Gallery Management & Operations

James Blackie Gallery, located on Wellington's Clyde Quay Wharf waterfront, is looking for an exceptional person to join their team in a varied, hands-on role spanning gallery operations, exhibitions, artist and client relationships, sales, and marketing.

This is a full-time position working closely with Gallery Director James Blackie across virtually every aspect of running a professional commercial art gallery. The gallery works with some of New Zealand's leading artists, collectors, and institutions, delivering a dynamic programme of exhibitions, private sales, commissions, and secondary market artworks.

Key responsibilities include:

• Welcoming visitors and providing a warm, knowledgeable gallery experience
• Assisting with artwork sales, private sales, commissions, and secondary market transactions
• Building and maintaining relationships with collectors, artists, and gallery supporters
• Registering, cataloguing, photographing, and managing artworks in inventory systems
• Planning and coordinating exhibitions, openings, artist talks, and client events
• Managing the gallery website, social media, newsletters, and marketing communications
• Overseeing daily gallery operations, administration, and financial record-keeping

What they're looking for:

• Genuine enthusiasm for and knowledge of New Zealand contemporary art
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organisational skills
• Initiative, resourcefulness, and ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Confidence with digital platforms, social media, and business software
• Desirable: experience in a gallery, auction house, or arts organisation; photography and video skills; graphic design; financial administration

This role offers significant professional development, with a clear pathway to progress into a Gallery Manager position as experience and capability grow. Remuneration is competitive and commensurate with experience.

To apply, send your CV and a short introduction outlining your experience, interest in the role, and what you'd bring to James Blackie Gallery to katja@jamesblackie.com. Applications close 30 October 2026.