The Head of Partnerships plays a critical role in supporting Opera Australia’s financial sustainability by leading the development, acquisition, and renewal of corporate partnerships.
This role is responsible for delivering a comprehensive corporate partnership strategy that aligns with Opera Australia’s fundraising objectives and artistic vision. Working closely with internal stakeholders, corporate partners, the Board, and Executive leadership, you will cultivate long-term, mutually beneficial relationships that enhance the impact and reach of Opera Australia.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage Opera Australia’s corporate partnerships portfolio, including cash and contra arrangements, ensuring strong stewardship, retention, and growth
* Develop and deliver partnership renewals, contract negotiations, and tailored sponsorship proposals in collaboration with the Development Director, CEO, Board, and key stakeholders
* Meet budgeted sponsorship targets and oversee forecasting, budgeting, and performance reporting
* Identify, research, and secure new corporate partnership opportunities aligned to Opera Australia’s strategic and fundraising priorities
* Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with corporate partners, sponsors, and senior stakeholders
* Ensure delivery of all contractual benefits with professionalism and attention to detail, maintaining accurate partnership records and reporting
* Collaborate closely with Marketing, Communications, Events, and Artistic teams to maximise partner activation, recognition, and impact, including the delivery of partner events
* Lead, support, and develop team members while representing Opera Australia at partner functions, industry events, and performances as required (interstate travel may be required)
About You
* 5–7 years’ proven experience in corporate fundraising, partnerships, sponsorship sales, business development, or relationship management
* Strong understanding of corporate giving, CSR, and sponsorship trends
* Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
* Demonstrated ability to build and sustain strong, long-term corporate partnerships
* Highly organised and proactive, with strong project management skills and exceptional attention to detail
What We Offer
Being Australia’s National opera company, we are committed to fostering a safe and collaborative environment for all. Our values are Curious, Creative, Collaborative, Brave, and Inclusive, and we are dedicated to supporting your journey at OA.
* Complimentary tickets to select Opera Australia shows
* Hybrid and flexible work environment
* Strong diversity and inclusion priority
* Generous Leave Policy including First Nations Cultural & Ceremonial Leave, Cultural & Religious Holiday Leave, Education Leave, Women’s Health Leave, Gender Affirmation Leave, and more
* 16 weeks' paid Parental Leave and continued payments of superannuation if using Unpaid Parental Leave
* Access to salary packaging through SmartSalary
* Discounted retail goods through our Swag Rewards platform and other affiliated businesses
If this sounds like you, click ‘Apply’ to send through your CV and cover letter.
Applications close on 4 March 2026.
For any enquiries about this role, please contact our People team at People@opera.org.au.
About Opera Australia
Opera Australia is one of the world’s most celebrated opera companies with an ambition to bring an Australian stamp to telling great stories through music and song, and a commitment to develop and nurture new generations of Australian talent on and off the stage.
Opera Australia is the largest and busiest performing arts organisation in Australia, with over 800 opera performances a year, including opera seasons in Sydney and Melbourne, Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour, musical theatre, opera concerts and a range of other activities. Through its touring arm, the Company reaches out to communities in regional Australia, and also delivers an extensive program to school students. Opera performances are broadcast and distributed nationally and internationally.
The Company manages the Opera Australia Orchestra and also works in partnership with Orchestra Victoria. The Company works with leading directors and designers, and employs a large number of highly skilled people in the areas of scenic construction and painting, wardrobe and wig-making, stage production, and management and administration. Overall, the Company plays a vital role in developing and sustaining a specialist skills base in this unique area of the performing arts.
For more about OA please refer to our website: opera.org.au
Opera Australia is committed to enabling and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness. Our team come from all walks of life. We acknowledge that all individual differences, life experiences, self-expression, and talent represent our culture and reputation of Opera Australia. In recruiting for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring in terms of education, opinions, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression.
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