About the role

The Programs Manager leads the planning and delivery of dynamic public, learning and community programs that support the Museum’s vision, audience development and community impact. Working collaboratively across the Museum and with external partners, the role ensures programs are creatively ambitious, accessible, and aligned with organisational priorities.

Work type: Permanent full time

Classification: Band 7 Commencing at $106,158 pa plus superannuation

Key responsibilities include

• Design, develop and deliver innovative public, education and learning programs that engage diverse audiences.
• Build and sustain partnerships with schools, educators, artists and community organisations to strengthen participation and learning outcomes.
• Lead, recruit and support staff, volunteers and student placements to ensure high-quality program delivery.
• Plan and manage audience engagement initiatives that support visitation growth and enhance the Museum’s reputation.
• Contribute to strategic planning, visitor experience initiatives and collaborative program development across the Museum.

About you

You are an experienced cultural or education professional with a strong commitment to storytelling, learning and audience engagement. You bring well-developed leadership, organisational and relationship-building skills, and thrive in a collaborative environment.

Essential experience and capabilities

• Relevant tertiary qualification in arts, cultural, heritage or education-related fields, with demonstrated experience developing and delivering public and learning programs.
• Proven experience leading teams to deliver successful programs within a museum or comparable cultural or community institution.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in managing volunteers and volunteer programs.
• Strong organisational, project management and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• The successful applicant will be required to undertake a National Police Check and a pre-employment medical assessment (funded by the City) as part of the recruitment process.

Success in this role will be demonstrated by

• High-quality, inclusive programs that enrich visitor experience, attract diverse audiences, and are reflected in positive visitation trends, feedback and repeat engagement.
• Strong education and community outcomes, evidenced through curriculum-aligned learning programs, sustained partnerships, and meaningful access initiatives (including for seniors and people living with dementia).
• Effective leadership and delivery, including well-planned, well-resourced programs, engaged staff and volunteers, and timely delivery aligned with organisational and Council requirements.
• Clear contribution to organisational goals, including audience development, reputation building, financial sustainability, and the ongoing evolution of the National Wool Museum and Carousel.

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, click Apply now and help shape programs that connect audiences with Geelong and Australian culture and heritage.

Child Safety Responsibilities 

We are committed to being a child-safe organisation and have zero-tolerance for child abuse. We have specific policies, procedures, and mandatory training in place to support employees, volunteers, and contractors to achieve and adhere to these commitments. Please read our Child Safe Standards Management Policy.  

Diversity and Inclusion 

At the City we want a workforce that reflects the community we live in. We welcome and embrace everyone, all people with their own unique experiences, and support and encourage all our employees to do their best work, have equal access to opportunities and a just working environment. For this reason, we particularly welcome and encourage applications from First Nations people, people with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, from the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disability and people of all genders, ages and diverse experience.

We are the City

From parks to offices, childcare centres to works depots, leisure facilities to the Wool Museum and waterfront, our team plays a vital role in shaping our vibrant and growing community. Our community counts on us to get the essentials right while looking for ways to go beyond. By listening, collaborating, and focusing on sustainability, we strive to do the basics brilliantly and create a lasting impact. If you’re ready to be part of something bigger, join us in shaping the future of Geelong.

We support accessibility and encourage discussions about any adjustments or support you may need during the recruitment process.

Applications and Enquiries

Click the Position Description link to view more information about this position.

Applications close: 11:55pm 12^th May 2026.

Position Description

Enquiries: Nikki Short | Senior Talent Aqcuisition Partner | Nikki.Short@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

Click the Apply button to submit your application or find out more about this opportunity. If we can assist you with any reasonable adjustments in order to submit your application for this role, please contact the Talent Acquisition team via email at careers@geelongcity.vic.gov.au  noting your preferred method of communication and contact details and a member of the team will be in touch.

We collect demographic data to help us learn who our advertisements are reaching and how we can reach an even more diverse audience. We are committed to building a more diverse team. Your responses to our demographic questions are strictly confidential and will not be individually shared.

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