Venue Operations Manager – Turner Centre, Kerikeri

Become the Venue Operations Maestro at the Turner Centre

Are you a seasoned operations professional with a passion for creating exceptional event experiences? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment where you can lead a team to deliver outstanding service? The Turner Centre, an award-winning venue at the heart of the Far North's arts and culture scene, is looking for a skilled and dedicated Venue Operations Manager. In this pivotal leadership role, reporting directly to the General Manager, you'll drive the operational heartbeat of our centre, ensuring every event is a resounding success.

Imagine yourself providing the essential operational backbone for the seamless delivery of performances, conferences, and community gatherings, working alongside a talented team and contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of our region. This is more than just a job; it's a chance to shape experiences, enrich our community, and make a real difference.

Why Join the Turner Centre Whānau?

Be part of an award-winning team The Turner Centre is a cornerstone of arts and community life in the Far North, celebrating recent achievements including 165% growth over the past four years and recognition as the Winner of the EVANZ Award for Best Small Venue of the Year. As our Venue Operations Manager, you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of our venue by driving operational efficiencies, boosting team performance, and supporting our strategic vision, contributing significantly to our success and ongoing revitalisation efforts.

We're more than just a venue; we're a tight-knit team committed to excellence and innovation. As our Venue Operations Manager, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Lead and inspire a passionate team of event professionals.
• Shape the operational framework of a leading arts and events centre.
• Contribute to the ongoing growth and success of our organisation.
• Be part of a supportive and collaborative whānau.

As part of our leadership team, you'll collaborate closely with internal staff and external stakeholders, including hirers, artists, suppliers, and government partners. Your leadership will help keep the Centre a safe, efficient, and vibrant space for arts, events, and community engagement.

What You'll Do: Setting the Stage for Success

• Facility & Asset Management: Oversee the maintenance, security, and overall management of the venue's facilities and assets, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all.
• Technical & Systems Oversight: Develop and manage the venue's technical infrastructure, including AV, lighting, sound, and equipment systems, ensuring seamless integration and operation for every event.
• Team Leadership: Lead and manage the operational team (Event Coordinator, Visitor Experience Manager, Event Producer, Venue Intern, Venue Technician), providing guidance, support, and creating a positive and productive work environment.
• Financial Management: Manage financial processes such as invoicing, bill management, reconciliations, coding, show settlements, batch payments, payroll, and reporting, ensuring financial accuracy and compliance.
• Risk & Compliance: Proactively identify and mitigate operational risks, ensuring compliance with all health and safety regulations, licensing, and regulatory requirements.

What You Bring to the Stage:

• Operational skills in an event, performing arts or venue environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of financial processes and reporting, including payroll management.
• Strong team management and HR skills.
• Solid experience in project management and contract negotiation.
• Deep knowledge of venue management, event operations, and technical production (AV, lighting, sound, rigging).
• Ability to develop and implement policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency with industry-standard tools like Microsoft Office, Xero, GSuite, project/venue management software, and project management platforms.
• Adaptability and agility to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Ready to Drive Exceptional Event Delivery?

If you're a passionate and experienced operations professional looking for a challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to apply. Join our whānau at the Turner Centre and help us create unforgettable experiences for our community

Apply now and be a part of our exciting future Full Job Description below. For more information email Gerry Paul at

Job Description: Venue Operations Manager

POSITION:

Venue Operations Manager

PURPOSE:

Leading the oversight and management of operations at the Turner Centre, this role encompasses day-to-day management and driving operational excellence across all areas. Key accountabilities include venue operations, financial management, technical and equipment oversight, team leadership, health and safety, and facility and asset management. The role provides hands-on support for staff and stakeholders, working with the team to deliver outstanding service for external hirers.

EXTENT OF CONTRACT:

This is a full-time position with some evening and weekend hours as required.

REPORTS TO:

General Manager

MANAGES:

• Event Coordinator
• Visitor Experience Manager
• Event Producer
• Venue Intern
• Venue Technician

KEY RELATIONSHIPS:

Internal:

General Manager, Event Coordinator, Visitor Experience Manager, Event Producer, Venue Technician, Marketing & Communications Manager, Venue Intern

External:

Hirers, Artists, Promoters, Technical Teams, FNDC, Suppliers & Contractors, Accountants

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Facility & Asset Management

• Oversee the maintenance, security, and overall management of the venue's facilities and assets.
• Coordinate routine inspections, scheduled maintenance, and capital upgrades to assets to maximise lifespan and safety.
• Work with the FNDC team to integrate the long term maintenance plan with capital projects.

2. Technical & Systems Oversight

• Develop and oversee the venue's technical infrastructure, including AV, lighting, sound, and equipment systems, ensuring seamless operation and integration across all areas.
• Coordinate technical support and maintenance programs to ensure all equipment remains functional, up-to-date, and operates at optimal performance levels.
• Manage venue-specific software, subscriptions, and data management.

3. People & Team Management

• Lead and manage the operational team, providing guidance and support as the first line of support and reporting for staff.
• Oversee HR functions including team management, staffing, and contractor relations.
• Foster a positive team environment and support staff development and performance.

4. Financial Responsibilities

• Manage financial processes such as invoicing, bill management, reconciliations, coding, show settlements, batch payments and reporting.
• Financial management, including payroll, and financial analysis.
• Ensure accurate financial records and compliance with relevant financial regulations.

5. Risk, Compliance & Health and Safety Management

• Proactively identify and mitigate operational risks, ensuring compliance with all health and safety regulations, licensing, and regulatory requirements.
• Implement and maintain comprehensive safety protocols, including emergency procedures, safe operating practices, staff training, and monitoring systems.

KEY CAPABILITIES & SKILLS

• Proven leadership and strategic planning skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong financial management and experience with budgeting, forecasting, and payroll
• Proven project management skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage systems, policies, contract management and negotiations
• Experience with venue management and event operations
• Strong understanding of technical production; AV, lighting, sound and rigging
• Ability to develop and implement policies and procedures
• Strong team management and HR skills
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Xero, GSuite/OneDrive, venue management software and project management software
• Ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities

Apply here on Seek