McArthur has the privilege of partnering with Adelaide Film Festival (AFF), an internationally recognised celebration of contemporary Australian and international screen culture.
About the Adelaide Film Festival...The award‐winning Adelaide Film Festival (AFF) is South Australia's premier screen event, celebrating Australian and international screen culture through a distinctive programme of screenings, forums and special events. Established in 2003, AFF serves both the general public and industry as a leading platform for new films, moving‐image art, interactive projects and conversations. The flagship festival is presented annually in October, with select programmes delivered year‐round. AFF also supports new screen production through its Investment Fund (AFFIF), which has enabled more than 150 projects, many receiving national and international acclaim.
About the role
We are seeking a relationship‐driven, strategic Development & Partnerships Manager to lead the Festival's partnerships and sponsorship programme and steer philanthropic engagement. Reporting to the CEO/Creative Director, this role is central to securing and delivering partnerships and growing philanthropic engagement to support AFF's mission, artistic ambition and long‐term sustainability.
In this pivotal role, you will build and manage meaningful partnerships, develop compelling proposals, and deliver premium partner experiences across the Festival and year‐round events. You will ensure all sponsorship commitments are met, and exceeded, while cultivating long‐term, values‐aligned relationships.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and implement a partnership and business development strategy aligned with AFF's strategic objectives;
* Build and manage a pipeline of cash and contra (value‐in‐kind) partnerships;
* Maintain and grow relationships with existing partners through strong values alignment;
* Develop partnership proposals, contracts and budgets;
* Oversee the delivery of sponsorship rights, benefits and acquittals;
* Plan and manage partner hospitality and major Festival events, including Opening and Closing Nights;
* Work closely with Programming, Guest and Marketing teams to enhance partner engagement;
* Create meaningful year‐round engagement opportunities beyond the Festival period;
* Maintain accurate partner records, reporting systems and databases;
* Contribute to grant applications and prepare formal acquittal reports.
What we're looking for
* Qualifications: A relevant/complementary tertiary qualification (essential);
* Experience: Demonstrated experience managing partnerships, sponsorships or complex stakeholder relationships; experience in arts, festivals or cultural organisations is highly desirable;
* Skills: Strong negotiation, presentation and communication skills, with proven ability to manage contracts, budgets and deliverables;
* Personal Qualities: A proactive, relationship‐focused approach, excellent organisational skills and a passion for screen culture and delivering exceptional experiences;
* Flexibility: Ability to work out of hours, particularly in the lead‐up to and during the Festival period.
Benefits
* Meaningful Impact: Play a key role in supporting one of Australia's most respected screen festivals;
* Flexible Environment: Enjoy a supportive workplace with flexible working arrangements, including some WFH options;
* Career Growth: Be part of a small, committed team where your contribution directly shapes the Festival's success;
* Creative Culture: Work in a vibrant, collaborative environment driven by creativity and innovation;
* Networking Opportunities: Build relationships with a wide range of partners, creatives and industry leaders.
Why join the Adelaide Film Festival?
This is a rare opportunity to combine relationship management, strategic thinking and a love of the arts in a role with genuine impact. You'll thrive in a flexible, high‐energy environment, working hard during the Festival period and enjoying balance once the curtains close.
Apply Now!
If you're ready to bring your expertise and enthusiasm to the Adelaide Film Festival, please visit mcarthur.com.au and reference job number J8740. We welcome applications including a CV and Cover Letter outlining your interest and suitability for the role.
For confidential enquiries, please contact Tamara Chambers – Senior Associate, Executive Search on (08) 8100 7000.
Join us in championing bold storytelling at the Adelaide Film Festival.
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