General Manager

Visit https://www.festivalofcolour.co.nz/ for more information about our festivals and organisation.

As General Manager, you will oversee operational planning, fundraising and sponsorship, marketing and communications, manage stakeholder relationships, and ensure smooth and professional delivery of all events while working in close partnership with our Artistic Director. This is a strategic leadership role perfect for someone passionate about arts and cultural development.

This role is 0.8 FTE over an 18-month cycle, with the opportunity to extend. 

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Financial Leadership

• Partner with the Board on strategic planning and implementation
• Lead the development and oversight of the Fundraising and Event Revenue Generation Strategy
• Manage budgets and financial operations for both festivals
• Reporting 

Communication & Stakeholder Relations

• Act as official spokesperson and develop marketing strategies
• Build relationships with funders, sponsors, and community partners
• Manage communications and maintain key partnerships

Operations & Team Management

• Oversee festival operations from planning to delivery
• Lead team of contractors and volunteers
• Ensure smooth ticketing, venues, and event execution

What We're Looking For

• Proven leadership in arts, events, or cultural organisations
• Strong fundraising and revenue generation experience
• Communications expertise
• Team management and stakeholder relationship skills
• Passion for arts and commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi partnership
• Strategic thinking with hands-on operational capability

Preference will be given to candidates already based in the Upper Clutha, Central Lakes and Southern Lakes regions. 

Why Join Us?

Lead prestigious cultural events with national recognition in one of New Zealand's most beautiful regions: the Festival of Colour and Aspiring Conversations. 

Work collaboratively with a supportive Board and creative Artistic Director while making a lasting impact on the Southern Lakes cultural landscape.

Start date: End of March 2026