Development Assistant

Sydney-based full-time and entry-level opportunity to join a major performing arts organisation, working in a small, dynamic and dedicated team.

Sydney Based

Full Time

• Exciting opportunity to join major performing arts organisation
• Small, dynamic and dedicated team

Bell Shakespeare is one of Australia’s foremost theatre companies. Established in 1990 by John Bell AO, Bell Shakespeare was created to present Shakespeare’s work in ways that are meaningful and accessible to Australians of all backgrounds and locations. The company is the only national theatre company in Australia that tours to theatres, schools and communities in every state and territory.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Development Assistant to join our busy development team and support our philanthropy and corporate partnerships functions. Bell Shakespeare relies on the unwavering support of its community of donors, corporate partners and trusts and foundations – each playing an integral role in the Company’s mission to ensure Shakespeare’s work can be shared by all.

This is an excellent role for a candidate looking to start their career in the performing arts. It requires a driven individual who will ensure all administrative and support tasks are delivered to the highest standards, as well as providing exceptional customer service to members of our community. The Development Assistant will be required to attend Opening Night functions, corporate and donor hospitality events and the annual fundraising Gala, therefore, some evening and weekend work will be required.

Who you are

The role would suit someone who thrives in a demanding, fast-paced environment, with the ability to juggle multiple projects at any one time. You will be an organised, detail-oriented self-starter who is personable, warm, collaborative, creative, enjoys working with spreadsheets and data, and will contribute to a positive team culture.

As part of the Bell Shakespeare team, you will

• Receive complimentary tickets to all Bell Shakespeare productions
• Receive ongoing professional development
• Be based in a spectacular location at Walsh Bay Arts Precinct
• Have the opportunity to work within major performing arts venues, including Sydney Opera House, Arts Centre Melbourne and Canberra Theatre Centre

To be considered as a successful applicant:

Candidates for this role do NOT require

• Experience in the arts industry
• A tertiary qualification
• English as a first language
• An Australian driver’s licence
• Australian citizenship or permanent residency

Candidates for this role require

Essential Criteria

• Proficient with Excel and Microsoft Office Suite
• Excellent communication skills
• Enjoys solving problems
• Attention to detail
• Organisational skills
• Strong team player and able to work autonomously
• Demonstrated attention to detail
• Sociable and comfortable building relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Ability to juggle tasks and manage competing priorities
• Minimum age 18+ years
• A valid visa with permission to work in Australia for a minimum of 2 years

Desirable Criteria

• Experience using Tessitura (ticketing and database) or similar CRM database
• Project/event management skills and experience
• Experience using the Adobe design suite, particularly InDesign
• An interest in the performing arts

Application:

If you are interested in this role, please send your application to the attention of Ell Katte, Philanthropy and Major Gifts Manager to hr@bellshakespeare.com.au

Download the position description here.

Applications must include:

The Bell Shakespeare Company Ltd is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with a disability, mature age workers, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and LGBTQIA+ people. We believe that Shakespeare is for all.

The closing date for applications is 10am Monday, 21 July 2025. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Ell Katte (Philanthropy and Major Gifts Manager) at ellk@bellshakespeare.com.au.