Kaitohu Director

Artspace Aotearoa is searching for its next Kaitohu Director — a rare and significant leadership opportunity at one of Aotearoa's most respected contemporary art institutions.

Founded by artists and arts workers in 1987, Artspace Aotearoa has long been a platform for contemporary art practices underrepresented in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland and beyond. Based on Karangahape Road, the organisation runs an annual programme that fosters critical discourse, supports artists, and connects the Aotearoa context with international conversations.

The incoming Kaitohu Director will lead the implementation of Pūtātara, the organisation's strategic direction through to 2030. This is a full-time, five-year fixed-term role reporting directly to the Tiaki Board of Trustees, with an anticipated start date of January 2027.

The Director will hold artistic, financial, and organisational leadership of Artspace Aotearoa — working closely with the Deputy Director and curatorial team to shape bold, artist-led programming. Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and developing the Artspace Aotearoa team
• Advancing critical discourse in contemporary art locally and internationally
• Strengthening the organisation's identity and public profile
• Growing and diversifying engagement with contemporary art
• Working with the Tiaki Board to evolve Artspace's commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi across programming, governance, relationships, and organisational culture
• Contributing to sector leadership, advocacy, and fundraising
• Acting as a spokesperson and building strong relationships across Aotearoa and internationally

Artspace Aotearoa is looking for an original, future-focused leader with a strong record in visual arts programming and management. You'll bring a creative and critical voice, experience leading staff, a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, diversity, equity and inclusion, and excellent communication and relationship-building skills. A respected or emerging presence within Aotearoa's visual arts sector is important, as is integrity and high professional standards.

The role offers fearless programming freedom in the city centre, fair pay and leave conditions, flexible working arrangements, and genuine investment in your career development — in Aotearoa and internationally.

To apply, send your CV and a supporting statement (or a short video under two minutes) to Bridget@artspace.org.nz by 5pm on Thursday 1 October 2026. A full position description and the Pūtātara strategic direction document are available to download from Artspace Aotearoa's website.