- Join Melbourne’s premier performing arts venue in an exciting time of transformation
- Influence and implement strategies that shape the future of arts philanthropy in Victoria
- Full time ongoing position
About the Position
The Senior Manager, Principal Gifts leads Arts Centre Melbourne’s individual giving strategy, driving programs that secure major gifts (>$10,000), bequests and other private philanthropic contributions. This role advances key priorities – access and inclusion, creative learning, commissioning new works and cultural heritage – while supporting the Capital Campaign (Imagine Anew). You’ll also personally steward a portfolio of high-value donors to grow major gifts revenue.
Full time ongoing position. Salary band 5.1 $122,105.00 plus superannuation.
Your Skills, Qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience
- Minimum of five years in philanthropy with demonstrated success in securing significant philanthropic funding and/or investment
- Experience managing teams and delivering fundraising programs aligned with organisational priorities
- Strong understanding of the philanthropic landscape in Australia
- Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with senior stakeholders
- Ability to lead through change, build trust, and foster team cohesion
- High level of fundraising expertise, including demonstrated experience in securing six-figure+ philanthropic support, across both annual programs and multi-year transformational projects
- Highly developed interpersonal and relationship management skills, with the ability to connect with, influence and engage senior stakeholders.
- A strategic mindset, with a detailed understanding of best-practice cultivation cycle processes in support of moves management towards ambitious fundraising targets
- Strong leadership capabilities, including proven ability to manage budgets, KPIs, and performance reporting in support of team engagement and development
For more information, including the accountabilities of the position, please read 
Position Description - Senior Manager Principal Gifts - Dec 2025.pdf
About the Team
We’re entering a dynamic period of growth and expanding our Development team. A recent strategic review confirmed the need for new roles across philanthropy, partnerships and operations that will help shape the future of how we inspire, connect and champion the arts. These positions will strengthen how we connect with supporters, collaborate across the organisation and deliver meaningful impact for community and the performing arts sector. If you thrive in a growing, ambitious, purpose-driven team, we would love to hear from you.
About Arts Centre Melbourne
Arts Centre Melbourne acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land on which we gather, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung. We also acknowledge the neighbouring Kulin Nation groups, the Boonwurrung and Bunurong people, and pay our respects to elders, past and present.
Beneath our iconic Spire, in Hamer Hall and at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, we showcase the best of Australian and international performing arts.
Together with our own program of performances, events and activities we offer a diversity of audiences a distinctly multidimensional approach to participation, education and entertainment.
We are now focused on Reimagining Arts Centre Melbourne as part of the Victorian Government’s commitment to transforming the Melbourne Arts Precinct into a thriving, connected creative and civic space over the coming years.
For a glimpse into working at Arts Centre Melbourne click here.
Enjoy Team Member Benefits
As a valued member of our ensemble, you will enjoy:
- Complimentary tickets
- Discounts at food & beverage outlets
- Discounted commuter benefits and onsite parking
- Access to wellbeing activities and learning and development programs
- Free access to Employee Assistance Programs which includes specific support to our First Nations team members and members of the LGBTQIA+ community and People of Colour.
Apply Now!
Arts Centre Melbourne welcomes applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Disabled and Deaf people, sexualities and gender identities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community and people of all ages.
We seek to provide workplace adjustments at all relevant stages of the recruitment process such as alternative formats or other access supports. You can specify in the application form if you require any adjustments or please ask us at any stage. If you need to contact us about making workplace adjustments during the recruitment process, please send an email to peopleassist@artscentremelbourne.com.au.
Please submit your resume together with a cover letter expanding on the key criteria, demonstrating your relevant experience and fit, by 11:55pm, Tuesday 6th January 2026.
Early applications are encouraged as applications will be reviewed as they are received, and suitable candidates may be invited to attend an interview prior to the closing date.
Employment at Arts Centre Melbourne will be conditional upon the satisfactory completion of a National Police Check. Appointment at band 5 and above may require completion of a psychometric assessment.
Applications are open to those with full working rights in Australia. Arts Centre Melbourne is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
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