Head of People & Culture (Interim)

A senior leadership opportunity to drive the organisation’s HR strategy through a dynamic transition.

We are partnering with Perth Festival to recruit an interim Head of People & Culture. This is a senior leadership role to steer the organisation’s HR strategy during a dynamic period of transition. This interim position is until March 2026, with the possibility of becoming permanent pending organisational review.

About Perth Festival

As Australia’s longest-running arts festival, Perth Festival enriches lives through creativity and storytelling. Based on Whadjuk Noongar Boodjar, the Festival prioritises Indigenous traditions, cultural inclusivity, and excellence in arts delivery. Our values are Innovation, Excellence, Access, and Trust, which shape a collaborative, purpose-driven workplace.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the CEO and as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will lead the People & Culture function, including:

• Steering HR strategy and operations across recruitment, performance, ER/IR, and development
• Delivering Culture Action Plan and Reconciliation Action Plan initiatives
• Overseeing compliance, wellbeing, and psychosocial safety practices
• Leading organisational design and workforce planning
• Managing the People & Culture team serving year-round and seasonal staff

This role offers strategic influence and opportunities to build engagement in a fast-paced arts environment.

About You

You bring senior HR leadership experience, ideally from creative, complex, or NFP sectors, with:

• A demonstrated ability to deliver HR strategy and operations aligned with organisational goals
• Strong ER/IR and compliance experience
• Expertise in wellbeing of workforces
• Calm, assured leadership in fast-moving, dynamic environments
• A values-driven approach

Benefits

• $140,000 – $150,000 salary
• 5 weeks annual leave
• Christmas closedown period each year
• Flexible work (1 WFH day/week, flexible start and finish times)
• Free & discounted tickets during Festival delivery (Feb–Mar)
• Access to an Employee Assistance Provider
• Active social club and strong collegial culture
• Convenient location close to public transport, Kings Park, and Matilda Bay

Application Process

Please apply with your CV and cover letter, outlining how your skills and experience would make you the ideal candidate with reference to the context of the role.

Applications close Friday, 5 September 2025.

Appointments may be made at any point in the process, including before the closing date, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.