Lead a bold and transformative program
Foster creativity and tactical urbanism
Support the economic resurgence in the City of Melbourne

About the organisation

Located on the traditional lands of the Bunurong Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation, Melbourne is renowned as one of the world’s most liveable and culturally vibrant cities. A global leader in arts, education, tourism, and economic opportunity, the City of Melbourne is a place of innovation, creativity, and ambition. The Business, Economy, and Activation (BEA) Division partners with industries and key sectors to position Melbourne as the premier destination for work, study, tourism, investment, and lifestyle. As a global hub for events, arts, culture, and education, BEA plays a crucial role in fostering economic resilience, attracting top talent, and strengthening Melbourne’s reputation as a thriving, world-class city.

About the role

A key member of the leadership team and reporting to the General Manager, Business, Economy, and Activation, the Director, Creative Melbourne leads a bold and transformative program that shapes the city’s creative landscape, public spaces, and cultural vibrancy. This role is pivotal in driving Melbourne’s creative resurgence through strategic policy, grants, infrastructure, and placemaking initiatives. Collaborating across industries and government, the Director requires an entrepreneurial mindset, delivering high-impact public programs, arts projects, and tactical urbanism initiatives that enhance Melbourne’s public life, creative landscape, and economic revitalisation following the pandemic.

About you

A visionary and strategic leader, you bring a deep passion for the role of arts in the city and a proven ability to lead diverse teams to deliver meaningful, creative outcomes. You thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments and excel at uniting stakeholders across disciplines and sectors, to drive impactful change. With a collaborative and influential leadership style, you excel in stakeholder management, effectively navigating complex, high-profile, and politically sensitive environments. Your exceptional communication and strategic thinking foster creativity, innovation, and cross-sector partnerships. You take a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach, embedding a culture of ambition, inclusivity, and excellence. With a strong track record in delivering transformative arts, urban activation, and placemaking initiatives, you bring valuable experience from global and major city contexts. This is a rare opportunity to shape the cultural and creative future of one of the greatest cities on the planet.

The City of Melbourne is proud to be a workplace that champions diversity and equal opportunity. Applications are welcome from experienced leaders who hold aligned values and have a commitment to empower a workforce where people feel connected, safe and supported so that they can be at their best and deliver great outcomes for the community.

For more information, see the Position Description, or click ‘Apply for this job’ to submit your resume and a concise cover letter (1-page). Direct and third-party applications will be forwarded to SHK. Ad closes 31st March 2025.