Established in 1957 and incorporated into Griffith University in 1991, the Queensland Conservatorium (QCM) is one of Australia’s premiere music institutions. From its state-of-the-art South Bank campus, it offers a comprehensive suite of programs spanning classical performance, jazz, popular music, composition, music technology, acting and musical theatre. The Conservatorium is distinguished by its internationally recognised faculty, rigorous training, and strong industry engagement. Its graduates hold prominent positions across the global music industry, performing with major orchestras, opera companies, and commercial productions, underscoring its reputation as broadly respected international centre for professional music education and artistic excellence.
About the Role
Presently, Griffith University is seeking to appoint a new Director of the Queensland Conservatorium. A senior academic leadership role, responsible for shaping and advancing the Conservatorium’s strategic, artistic, and academic direction, this is an exciting opportunity for a capable arts professional. The role is vital to ensuring excellence across learning and teaching, research, and engagement, while aligning staff and financial resources with the University’s broader strategic objectives. The Director will cultivate a vibrant, innovative environment for the education and training of music professionals and performing artists, while fostering meaningful collaborations with industry, government, and the wider community.
Eligible professionals will hold a doctoral qualification or possess equivalent accreditation and standing, alongside a strong track record of academic, artistic, and organisational leadership. Demonstrated capability in building high-performing teams, managing budgets and resources effectively, and leading strategic academic and research initiatives is essential. The role requires a professional who can lead a diverse and dynamic academic unit, promote quality assurance in learning and teaching, and deliver a high-quality student experience, including pastoral support and research training.
In collaboration with senior deputies, the Director will also lead QCM’s external engagement, strengthen industry and community partnerships, and serve as its representative to professional and cultural bodies. The successful candidate will exemplify Griffith’s values, demonstrating integrity, fairness and professionalism, and championing the University’s commitment to innovation, resilience, and creativity. This is a rare and unique opportunity to shape the future of one of Australia’s most prestigious music institutions and contribute to a rich, collaborative artistic culture, both locally and internationally. If this sounds like your next career move, we’d love to hear from you.
Further Information
Perrett Laver will conduct an executive search process in parallel with the public advertisement of the role. For further information and to apply, please submit a CV and covering letter, detailing how you fulfil the role description and personal specification to Perrett Laver quoting reference 7929.
Candidate brochure can be found here: https://www.griffith.edu.au/jobs/search-jobs/director-queensland-conservatorium
For any initial enquiries or to email your application please contact Claudia Roth on Claudia.Roth@perrettlaver.com
The deadline for applications is 9am AEST Monday 28th July.
If you require any reasonable adjustments to assist you in the selection process, please advise us of these so that we can make appropriate arrangements.
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