Manager Public Art

Auckland Council is looking for an experienced leader to manage the Regional Public Art Programme — a significant and wide-ranging role shaping public spaces across Tāmaki Makaurau.

Reporting to the Head of Arts & Culture, you'll lead a team of specialists responsible for overseeing a collection of more than 400 artworks, identifying and delivering new commissioning opportunities, and providing strategic advice to elected members, governance groups, and key partners.

Central to this role is a strong commitment to Māori outcomes — supporting tāonga toi partnership projects, fostering mana whenua relationships, and integrating cultural narratives into Auckland's built environment. You'll also serve as lead officer for the Public Art Advisory Panel.

What you'll be doing:

• Overseeing public art commissions and the stewardship of 400+ artworks
• Leading and developing a team of experienced specialists
• Building strategic partnerships with mana whenua, artists, communities, and stakeholders
• Providing high-quality advice in politically aware environments
• Managing programme budgets, forecasting, and project delivery
• Contributing to media, communications, and wider Arts & Culture leadership

What you'll bring:

• Significant leadership experience in arts and culture, local government, or a similarly complex organisation
• Proven success delivering large-scale programmes or portfolios
• Strong arts and culture sector knowledge and networks
• Experience working with mana whenua and Māori frameworks
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills
• Strong financial and project management capability

This is a full-time role based at Te Wharau o Tāmaki – Auckland House, with flexibility to work from home. Salary range: $120,000–$140,000 depending on skills and experience.

Auckland Council offers four weeks' annual leave (plus an extra week after five years), a community day, KiwiSaver contributions at 3.5%, discounted health and life insurance, and access to cultural attractions including the Auckland Art Gallery and Auckland Zoo.