Firstdraft Communications and Engagement Manager
We have an empty seat in our office that we’re looking to fill with a bright and capable Communications and Engagement Manager. Yes, we’d love someone who can generate a media release without breaking a sweat, but we’re also looking for a creative who values working autonomously and having agency in their job. This position offers plenty of opportunities to suggest, test and implement original ideas, campaigns and strategies to champion the work of artists and share the story of Firstdraft.
image: Evening Harmony, 2025, Dean Qiulin Li, Zi Qin and Jincheng Deng, Photo by: Jessica Maurer
about us
Firstdraft is where the future of contemporary art emerges, through a program that champions experimentation, risk and inclusion. We’re a not-for-profit contemporary art organisation that specialises in great exhibitions by early-career artists. We’re working with and for diverse communities to deliver meaningful programs, support innovation in contemporary art and promote principles of accessibility and inclusivity within the sector. We care about artists and prioritise curiosity, collaboration, openness and empathy.
As we approach our fortieth anniversary in 2026, we are seeking a highly skilled, self-reliant and creative communications professional to promote our rich history, build a compelling, fit-for-purpose communications strategy and lead a vibrant social media campaign.
why work at Firstdraft
Creative Freedom: This role offers a high level of autonomy, allowing you to manage your own work while shaping and implementing ideas that you are passionate about.
Work with Artists: Be directly involved in the creative process, working with artists to bring their vision to life through strategic communications and promotion.
Impactful Work: Join a not-for-profit arts organisation that is passionate about making a difference in the sector and helping early-career artist voices to thrive.
about the role
Role to commence early 2026
Position Type: Part-Time
Salary Range: $70,000 - $75,000 (pro-rata)
Hours: (0.8 FTE) 4 days p/w (30 hours per week) Wednesday – Saturday, some after-hours and event work expected
Location: Woolloomoolloo, Sydney
Reports to: Director
Key Responsibilities
(see position description for full scope of the role)
Marketing and Communications
Develop and run our marketing and communications strategy
Manage and maintain public communications channels
Track, document and report on impact of communications
Engagement and Community Building
Assist in the development of external relations with community groups and stakeholders
Identify opportunities for audience development to increase and diversify event attendance, repeat visitation and grow audiences
Work alongside our team to plan openings, artist talks, and special events, including live social media coverage and photography
Fundraising and Development Support
Assist in delivering the annual artistic program callout
Assist in the coordination and administration fundraising campaigns
General Responsibilities and Administration
Regularly report on key marketing and development metrics
Assist in the preparation of key strategic communications and compliance documents
Assist at Firstdraft events as reasonably requested by the Director
Selection criteria
This role suits a passionate individual who is enthusiastic, confident and looking to have agency and creative control over their work. Our ideal candidate is connected to the Sydney art scene with a strong desire to see early-career artists thrive. We are looking for someone with bold, creative ideas who works well independently and shares Firstdraft’s values of curiosity, collaboration, openness and empathy.
If you’re interested in a job where scrolling on social media is encouraged and you have a love for the arts, this is your opportunity to thrive.
Must-Haves:
Experience in marketing, communications, or similar roles
Experience working with video, social media and web-based communication tools
Ability to develop and implement a marketing strategy
Exceptional interpersonal skills. Relationship building and respectful community engagement are central to this role
Strong English language skills
Excellent writing and editing skills. We are looking for someone who knows how to tell a compelling story and has a keen eye for details.
Adobe Creative Suite skills, particularly InDesign
Confidence with digital tools like Google Workspace, Squarespace, Mailchimp etc.
Familiarity with email marketing, SEO, and basic analytics
A strong ability to work independently, juggle multiple projects, and take initiative.
Naturally creative, driven and engaged with your surroundings
Commitment to a safe, inclusive and empathetic work environment and ability to collaborate effectively with all members of the organisation and external stakeholders
Nice-to-Haves:
Ability to create images, GIFs, animations and infographics
Experience in the non-profit sector or arts organisations
Fundraising experience
how to apply
To apply, please submit the following to manager@firstdraft.org.au:
A CV (max 2 pages)
A separate cover letter telling us about yourself and your suitability for the role
An optional portfolio highlighting examples of your content creation and production skills