Board Member - Business Development

Key Responsibilities

The Partnerships & Business Development Committee Member will work closely with other members of the Committee to:

• Lead the development and implementation of Newcastle Fringe Festival’s partnerships and business development strategy, supported by other Committee members
• Identify, cultivate and secure new corporate sponsors, philanthropic partners and strategic community partnerships
• Develop long-term relationships with businesses, foundations and community organisations that support the Festival’s growth
• Identify new revenue opportunities through commercial partnerships, sponsorships and collaborative initiatives
• Work collaboratively with Committee members to develop compelling partnership proposals, presentations and sponsorship packages
• Support the negotiation and delivery of partnership agreements, ensuring partners receive exceptional value and recognition
• Support in-kind partnerships that strengthen festival delivery and reduce operational costs
• Assist in evaluating and reporting partnership outcomes, demonstrating impact and return on investment to partners
• Contribute to the organisation’s strategic planning, financial sustainability and long-term growth.
• Attend Committee meetings well prepared, having read and understood all papers beforehand

Essential Experience

Demonstrated experience in one or more of the following:

• Business development
• Strategic partnerships
• Corporate sponsorship
• Sales and relationship management
• Philanthropy or fundraising
• Marketing or stakeholder engagement

Desirable Experience

• Established professional networks within the Newcastle, Hunter or NSW business community.
• Experience working with not-for-profit organisations, arts organisations or major events.
• Experience developing sponsorship proposals, partnership strategies or commercial agreements.
• Knowledge of corporate social responsibility (CSR), ESG initiatives or philanthropic giving.
• Experience in marketing, communications, public relations or stakeholder engagement.
• Previous governance or committee experience. 

To Apply

Applications should include a resume and, if you wish, a brief statement outlining why you are interested in joining Newcastle Fringe Festival and how your experience could help us build meaningful partnerships and grow our impact. Please submit your application early, as interviews will commence on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Enquiries and applications are welcome via email to [email protected]. Please put ‘APPLICATION FOR PARTNERSHIPS AND BD ROLE’ in the subject line.