About the ACO
Led by its charismatic Artistic Director, Richard Tognetti AO, the Australian Chamber Orchestra is Australia’s most dynamic performing arts organisation. Renowned world-wide for its inspired and courageous programming and unrivalled virtuosity, the ACO collaborates with an extraordinary range of artists including the world’s leading soloists, cinematographers, visual artists and contemporary musicians and entertainers.
The ACO is based at its award-winning home, ACO On The Pier, in Sydney’s Walsh Bay Arts Precinct (WBAP), an exciting space for live performance, community engagement and collaboration. Following the ACO’s 50th Anniversary last year, and with a new website project and Tessitura v16 upgrade due to launch in Q1 next year, you’ll be joining at a pivotal time and be part of a high performing, ambitious and creative team who are always looking for bold new ways to grow audiences and amplify the ACO’s national and international reputation.
About the position
The Venue Operations Manager is a key member of the ACO On The Pier team and is responsible for the facilities management of the ACO premises within the Pier 2/3 building. They ensure the safe and smooth running of internal and external operations across ACO’s venues including maintenance, venue management systems, safety, logistics, and Precinct stakeholder coordination. The Venue Operations manager owns the outcomes of venue operations and facilities management and supports the outcomes of event management and delivery. Where maintenance tasks are the responsibility of the Create NSW Walsh Bay Arts Precinct (WBAP), they liaise with and coordinate maintenance with the Create NSW Facilities Manager. In addition the role undertakes and manages strategic and systems improvements projects and operations tasks as delegated by the COO and Head of Production & Technical.
What we're looking for
Skills & Experience
• Demonstrated experience in venue management practices, including Workplace Health and Safety, logistics, facilities and asset management systems and processes;
• Functional knowledge and experience of event technology practice across the disciplines of lighting, sound, audio visual and rigging;
• Experience managing budgets and financial processes;
• Experience managing and administering contracts including contractor services agreements;
• Excellent attention to detail;
• Advanced computer skills, including proficiency in standard event management systems;
• Strong written and verbal communication, interpersonal and relationship management skills, with demonstrated experience building effective relationships across a wide range of stakeholders;
• Excellent project and time management skills, with the ability to:
- manage competing projects and priorities;
- meet strict deadlines;
- plan ahead; and
- maintain oversight of interconnected events and activities;
• Strong influencing, advocacy, negotiation and conflict resolution skills;
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the capacity for swift and effective decision making under pressure;
• Knowledge and awareness of the Arts environment, including current trends, issues and the economic climate.
Advantageous Qualifications & Experience:
• Tertiary qualifications and/or substantial experience in one or more of the following:
- facility management;
- project management;
- construction management;
- asset management;
- event, stage or production management; or
- a related field
• Experience in working with performing arts venue management database systems (e.g. Artifax);
• Experience delivering a range of events including classical recitals, youth education, commercial functions, corporate meetings, contemporary entertainment, and community, with an understanding of their planning and operational requirements;
• Ability to use CAD drawing programs (e.g. Vectorworks).
Attitudes
• Commitment to high level, solution focused customer service;
• Ability to work with enthusiasm and flexibility in a fast pace, agile, small team environment;
• A kind team player who does not compromise on personal responsibility;
• Initiative, self-motivation and self-discipline; and
• An interest in music.
Terms
This position is a permanent, full-time position based in the ACO’s office in Sydney.
WHY JOIN US?
At the ACO, you’ll be part of a team that values creativity, excellence, and collaboration. You’ll work in a stunning waterfront location, contribute to world-class music experiences, and help shape the future of one of Australia’s leading cultural organisations.
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
The ACO is committed to equity and inclusion and welcomes applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with a disability, mature age workers, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) people.
Apply
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to join our team. To apply, please download the position description and forward your CV and an accompanying cover letter outlining your relevant skills and experience to [email protected].
Download position description here.
If you have any queries about the position or its requirements, please contact Alexandra Cameron-Fraser, Chief Operating Officer – [email protected]
Applications close Monday, 13 October 2026.
The ACO is committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a supportive and barrier-free workplace. If you require any adjustments before or during the selection process, please email [email protected].
