GENERAL MANAGER

A significant national leadership opportunity at the heart of Australia’s screen industry.

Since 1958, the Australian Film Institute has championed Australian screen storytelling and the people who bring it to life. As custodian of the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts, AFI delivers Australia’s pre-eminent screen awards, the AACTA Festival, and a year-round program of screen culture, industry development and public engagement. With more than 4,500 members, AFI/AACTA is the largest screen membership organisation in the country.

The General Manager will join AFI/AACTA at an important moment. The organisation has significant momentum, a highly regarded national brand, major industry and broadcast relationships, and a clear opportunity to build on these strong foundations.  The General Manager is central to that next phase.

Reporting to the Board, the General Manager leads the organisation’s day-to-day operations, guides and supports a committed team, and translates AFI/AACTA’s strategic priorities into clear plans, strong execution and measurable outcomes. They will lead the AACTA Awards and Festival, the year-round screen culture program, and oversee AFI/AACTA’s work across membership, partnerships and talent development.

This role carries four main accountabilities:

• Lead the operational delivery of AFI/AACTA’s programs, including the AACTA Awards, the AACTA Festival, the International and Audience Choice Awards, and the year-round Screen Culture Program.
• Help drive financial sustainability bringing commercial discipline to programming, awards and events.
• Represent AFI/AACTA externally, with media, industry and government, in partnership with the Chair.
• Build a high-performing, inclusive team and the operating discipline AFI/AACTA needs to deliver on its strategic ambitions.

FURTHER INFORMATION

This process and search is led by REA arts + culture, specialists in executive search for creative industry leaders across Australia. As a candidate engaging with REA, we understand applying for roles can be both an exciting and vulnerable process. We pride ourselves on treating people with respect and discretion and will support you throughout the process.

Prospective applicants should first review the detailed Candidate Pack and key selection criteria, available via the REA arts + culture website below. Candidates who can demonstrate strong alignment with the experience and requirements outlined are welcome to contact REA arts + culture for a confidential discussion prior to submitting an application.

Conversation requests should be submitted prior to Monday 7 September, 2026.

Vanessa Duscio, Managing Partner

Rebecca Wyles, Senior Associate

REA arts + culture

Visit: reaartsandculture.com

Email: [email protected]

DEADLINE

Applications are due before 6pm, Friday 11 September 2026.

AFI/AACTA is committed to an inclusive and equitable workplace and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.

LOCATION

The full-time position is based in Melbourne.

CONTRACT ENTITLEMENTS

AFI/AACTA is offering a competitive, Full-time, ongoing contract.

Other relevant information

• This role requires flexibility, including occasional evening and weekend work, as well as the ability to work flexibly during the AACTA Festival period. Some travel will also be required.
• This role is expected to commence in October 2026