Senior Art Curator and Manager, University Galleries

Lead and deliver a research-informed annual exhibition program across multiple gallery sites Provide senior curatorial leadership for the University Art Collection — including one of the largest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art collections of any university holding — encompassing acquisitions, commissions, deaccessions and touring exhibitions Ensure best-practice standards in collection management, conservation, digitisation, governance and risk Cultivate high-impact partnerships with galleries, artists and cultural institutions across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Maitland, as well as nationally Develop and maintain strong collaborations with key partners, including the Newcastle Writers Festival and New Annual Embed First Nations leadership, protocols and cultural authority in partnership with the Wollotuka Institute and First Nations curators Identify and secure external funding, sponsorships, bequests and philanthropy to support exhibitions, publications and research Lead publications and scholarly outputs that enhance curatorial discourse and institutional reputation Represent the University through professional networks and sector leadership, including Art Museums Australia, and uphold obligations under the Indigenous Art Code

About the Role

The University of Newcastle is seeking a visionary Senior Art Curator and Manager, University Galleries (HEW 8/9) to drive curatorial excellence, strategic direction, community connection and operational leadership for its University Galleries and art collection.

This role offers a rare opportunity to lead the next phase of growth for an established and highly regarded galleries program, strengthening cultural impact, partnerships and reputation within the region and the national arts sector.

As Head of the University Galleries Unit, you will shape and deliver the strategic vision, curatorial direction and operational leadership of the University’s galleries and art collections, aligned with the University’s Arts and Culture Strategy 2025–2030.

This includes stewardship of the University Art Collection, which includes one of the largest collections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art held by any Australian university, requiring culturally informed leadership, ethical governance and sector credibility.

Reporting within the Vice-Chancellor’s Division, you will lead a small specialist team and casual workforce, operate with a high degree of autonomy, and manage your own budget. The role is both strategic and outward-facing, requiring strong engagement across the University and with the broader arts and cultural community.

For more information about University Galleries see: ****************************************************************** our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. We stand proudly on the lands of the Awabakal and Worimi people. Our commitment to deep, respectful collaboration with First Nations communities shapes everything we do. As an anchor institution for the Hunter and Central Coast regions, we champion creativity, equity and cultural connection across our campuses and communities.

What we offer:

In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively.

These include:

- Attractive remuneration package and excellent employment conditions in line with University of Newcastle professional staff conditions.
- Flexible working arrangements (in line with the University’s Flexible Work Policy
35 hour week
- 17% super and salary packaging
Additional University Holiday days, generous personal leave and parental leave, annual leave loading and additional purchased leave scheme
Discounts in private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more
Wellbeing programs

Please click ‘Apply’ to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy before commencing your application.