Specification for CEO of Biennale of Sydney
The Biennale of Sydney promotes international cultural exchange by increasing dialogue and mutual understanding and developing audiences for contemporary art. Since 1973, it has presented 14 critically acclaimed, popular and large-scale exhibitions, which have brought the work of over 1,200 artists from more than 60 countries to Australia and showcased the best and boldest of Australian art in a new international context. As Australias largest and best-attended contemporary art event, around 250,000 visits were recorded across all venues and programs over each of the last 3 exhibitions in 2000, 2002 and 2004.
The current Managing Director who has worked with the Biennale over the past 20 years will retire soon and her successor in the key CEO role is now being sought. The aim is to create a smooth transition with the new CEO in place to work with her during the 2006 Biennale and to assume responsibility for the organisation after that time.
The position of CEO of the Biennale of Sydney demands a high-level combination of knowledge, leadership, presentation and negotiation skills. The successful candidate will have exceptional business, administrative and marketing skills and undoubted ability to bring on board financial support, as well as ensure the integrity and success of both the organisation and the artistic program. Additionally, the ideal candidate should have a proven knowledge of the visual arts, particularly of modern and contemporary art.
The ideal candidate will preferably have an excellent understanding of how the Australian art scene works. He or she will have a strong reputation based on a career in either administrative or curatorial pursuits ideally including public art galleries, or festivals. Candidates will have a record of success and achievement and will bring to the role the significant professional and managerial experience appropriate to the position.
Further information, including a detailed position specification, is available from www.biennaleofsydney.com.au or by telephone on ( 61 3) 9629 7203.
Confidential expressions of interest, to arrive by 30 April, should be addressed to: Chairman, Biennale of Sydney, PO Box 367, Collins Street West, VIC 8007, or sent by e-mail to melsearch@ozemail.com.au
