Assistant Director, Operations

Assistant Director, Operations About Geelong GalleryGeelong Gallery Ltd is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, and its principal purpose is to operate the public art gallery in Geelong.
The Gallery was established in 1896 and is one of Australia’s leading public art museums, and holds a magnificent collection of Australian and European painting, printmaking, sculpture, decorative arts and design. The Gallery has an outstanding reputation for community engagement and for the presentation of scholarly and critically acclaimed exhibitions that celebrate historical and contemporary art, and it aims to provide an inclusive experience of art that enriches peoples’ lives. By providing access to a broad range of exhibitions, public programs, and educational activities, the Gallery contributes meaningfully to the cultural vibrancy of the Geelong region.
About the RoleThe Assistant Director, Operations is the Gallery’s senior operational leader, responsible for governance, organisational performance, financial sustainability, and operational excellence across all business functions.
Reporting to the Director & CEO, this role functions as the Gallery’s chief operating lead and a key member of the Senior Leadership Team. The position oversees Finance, Commercial Operations, Facilities, Human Resources, IT, and Visitor Experience, ensuring the Gallery operates as a high-performing, resilient, and future-focused organisation.
The Assistant Director, Operations plays a critical role in enabling the Gallery’s strategic ambitions, including the advocacy to achieve a major redevelopment as part of the Geelong Cultural Precinct. The role works closely with the Board, government stakeholders, and partners to ensure strong governance, sustainable growth, and organisational readiness for expansion.
Initial priorities include strengthening governance systems, enhancing financial sustainability, and preparing the organisation for major capital expansion.
The Assistant Director, Operations acts for the Director & CEO as required.
You will play a key role in – · Governance, Risk & Compliance· Operational Leadership & Performance· Financial Sustainability & Commercial Performance· Strategic Development & Growth· Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy· People & Culture Leadership
The role is full time ongoing and is based in Geelong.What can we offer you!Geelong Gallery is in an exciting period of growth across the organisation, and this role will be central to the advocacy towards a major redevelopment project offering exciting opportunity to career progression of Victoria’s leading regional galleries. The Gallery offers an exceptional exhibitions program that affirms our commitment to artistic excellence and to the delivery of programs that offer opportunities for widely inclusive, life-long learning. We promote integrity, respect and teamwork in our business and as an employer, we are committed to providing equal opportunities and a positive work environment.
Geelong is one of the fastest growing regions in Australia and is celebrated for the mix of urban and coastal lifestyle it offers and its vibrant community.
How to ApplyTo view the position description visit geelonggallery.org.au/about/opportunitiesApplications close Sunday 6 September 2026Applications should include a cover letter, responses to the selection criteria and a current CV.
Applications should be submitted to: employment@geelonggallery.org.auorHuman ResourcesGeelong Gallery55 Little Malop StreetGeelong VIC 3220
Confidential enquiries can be directed to Eileen Sims, Executive Office Manager, eileen@geelonggallery.org.au