Festivals Officer

Full time permanent role (based on 38 hours per week)

Monthly RDO

Exciting opportunity to contribute to the delivery of our diverse festival program at one of Melbourne’s leading Councils for the arts

Ability to transfer or take LSL (Long Service Leave) within Local Government

About the role

We are currently seeking an innovative, passionate and experienced arts leader to join our dynamic festivals team.

The Festivals Officer is a key producing role, leading the delivery of specified festivals and events within the festival program. Working within our diverse community, you will develop strong relationships with the community and work with partners to produce contemporary festival programs. Your responsibilities will include programming, marketing, stakeholder management and liaison with our contracted production logistics company and contract programmer. You will work collaboratively across the entire festival program, including supporting the delivery of Merri-bek’s renowned major events, including the Brunswick Music Festival and Sydney Road Street Party.

This role also assists community members to produce their own events through the management of Council’s event permit process, which includes assessing risk management plans, ensuring appropriate site planning and management and advice on applying for additional permits and licenses.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a producer who is passionate about community and contemporary art practice and keen to develop their skills while working collaboratively with a small and dedicated team in a great inner‑city Council.

Skills and experience required to perform the role

• Significant experience in planning, programming, delivery, marketing and evaluation of festivals and events with diverse communities and a variety of stakeholders.
• Ability to deliver quality and innovative outcomes within tight timelines and within budget.
• Skills in developing, implementing and overseeing internal and external Risk Management Plans and OH&S Procedures.
• Ability to think analytically, strategically and creatively.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide variety of community members and stakeholders.
• Experience and/or interest in community engagement and community cultural development projects.
• Skills in managing a range of administrative processes including issuing and managing event permits, contracts, financials and logistics.
• Demonstrated understanding of Child Safety and Wellbeing requirements and this applies in the Festival Officer role.

What the role can offer

• Monthly RDO
• Extensive opportunities for training & career development
• Salary sacrifice options
• A real sense of work‑life balance & flexible work options
• Employer‑supported study assistance schemes
• Wellness programs

Further support offered for our staff

• Up to 20 weeks primary & up to 5 weeks secondary parental leave
• Purchase leave
• Ceremonial leave
• Gender affirmation leave
• Family violence leave

Merri-bek City Council is proudly diverse and an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, people with disability, and people from every culture, sexuality and gender identity, age and ethnic background. Merri-bek City Council is a Child Safe organisation.

Merri-bek City Council is committed to being a Child Safe Organisation and has zero tolerance for child abuse. We believe children and young people have the right to be and feel safe and that their safety and wellbeing is the responsibility of everyone.