Executive Director

VAPAC is seeking a strategic Executive Director to lead one of Australia's most influential performing arts networks into its next era.

EMPLOYMENT DETAILS

Employment Basis: Full-time, ongoing

Location: Victoria-based, flexible remote working with some travel required

Reporting To: VAPAC Executive Committee

Direct Reports: Program Producer, Marketing Manager, Development Manager

The role includes flexible working arrangements, home office support (PC provided), reimbursement of reasonable travel costs for work purposes and significant sector engagement opportunities.

LEAD ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S MOST INFLUENTIAL PERFORMING ARTS NETWORKS

For over 40 years, VAPAC has connected venues, presenters, producers, artists and industry leaders to strengthen the performing arts sector across Victoria and beyond. Today, as the peak body representing more than 100 performing arts venues and creative industry professionals across Victoria, Tasmania, NSW and the ACT, VAPAC plays a critical role in making touring happen and supporting a vibrant live performance ecology.

From major metropolitan venues to regional theatres, VAPAC supports the people and places that bring live performance to communities every day, through industry leadership, professional development, advocacy, networking, research and Showcase Victoria, Australia’s leading state-based performing arts market.

THE OPPORTUNITY

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of performing arts presenting and touring while leading one of the country’s most respected arts industry service organisations.

As Executive Director, you will be the leading voice for VAPAC’s membership network, advocating for venues and creative industry professionals, strengthening industry partnerships, driving sector conversations and ensuring VAPAC remains responsive, influential and future-focused.

Working closely with an engaged Executive Committee and leading a small, highly capable team, you will deliver programs, events, advocacy initiatives, professional development opportunities and sector-wide collaborations that have genuine impact.

WHAT YOU WILL LEAD

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

You are an experienced, highly relational leader who understands the performing arts ecosystem and the importance of strong industry networks. You may come from performing arts venue management, arts leadership, producing, festivals, touring, advocacy, local government, membership organisations or the broader not-for-profit sector.

To be considered, you will demonstrate:

• Demonstrated senior leadership experience in the arts, cultural, membership or not-for-profit sector. Knowledge of arts funding, public policy and government processes is preferred.
• Strong understanding of the performing arts industry and sector landscape.
• Experience working within or leading a membership-based organisation or stakeholder-driven environment.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders and members.
• Strategic planning, organisational management and leadership capability.
• Strong financial acumen, budget oversight, and demonstrated success in fundraising, sponsorship or revenue generation.
• Experience in advocacy, partnership development and external relations.
• Experience working with or reporting to a Board or governance structure.
• Excellent communication, representation and interpersonal skills.

WHY JOIN VAPAC

This is one of the few opportunities in Australia to lead a peak body dedicated specifically to performing arts venues and theatre professionals. VAPAC is an organisation with real influence, a trusted reputation and a deeply collaborative culture.

You will work remotely with genuine flexibility, while engaging with a dynamic statewide and national network of venues, artists, producers and cultural leaders. At a time of significant change across the creative industries, the Executive Director will help shape how the sector responds, adapts and grows.

HOW TO APPLY

For full position details, visit our website

Applications should include:

• A cover letter outlining your interest in the role.
• A candidate statement addressing the selection criteria.
• A current CV.

Applications close: Wednesday 8 July 2026 at 5.00pm

Submit applications and direct enquiries to: [email protected]

VAPAC exists because strong performing arts networks matter. If you are an ambitious, connected and values-driven leader ready to champion the future of performing arts venues and touring, we encourage you to apply.

Help shape what comes next.