Head of Wardrobe

West Australian Ballet – Head of Wardrobe

Permanent Full Time Position

A rare and exciting opportunity to lead the West Australian Ballet’s Wardrobe Department into the future.

About the Company

West Australian Ballet (WAB) is the state’s flagship ballet company, performing a dynamic and extensive series of classical and contemporary ballet works and programs in Perth, regional Australia, and internationally. The Company currently performs five main stage seasons each year, and in house choreographic season, and has an extensive access and activation program to engage the public in our art-form.

About the Role

Reporting to the Technical Director, and working closely with the Technical and Artistic Teams, the Head of Wardrobe is responsible for the management and oversight of our busy Wardrobe Department. With an emphasis on quality and speed to ensure that costumes are completed on time, within budget, and to a high standard, the role is responsible for maintaining a positive work environment in a busy department.

The Head of Wardrobe is responsible for supervision of costume construction and maintenance including, tutus, wigs, and millinery for the annual repertoire. The role is responsible for supervising a busy team including Head Cutters, Head of Wigs, Head of Touring Wardrobe and Costumiers, as well as casual Wardrobe Assistants and Dressers who are employed to suit the demands of our annual repertoire. 

KEY DUTIES

• Liaise with WAB Designers to deliver costumeson time and on budget.
• Manage and oversee work room schedules for the preparation and construction of costumes for new ballets, and alterations of existing costumes for ballets held inrepertoire or hired in. 
• Ensure that any hired costumes are reinstated as per contractual agreements.
• Oversee the day to day running of the Wardrobe Department including, buying and sourcing fabrics, and ordering appropriate levels of stock.
• Ensure compliance with the company's Workplace Health and Safety Policy including, but not limitedto, providing appropriate WH&S induction for all wardrobe employees, undertaking risk assessment for all hazardous activities, and acting on and resolving WH&S issues promptly.
• Hire and supervise casual wardrobe staff.
• Manage the production and performance wardrobe budget in consultation with the Technical Director.
• Manage project deadlines for each production.

SKILLS AND experience

• Candidates must possess relevant tertiary qualification and/or a minimum of five years’ experience in a similar position in a performing arts organisation in a balletor dance costuming department.
• Proven experience working as part of and managing a small team in a fast moving, creative environment, instilling a high-performance and supportive culture.
• Excellent cuttingand making skills.
• Advanced understanding of dance costumesand wardrobe functions.
• Ability to problem solve in a timely and efficient manner.
• Display a keen abilityto multi-task and to thrive in a busy environment.
• Demonstrated ability to develop a Wardrobe budget.
• Proficient with the Microsoft suite of software (Word, Excel & Outlook).
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills.
• Able to work independently.
• Excellent collaborative skills.
• Must possess a current driver’s license

DESIRABLE EXPERIENCE

• A knowledge of the Western Australian performing arts environment.
• Working knowledge of relevant industrial awards and legislation, including the Live Performance Award, Performer's Certified Agreement and relevant WHS legislation and policies.
• Performing arts touring experience.

CULTURE

The West Australian Ballet promotes a culture where:

• Our work is undertaken with honesty, integrity and professionalism. 
• We exercise fairness, courtesy and respect in dealing with colleagues, customers and stakeholders. 
• We operate as a united team and where all positions in the company are respected. 
• We respect differences; and 
• We empower our people to respectfully contribute ideas and views. 

WAB supports a healthy work/life balance that is crucial for overall well-being and productivity. Individuals who thrive at WAB are often those with a passion for creativity, attention to detail, and adaptability. These individuals possess a keen sense of organisation and time management, allowing them to navigate the demands of the industry while still prioritising personal time. They understand the importance of self-care and know when to step back to recharge, ensuring they bring their best selves to their work. Moreover, they find fulfillment in the collaborative nature of our industry, thriving in environments where teamwork and communication are valued.  

BENEFITS

• Five weeks of annual leave.
• Two complimentary tickets, and access to up to 20 discounted tickets, for each season.
• 50% off Adult Ballet Class fees for staff.
• Access to Arts Industry discounts.
• Working with creative teams from Western Australian, Australia and internationally.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply for this role, please submit a cover letter addressing the essential selection criteria above and your CV via email to ***********@waballet.com.au with HEAD OF WARDROBE in the subject line.

Applications close 5pm Friday 17 May 2024. We may close applications earlier if sufficient quality applications are received.

Applicants require the right to work in Australia. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

A copy of the position description can be downloaded via our website at: https://waballet.com.au/careers.