Programs Manager

Shape Inspiring Programs, Build Sustainable Partnerships and Create Visitor Experiences at the National Wool Museum

Summary

Join the National Wool Museum as Programs Manager and lead the development of innovative public, learning and community programs that inspire visitors, celebrate community, and bring Australia’s stories to life. This permanent, full-time role plays a key part in shaping engaging, inclusive and high-quality visitor experiences that build audiences at one of Australia’s most distinctive cultural institutions.

About the National Wool Museum

The National Wool Museum is a leading member of the City of Greater Geelong’s arts and cultural community. It plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating the region’s rich cultural heritage, social and industrial legacy. Established in 1988 to honour Geelong’s status as the “wool centre of the world,” the museum has evolved into a dynamic cultural institution that explores the broader story of fibre, textiles, innovation and design through exhibitions, education, and community engagement. Programs and activities are aligned to the Museum Vision: A Museum of and for Geelong, and are developed and delivered onsite, outreach and online.

In addition, the Museum manages the City’s significant Art and Heritage Collections, which include both indoor and outdoor assets such as historical artefacts, public artworks, and civic memorabilia. The Museum is responsible for the care and operation of the historic Waterfront Carousel, a beloved community landmark and example of living heritage.

As part of the City’s long-term cultural strategy, the museum reflects Geelong’s 60,000-year living culture – from First Nations heritage to contemporary creativity – positioning it as a central hub for storytelling, civic pride, and cultural tourism.

About the role

The Programs Manager leads the planning and delivery of dynamic public, learning and community programs that support the Museum’s vision, audience development and community impact. Working collaboratively across the Museum and with external partners, the role ensures programs are creatively ambitious, accessible, and aligned with organisational priorities.

This is a permanent full time role with the National Wool Museum, City of Greater Geelong

Key responsibilities include

• Design, develop and deliver innovative public, education and learning programs that engage diverse audiences.
• Build and sustain partnerships with schools, educators, artists and community organisations to strengthen participation and learning outcomes.
• Lead, recruit and support staff, volunteers and student placements to ensure high-quality program delivery.
• Plan and manage audience engagement initiatives that support visitation growth and enhance the Museum’s reputation.
• Contribute to strategic planning, visitor experience initiatives and collaborative program development across the Museum.

 About you

You are an experienced cultural or education professional with a strong commitment to storytelling, learning and audience engagement. You bring well-developed leadership, organisational and relationship-building skills, and thrive in a collaborative environment.

Essential experience and capabilities

• Relevant tertiary qualification in arts, cultural, heritage or education-related fields, with demonstrated experience developing and delivering public and learning programs.
• Proven experience leading teams to deliver successful programs within a museum or comparable cultural or community institution.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in managing volunteers and volunteer programs.
• Strong organisational, project management and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• The successful applicant will be required to undertake a National Police Check and a pre-employment medical assessment (funded by the City) as part of the recruitment process.

Success in this role will be demonstrated by

• High-quality, inclusive programs that enrich visitor experience, attract diverse audiences, and are reflected in positive visitation trends, feedback and repeat engagement.
• Strong education and community outcomes, evidenced through curriculum-aligned learning programs, sustained partnerships, and meaningful access initiatives (including for seniors and people living with dementia).
• Effective leadership and delivery, including well-planned, well-resourced programs, engaged staff and volunteers, and timely delivery aligned with organisational and Council requirements.
• Clear contribution to organisational goals, including audience development, reputation building, financial sustainability, and the ongoing evolution of the National Wool Museum and Carousel.

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, click Apply now and help shape programs that connect audiences with Geelong and Australian culture and heritage.