Tjala Arts Art Centre Manager

Tjala Arts is seeking a committed Art Centre Manager!

Do you want to join us to lead one of Australia’s most renowned Aboriginal Art Centres?

We are looking for a dynamic and dedicated leader to be our Art Centre Manager. This impactful and highly rewarding role is available at internationally acclaimed Tjala Arts, located in the beautiful Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in remote northwest of South Australia. The position provides a unique opportunity to lead all areas of the business. Additionally, the role collaborates with a dedicated and talented team of artists, art centre staE community members in a cross-cultural setting, making a direct impact on the continued growth and success of one of Australia’s most esteemed Aboriginal Art Centres.

The Art Centre Manager ensures Tjala Art Centre delivers and secures various artistic and employment opportunities and participates in culturally affirming and impactful community projects.

About Tjala Arts

An Aboriginal owned and managed corporation, Tjala Arts boasts an exciting multidisciplinary art production and exhibition program supporting established, mid-career and emerging artists.

Tjala Arts is renowned for its innovation, rich cultural diversity, and artistic excellence. Our artists include acclaimed figures such as 2019 Wynne Prize winner Sylvia Ken, Yaritji Young, Iluwanti Ken, Naomi Kantjuriny, Frank Young and many more. We proudly nurture emerging talent and maintain a deep commitment to preserving Anangu culture through contemporary practice.

At Tjala Arts, art involves cultural leadership, economic development, and community engagement.

“Nganampa Art Nganana walytjanguku Business palyanu. Munula Tjukurpa kunpu kanyini – Our Art. Our Business. Keeps our culture strong.”

Frank Young

About the Role

Working directly with the Tjala Arts Board of Directors, the Art Centre Manager leads all areas of operations, including:

• Governance and operational management

• Financial management and strategic planning

• Artistic development and artist support

• Sales, marketing, and exhibitions

• Human resources and staE leadership

You will continue to develop current programs while seeking additional revenue streams and projects that create economic, social, and cultural benefits for the Art Centre’s members and community. The role is responsible for a team of Aboriginal arts workers, studio staff including a Studio Manager and more than 30 practicing artists.

About You

This leadership position requires a multi-skilled, team-oriented person with a high level of cross-cultural competence. It is suited to a dynamic, highly organised, and adaptive person who is committed to working with Anangu to create long-term economic and cultural benefits. In addition to organisational governance support and business management, the manager also mentor’s art centre studio staff.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic and Governance Leadership:

• Implement and regularly update the Art Centre’s strategic and business plans.

• Service the Board of Directors, ensuring compliance with ORIC and CATSI Act requirements.

• Respect traditional law and cultural leadership frameworks.

Artistic and Professional Development:

• Support and nurture artists’ professional practice.

• Coordinate exhibitions, marketing initiatives, and special projects.

• Maintain quality standards for artwork production and documentation.

Financial and Business Management:

• Oversee budgets, funding applications, financial reporting, and compliance.

• Supervise stock control, sales, retail and wholesale operations.

• Develop new revenue opportunities, including merchandising and licensing. 

Marketing and Promotion:

• Drive national and international marketing initiatives.

• Maintain and grow gallery, retail, and institutional partnerships.

• Manage online sales and social media presence.

Community Engagement:

• Lead and manage staff, including recruitment and performance management.

• Foster a culturally safe, supportive workplace.

• Build and maintain strong relationships within the local and broader community

Selection Criteria Essential:

1. Tertiary qualifications and/or extensive experience in arts or business management.

2. Proven skills in business and financial administration.

3. Demonstrated experience securing and acquitting grant funding.

4. Leadership and people management skills, including cross-cultural communication capabilities and mentoring skills.

5. Proficient in IT systems, database management, and professional communications.

6. Current driver’s licence (manual) and willingness to travel remotely.

7. Capacity to live and work in a remote Indigenous community.

Highly Desirable:

8. Strong understanding of the Australian and international Aboriginal art markets.

9. Experience coordinating artistic production and exhibition

Salary and Conditions

• Salary Range: $75,000 – $85,000 (cash component)

• Superannuation: 11.5%

• Leave Entitlements: o Six weeks annual leave

• Accommodation: Subsidised housing provided

• Transport: Work vehicle

• Relocation Assistance: Available

• Salary Packaging: Eligible

• Professional Development: Supported

How to Apply Please submit:

1. A Cover Letter summarising your background and suitability.

2. A Resume, including employment history, relevant training, and skills.

3. Names and contact details of two professional referees.

4. A written response addressing each selection criteria.

Applications should be sent to:

Directors of Tjala Arts [email protected]

For further information, contact [email protected]