Event Operations Manager

Job Title: Operations Manager - CinefestOZ

Location: South West Region, Australia

Contract Fee – approx. 4 days a week from April to September, 1 day week October and November circa $70,000 pro rata

About CinefestOZ 

CinefestOZ is a not-for-profit organisation, owned by Geographe French Australian Festival Inc (GFAF Inc) and presents festivals and events in Western Australia, using the medium of screen to entertain, inform, inspire and educate. In addition to presenting festivals, CinefestOZ delivers an industry programme and a schools programme. CinefestOZ vision is to be a thriving and sustainable leader in the Australian screen industry by promoting remarkable screen content. In doing so, the organisation will bring together artists, storytellers, and audiences to learn from each other and inspire, educate and support the development of the next generation of storytellers.

Western Australia’s premiere destination CinefestOZ Film Festival, is in its 17th year and is centred in the South West and focused on Australian film. Each year over nine days in August and September, CinefestOZ offers a slate of new feature films, documentaries and shorts, galas and events and a stimulating and very well attended schools program. The Australian and Western Australian film industry, as well as a diverse audience of film lovers, embrace the festival as their own special event. A range of stakeholders and community groups support this event.

In 2021, CinefestOZ expanded to include CinefestOZ Albany, which is held in partnership with the City of Albany and the local community. It is held annually in April with Australian film premieres, IndigifestOZ, Schools and filmmaker Q&A sessions. CinefestOZ Broome (First Nations Film Festival) was first held in November 2022 in partnership with Goolarri Media, a wholly owned and run Indigenous media organisation and has seen continued success in 2023. 

Role Overview

 As the Operations Manager at CinefestOZ, you will play a pivotal role in delivering an exceptional cinematic experience that showcases the beauty and culture of the South West region. From organizing short film nights to orchestrating red carpet premieres, you will be responsible for the seamless execution of diverse film events. 

This role entails overseeing regional event coordinators spanning from Bunbury to Augusta, as well as coordinating with the VIP coordinator. Your primary focus will be on planning, engaging with key venue and AV partners, coordinating catering and accommodation services, and ensuring the successful delivery of the festival from inception to conclusion.

This is a contract position with possible ongoing employment opportunities. CinefestOZ has an office in Busselton with a fixed fortnightly team meeting and Tuesday pivot days. Hybrid working arrangements are welcome however this is a south west based position. 

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage regional event coordinators across multiple locations within the South West region.
• Collaborate with the VIP coordinator to ensure a high-quality experience for distinguished guests.
• Plan and execute all operational aspects of the festival, including venue selection, AV arrangements, catering, and accommodation.
• Liaise with key suppliers and vendors to negotiate contracts and ensure seamless logistics.
• Develop and maintain relationships with stakeholders, including local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations.
• Coordinate staffing requirements, including recruitment, training, and scheduling of volunteers and temporary staff.
• Implement and maintain effective systems for budget management, resource allocation, and risk mitigation.
• Monitor and evaluate event performance, gathering feedback from attendees, sponsors, and partners to inform future improvements.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices, incorporating innovative ideas into event planning and execution.
• Uphold CinefestOZ's mission and values, fostering a positive and inclusive work culture.

Qualifications:

• Proactive attitude with the ability to prioritize and multitask effectively under pressure.
• Strong organizational and logistical skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent leadership abilities, capable of motivating and guiding a diverse team.
• Passion for events and the arts, with a demonstrated commitment to delivering exceptional experiences.
• Previous experience in a festival environment or similar large-scale event management role is highly desirable.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency in relevant software applications, including Microsoft Office suite and event management platforms.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and irregular hours as required during peak event periods.

Join us in celebrating the magic of cinema and the beauty of the South West region as we deliver unforgettable experiences at CinefestOZ. 

Apply now to be part of our dynamic team!

Applications close 12th April AWST 5pm