Venue Operations Manager

The Century Group is a live entertainment producer, festival presenter and the operator of a suite of venues that includes the Enmore Theatre, Metro Theatre, the Factory Theatre complex, the Sydney Comedy Store and The Concourse Performing Arts Centre Chatswood.

Century has an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual to join and lead our operations team at the Concourse as a Venue Operations Manager.

Purpose of this Position

The Venue Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operational management, coordination and oversight of The Concourse Performing Arts Centre, ensuring the venue operates efficiently, safely and in accordance with organisational objectives, contractual obligations and legislative requirements.

The role oversees operational delivery across venue services, staffing, facilities, event operations, compliance and reporting, while supporting the successful presentation of performances, events and commercial activities within the venue.

Key responsibilities include

– Assisting with the preparation, monitoring and management of operational budgets and expenditure

– Supporting delivery of the Annual Business Plan and operational objectives

– Overseeing the operational performance of the venue including staffing, facilities, maintenance, safety and service delivery

– Ensuring reporting requirements under the Licence Agreement and other operational agreements are completed accurately and on time, including Annual, Quarterly and Monthly reporting.

Qualifications Required for this Role

A minimum of 5–10 years’ experience in venue operations, theatre management, performing arts, entertainment, events or related industries is considered essential.

Relevant tertiary qualifications in arts management, venue management, event management, business, technical production or a related discipline are desirable.

Organisational Relationships

Reports directly to the Century Executive Team.

Liaises with:

• Willoughby City Council representatives
• Venue hirers, promoters and clients
• Technical, production and front of house teams
• Contractors, suppliers and service providers
• Internal management and operational staff

Accountability

The position is accountable to the CEO and Willoughby City Council for the effective operational management of the venue.

Extent of Authority

The Venue Operations Manager has delegated authority to manage the day-to-day operations of the venue within approved policies, procedures, budgets and contractual obligations.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Maintain productive, collaborative and professional relationships with Willoughby City Council and key stakeholders.
• Manage the day-to-day operational aspects of the Performing Arts Centre.
• Act as a key operational contact for Council representatives, venue hirers and contractors.
• Oversee venue operations including front of house, cleaning, maintenance, security and contractor coordination.
• Ensure the physical presentation, maintenance and operational integrity of all venue spaces under management control.
• Supervise and coordinate onsite operational staff and contractors.
• Ensure all reporting requirements within the Council Licence Agreement are completed accurately and within required timeframes.
• Ensure compliance with venue policies, procedures, Work Health and Safety requirements and all relevant legislation.
• Support the successful delivery of performances, events, rehearsals, community programs and commercial hires.
• Monitor operational performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, service delivery and patron experience.
• Assist in the implementation and continuous improvement of operational systems, procedures and workflows.
• Manage operational issues proactively and respond effectively to incidents and venue-related challenges.

Judgement and Decision-Making

The position requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think laterally, prioritise operational requirements and make informed decisions in a fast-paced venue environment.

The Venue Operations Manager is expected to take initiative and implement solutions in consultation with the CEO and senior management where appropriate.

Specialist Knowledge and Skills

• Demonstrated knowledge of venue operations, theatre management and performing arts venue practices.
• Strong understanding of Work Health and Safety legislation and industry best practice.
• Experience managing operational functions within a theatre, entertainment venue, performing arts centre and/or public facility.
• Proven ability to coordinate multiple operational activities simultaneously in a live event environment.
• Strong financial and administrative skills including budgeting, reporting and operational analysis.
• Understanding of compliance, risk management and contractor management processes.
• Experience working collaboratively with technical, production and front of house teams.

Management Skills

• Staff supervision and team leadership
• Operational planning and coordination
• Budget monitoring and financial oversight
• Reporting, compliance and governance
• Workflow management and prioritisation
• Time management and delegation
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Ability to implement and improve systems, policies and procedures
• Ability to manage competing priorities and achieve outcomes within deadlines and budget parameters
• Ability to identify operational issues, develop solutions and collaborate effectively with stakeholders

Interpersonal Skills

• Positive, professional and collaborative approach
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Ability to lead, motivate and support staff and contractors
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Adaptability and openness to change
• Strong customer and service orientation
• Professional maturity, resilience and sound judgement
• Proactive, solutions-focused approach with strong attention to detail