Professional Development Executive

Established to encourage New Zealand film making by an Act of Parliament in 1978, the New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) provides loans and equity financing to New Zealand film-makers to assist in the development and production of feature and short films. It is based in Wellington and has a dedicated staff of 19.

As outlined in meetings with the film industry late last year the NZFC is in the process of re-structuring its staffing to meet the increasing volume of development and financing applications we receive, to manage the Escalator scheme and to provide a better service to the industry as a whole.

This position is offered in the first instance on a fixed 12 month contract.   It is based in Wellington with regular out of town travel.   The position demands a high level of commitment to the role and to the New Zealand film industry.  It is envisaged the successful applicant will have a passion for cinema, good organisational skills and a demonstrated commitment to working as a team.

 This role would suit someone from a production or development background with an interest in training and the right skill set to research and run successful events and workshops. The Professional Development Executive will also read applications to the Early Development Fund and attend meetings whenever possible, in order to function as part of an integrated Development Team, but will not have responsibility for script development.  The successful applicant will be directly responsible to the Head of Development.

This position focuses on:

• Regular consultation with the industry and other members of the NZFC Development Team to identify professional development and training requirements
• Designing, in consultation with the Development Team, courses, schemes and workshops that will increase the skills of NZ filmmakers
• Identifying and building relationships with Industry Professionals in NZ and internationally who can contribute to and enhance the NZFC Professional Development Programme
• Responsibility for the day-to-day running of the Escalator Scheme, in consultation with the Production Executive and other NZFC staff as appropriate
• Regular liaison with the various industry guilds and organisations supported by the NZFC
• Preparation of policy documents and papers to the NZFC Board as required
• Attendance at Early Development Fund Meetings

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A knowledge and understanding of feature film development and production in NZ
• Experience of event management or demonstrably comparable skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to prioritise and work to deadlines
• Experience of working within and managing a budget