference and compliance checks prior to appointment.