Director – Adelaide Writers’ Week

Adelaide Festival is seeking an outstanding Director of Adelaide Writers’ Week to lead one of the world’s most respected literary festivals.

Founded in 1960, Adelaide Writers’ Week (AWW) is a globally recognised celebration of literature, ideas and public discourse, attracting around 150,000 attendances annually. Presented as a core, free six-day program within Adelaide Festival, Writers’ Week is renowned for its ambitious curation, deep audience loyalty and international reach.

About the role

The Director provides the artistic vision and curatorial leadership for Adelaide Writers’ Week, shaping an annual program of local, national and international writers that is dynamic, inclusive and intellectually ambitious.

Working closely with the Executive Director, Artistic Director and senior leadership team, the Director will:

• Curate and deliver the annual Adelaide Writers’ Week program
• Build and sustain strong relationships with writers, publishers, agents and literary partners
• Act as the public spokesperson for the program
• Lead and inspire the Writers’ Week team
• Oversee programming within a multi-faceted festival environment
• Identify opportunities for innovation, partnerships and long-term sustainability

The role is supported by experienced teams across marketing, production, partnerships, philanthropy and administration.

About you

The next AWW Director will bring:

• Deep knowledge of contemporary literature and publishing
• Strong national and international literary networks
• Proven experience delivering major literary or cultural programs
• Sound judgement and the ability to navigate complex public conversations
• A collaborative leadership style and organisational acumen
• A commitment to inclusivity, accessibility and diverse voices, including First Nations writers

Term and remuneration

• Three-year term, with the possibility of a one-year extension
• Offered on a contractor basis, with remuneration negotiated with the successful candidate
• Interstate travel requirements will be considered where relevant

How to apply

Applications should include:

• A written response addressing the Position Description and your vision for Adelaide Writers’ Week
• CV and short biography

Applications should be emailed to Executive Director, Julian Hobba at [email protected]

Applications close 5pm (ACST) Wednesday 18 March

Full recruitment pack including the Position Description available here.