Executive Director

The Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership, management and sustainability of Chunky Move.

The Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership, management and sustainability of Chunky Move, ensuring the company’s artistic vision is enabled through strong governance, sound finances, effective operations and strategic partnerships. Working in close partnership with the Artistic Director and the Board, the Executive Director leads the organisation’s strategy, resources, culture and reputation to position Chunky Move as one of Australia’s leading contemporary dance companies. 

The Executive Director also acts as Company Secretary, ensuring the organisation meets all statutory, regulatory and governance obligations. 

This is a high-profile public leadership role requiring strong engagement with the company, the arts sector, government, partners and media. 

Reports to: Board  

Direct Reports: 

• Senior Creative Producer (jointly with the Artistic Director) 

• Marketing & Communications Manager  

• Production & Operations Manager  

• Finance Manager 

• Office & Program Coordinator 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategy, Governance & Leadership 

• Lead the development and delivery of the company’s long-term strategic plan and annual business plans with the Board and Artistic Director. 

• Lead governance processes, including preparation of Board and Committee reports across programs, finance, risk, management and compliance. 

• Ensure full legislative and regulatory compliance across all areas of the organisation. 

• Oversee and maintain the company’s Risk Management Framework, policies and procedures in line with best practice. 

Financial Sustainability & Resources 

• Lead and manage the company’s budget (approx. $2M+) and financial performance, ensuring long-term sustainability. 

• Build and manage a diversified revenue base across government funding, non-government funding, philanthropy, sponsorship, earned income and entrepreneurial opportunities. 

• Lead high-level negotiations with government and key stakeholders to secure the best financial, production and strategic outcomes. 

• Oversee budgeting and financial monitoring in collaboration with the Senior Creative Producer and Production & Operations team to ensure all activities are financially viable. 

Organisational Leadership & Culture 

• Lead, support and develop the company team in a safe, healthy and collaborative environment where people thrive and skills are shared. 

• Foster a culture of inclusiveness, engagement and accountability across the organisation. 

• Lead the delivery of the company’s multi-year Equity Action Plan, ensuring reflection, evaluation and continuous improvement. 

• Oversee, and at times lead, the company’s First Peoples strategy and engagement in partnership with First Nations personnel and in accordance with the First Peoples Engagement Framework. 

Partnerships, Profile & Brand 

• Lead the company’s government relationships and strategic partnerships. 

• Strengthen Chunky Move’s reputation and profile locally, nationally and internationally across the sector, funders and presenters. 

• Oversee company brand strategy, marketing performance, audience data and evaluation processes in collaboration with the Marketing & Communications Manager. 

Operations & Infrastructure 

• Oversee contracts, compliance, office systems, policies, risk management and occupational health and safety. 

• Lead long-term planning for company infrastructure and accommodation, including venue management, precinct relationships and future space needs, in collaboration with the Production & Operations Manager. 

To express interest in the role 

Please reach out to Recruitment Lead, Jade Lillie on [email protected] for a confidential discussion about the role. 

By 11.59pm on Monday 2 March 2026, send a CV and cover letter (maximum two pages) outlining your suitability for the role including skills, experience and leadership qualities.