About Tactile Arts
Tactile Arts is a member-based, not-for-profit organisation that has been championing contemporary art and craft in Darwin and the Northern Territory since 1973. We run a rich year-round program of exhibitions, workshops, artist residencies, three retail spaces, and the beloved Makers Markets - all from our gallery and studios in the grounds of MAGNT.
With a 300+ strong membership, circa $800,000 annual turnover, and a passionate community behind us, Tactile Arts is a well-established organisation with strong foundations and genuine momentum.
The Opportunity
We're looking for an experienced, commercially minded General Manager to lead the day‐to‐day running of Tactile Arts. This is a hands‐on leadership role for someone who thrives on variety - from overseeing a busy program of events and managing multiple revenue streams, to leading a small team and maintaining the relationships that keep the organisation strong.
The foundations are in place. You're stepping into a well‐run organisation with good systems, a loyal membership, and a respected community profile. Your job is to keep it running brilliantly - and find opportunities to take it further.
What You'll Be Doing
* Managing the day‐to‐day operations of Tactile Arts across the gallery, studios, and three retail spaces
* Planning and delivering the annual program: exhibitions, workshops, Makers Markets, and artist residencies
* Leading a small team of part‐time staff, member volunteers, and contractors
* Managing budgets and multiple revenue streams to ensure financial sustainability
* Writing and acquitting grant applications, and driving funding diversification
* Growing and nurturing the Tactile Arts membership base
* Building and maintaining relationships with government, arts organisations, MAGNT, and community stakeholders
* Creating international exchange opportunities
* Supporting the Board with governance, reporting, and strategic planning and policy
* Overseeing marketing, communications, and the Tactile Arts public profile
About You
* Proven experience in a general management or senior operational role, ideally in a small‐to‐medium organisation
* Strong financial management skills, including budget oversight and a track record of sustainability across multiple revenue streams
* Experience in writing successful grant applications and managing acquittals
* Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a team
* Solid project and event management skills - you know how to deliver a busy calendar on time and on budget
* Experience working with or within a membership organisation
* Sound understanding of governance in a nonprofit or incorporated association context
* Excellent communicator and relationship‐builder
* Self‐directed, highly organised, and comfortable wearing many hats in a small team environment
Why Apply?
This is a rare opportunity to lead a genuinely loved organisation in a role that offers real variety, community connection, and the chance to make a meaningful contribution to the Top End arts sector. Darwin is a brilliant place to live and work, and Tactile Arts sits right at the heart of its creative community.
Full time or part time considered for the right candidate - we're open to discussing a working arrangement that suits.
To Apply
Click Apply to submit your CV and a cover letter (maximum 2 pages) outlining what you'll bring to this role.
Applications are reviewed as received.
Applications close 2 July 2026, or when a suitable candidate is found.
For more information, visit https://tactilearts.org.au/pages/careers or email *****@tactilearts.org.au.
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