Chief Executive / Tumu Whakarae

Q Theatre is more than a venue— it’s been the beating heart of Auckland’s performing arts precinct. Since opening our doors in 2011, it’s been a stage for bold ideas, boundary-pushing performances, and unforgettable stories. Just what the sector wanted.

The power of the arts to connect, challenge, and inspire is core to Q’s purpose which is achieved through enabling the incredible talent of Tāmaki Makaurau and beyond to perform in its spaces.

With three theatre spaces and a bar and restaurant, Q is loved by artists and patrons alike and is a beacon in mid-town Tāmaki Makaurau.

The venue buzzes with energy, hosting everything from ground-breaking theatre to dynamic dance, vibrant festivals and corporate hostings.

Q, celebrates diversity, amplify underrepresented voices, and honours Te Ao Māori. It’s committed to making art accessible and creating a space where everyone feels they belong.

The Opportunity

Are you ready to lead one of Auckland’s most iconic arts organisations? As Chief Executive / Tumu Whakarae, you’ll take Q Theatre to the next level. This is your chance to make a lasting mark on Aotearoa’s cultural landscape.

You’ll drive our vision, nurture relationships with artists and key stakeholders, and ensure Q remains a thriving and welcoming hub for creativity and entertainment, enhancing its unique place in the city’s performing arts ecosystem

Q has marked some significant milestones in the last year, including its 15-year birthday celebration and two of its biggest infrastructure spends to date – replacing its largest air handling unit and its docklift, all enabled with support from funders and donors. Capital works will continue to be a focus, along with strengthening its financial position.

The role requires you to be commercially astute, and able to quickly understand the nuances of the business and where the biggest opportunities for future business, brand and stakeholder impact lie. You’ll understand the demands of not-for-profits, appreciate the complexity of running this type of organisation, know how to build and maximise support from funders, donors and sponsors, and lead positive change.

Working alongside a passionate team and a dedicated Board, you’ll be the guiding force behind everything we do, paving the way to future success.

What Success Looks Like

·         Q Theatre is buzzing with a reputation for year-round extraordinary performing arts experiences that attract and excite diverse and loyal audiences.

·         Q is financially sustainable and is supported by engaged donors and funding partners.

·         Q’s impact and unique role in the performing arts landscape is clearly understood and embraced.

·         Q has deep, authentic connections with stakeholders, artists, and funders.

·         The team culture is collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking.

What You’ll Bring

·         Vision: You can see the big picture and chart a path to get there.

·         People Skills: You’re a natural connector and relationship builder.

·         Leadership with Heart: You know how to inspire and empower others.

·         Business Savvy: You’ve got the know-how to keep the books balanced and spot new opportunities.

·         Fundraising Finesse: You know how to secure support for big dreams.

·         Cultural Competence: You embrace diversity and understand Te Ao Māori.

About You

·         10+ years leading high-performing teams.

·         Proven experience in strategy and financial management.

·         A commercial mindset and proven experience.

·         The ability to effectively engage and build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.

·         A fund-raising champion who can embed this ethos into the culture and led effective engagement with donors new and old.

·         Passionate about creativity and fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive culture.

·         A huge love of the performing arts.

·         Experience in creative industries, not-for-profits, hospitality or hotels would be advantageous.

·         Connected to diverse communities and committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi.