Manager Creative Industries

• Shape Auckland’s Creative Future
• Lead Innovation and Industry Partnerships
• Champion Māori, Pacific, and Global Creativity

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

We’re looking for a visionary leader to drive Auckland’s creative economy forward. As Manager, Creative Industries, you’ll lead the design and delivery of programmes that strengthen Tāmaki Makaurau’s position as an international hub for creativity, innovation, and cultural expression. Auckland’s creative economy is a vital source of skilled jobs, thriving businesses, and exports that contribute to the prosperity of our region and Aotearoa New Zealand. In this leadership role, you’ll guide key initiatives that connect industry, iwi, and government partners—boosting innovation, attracting investment, and creating sustainable opportunities for our people and creative enterprises. You’ll also oversee the next stage of Te Puna Creative Hub in Henderson, shaping it into a vibrant centre for collaboration, talent, and global engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Set the strategic direction for Auckland’s creative industries and align programme delivery with regional and enterprise goals.
• Build strong relationships with iwi, industry leaders, government, and international partners to grow investment and creative opportunities.
• Lead the creative industries team delivering Te Puna Creative Hub as a place for innovation, upskilling, and commercial collaboration.
• Oversee programme development that drives creative sector growth, export capability, and global recognition for Auckland.
• Champion governance, risk management, and compliance to ensure the sustainability and success of creative industry initiatives.

So if you’re an innovative leader with a passion for creativity and collaboration, this is your chance to shape Auckland’s creative future and lead the next chapter of Te Puna Creative Hub.

Click this link to access the Position Description

He kōrero mōu: About you

We’re looking for an inspiring and strategic leader who understands the creative heartbeat of Tāmaki Makaurau. You’ll bring proven experience designing and delivering impactful programmes that grow jobs, exports, and innovation within the creative sector. With strong commercial acumen and a deep understanding of the creative economy, you’ll navigate changing business models and market dynamics with confidence. Relationship-building is at the core of this role — you’ll partner with iwi, government, and industry to shape initiatives grounded in Te Tiriti principles and cultural inclusion. A natural communicator and advocate, you’ll champion Auckland’s creative industries locally and globally, while leading a talented team that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Creative Arts, Business, Economics, Finance, or a related field.
• Eight to ten years’ experience in the creative industries or a comparable sector, with a strong track record of impact.
• At least five years’ leadership experience managing teams, programmes, and budgets within a complex environment.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.
We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of. 

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

If you have questions about this role, email me directly at kennedy.sua@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!

Applications close: Wednesday 19 November 2025

#workingforauckland #opportunity2025

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.