Employment – Gallery Manager

An exceptional arts organisation opportunity

Employment Type:                       Part-time (25 hours/week)

Location:                                       Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

Salary:                                           $90,000 per annum, pro-rata + superannuation

Canberra Potters is seeking a passionate and energetic Gallery Manager to help shape the future of artistic programs at the Watson Arts Centre, Canberra.

This is a unique opportunity to help shape and elevate the artistic program of a flourishing arts centre and a leading ceramics organisation that is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

ROLE SUMMARY

The Gallery Manager is appointed by the Board of Canberra Potters and will support the CEO in developing the next artistic vision for Watson Arts Centre.

As the Gallery Manager you will be responsible for developing and delivering the annual artistic program for Watson Arts Centre including exhibition and artists-in-residence programs and associated events that; reflect contemporary ceramic art and its relationships to other artistic media, attract leading Australian and international ceramic artists, foster curatorial excellence and appeal to a wide range of audiences.

You will ensure that the Watson Arts Centre artistic program contributes to the national and international profile of arts in the ACT, and to Canberra Potters operational excellence and financial sustainability.

You will be able to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a small team of arts professionals.  You will bring curatorial vision, strategic thinking and a commitment to excellence to the role while having hands on experience in the physical requirements of delivering exhibitions. You will have excellent communication and project management skills and have experience working with and maintaining relationships with diverse stakeholders.

DETAILED POSITION DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATIONS AND ELIGIBILITY

To be eligible for this role you will:

  • Be resident in, or close to, the ACT (required)
  • Have experience in ceramics or related arts as a professional artist, educator or curator (required)
  • Have experience in exhibition design and delivery (required)
  • Hold relevant tertiary qualifications in education, arts administration or curatorial studies or related fields (desirable)
  • Demonstrate experience with teams, diverse stakeholders and the requirements of a not-for-profit setting (desirable)
  • Demonstrate experience in negotiating with and meeting the needs of artists from diverse backgrounds in Australia and internationally.

REMUNERATION

A starting salary of $90,000 per annum, pro-rata. Six-month probation period.

Annual CPI increases. Employer superannuation contribution is as per legislative requirements.

HOW TO APPLY

Your application will need to include:

  • a short pitch of no more than 2 pages outlining why you are interested in the role, what attributes you offer as a Gallery Manager and how these relate to the key responsibilities, relevant career history and achievements, and your leadership attributes.
  • your short form resume (2 pages maximum) including details of two referees.

Applications are required by COB Wednesday 6 August 2025

Interviews will be conducted for shortlisted applicants shortly afterwards.

We will contact referees at the shortlisting stage and not before seeking your approval to do so.

CONTACT

The contact for this position is Jessi England, CEO of Canberra Potters  Email: ceo@canberrapotters.com.au Mb: 0407 230 777

Canberra Potters and Watson Arts Centre acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land where we meet and work, the Ngunnawal and Ngambri people and other First Nations people who are connected with this land. We celebrate and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of the ACT and region. This is Aboriginal land. Always was always will be.