- Lead the philanthropic strategy for one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most ambitious cultural institutions
- Support and engage with our current donors, sponsors and partners, and build the next generation of art supporters
- Shape a legacy of giving that will define our city for decades
- Contractor role - flexible - self-managed
About the role:
This isn't just another fundraising role. It's an opportunity to lead one of Ōtautahi Christchurch's most significant cultural development programmes.
As Head of Development & Engagement, you'll architect the future of philanthropic support for Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū. You'll be responsible for strategic philanthropy, major giving, commercial partnerships and a brand-new legacy giving programme. You'll also lead communications and engagement strategies that inspire current supporters and attract the next generation of arts advocates.
You’ll be responsible for:
- Strategic philanthropy and major giving – Growing the donor base and stewarding relationships with warmth and excellence.
- Commercial partnerships – Securing and managing high-value partnerships that align with the Gallery's vision.
- Events and community engagement – Delivering exceptional donor experiences, from intimate behind-the-scenes tours to signature events like the 2026 Art Gala Dinner and Christchurch Art Gallery patron support for Aotearoa’s presentation at the Venice Biennale.
- Strategic marketing and communications – Leading the Foundation's brand, digital presence and engagement campaigns.
- Legacy giving programme – Developing and launching a comprehensive Gifts in Wills programme.
You'll work closely with the Foundation Board and Gallery Director, supported by a Projects Coordinator, to deliver excellence across every touchpoint.
Why this role? Why now?
Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū sits at the heart of our city's cultural renaissance. Its collections and exhibitions tell the story of Ōtautahi, Te Waipounamu and Aotearoa. The Gallery is a catalyst for creativity, a champion for New Zealand artists and a gathering place for our community.
The Foundation exists to preserve the artistic taonga of yesterday, foster meaningful access to art today and inspire the artistic brilliance of tomorrow. Since 2011, it has successfully fundraised for eight major artworks that have come to define post-quake Christchurch.
Now, the Foundation is entering its most ambitious phase yet. With an endowment fund established through the TOGETHER programme, we've just made our first major acquisition and we're launching a legacy giving programme. We're supporting the Gallery's role as the delivery partner for New Zealand’s 2026 Venice Biennale presentation. And we're building deeper, more diverse relationships across the arts, business and community sectors.
What skills and experience do I need?
These are our must-haves:
- 5+ years' experience in fundraising, development or partnerships with a proven track record of success.
- Be a relationship builder who cultivates long-term partnerships and understand what motivates people to give.
- Hands-on experience organising and delivering dynamic events – from small VIP gatherings to back-of-house tours to large-scale fundraisers.
- Excellent project management skills to develop plans, manage budgets and deliver on time.
- Be an exceptional communicator across all formats.
- Marketing and brand expertise to craft campaigns and engage audiences.
- Be a self-starter who takes initiative and works independently.
These are other skills or experience we'd love you to have:
- Experience launching or managing legacy giving or bequest programmes.
- Background in the arts, culture or not-for-profit sectors.
- Understanding of major donor stewardship, gift agreements and fundraising best practice.
- Familiarity with CRM systems and donor databases.
- Networks within Christchurch's business, philanthropic or arts communities.
What’s the culture like?
The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū Foundation is a small but mighty team of two supported by a passionate and experienced Board. We value creativity, collaboration and genuine care for our mission. We're ambitious, but we also know that great work requires flexibility, trust and a bit of fun along the way.
You'll be part of a wider Gallery whānau that includes curators, educators, communicators and front-of-house staff – all united by a love for art and a commitment to making it accessible to everyone.
Benefits
This is a rare opportunity to work with genuine autonomy and impact. You’ll enjoy flexible, self-managed working arrangements across high and low levels of Foundation/Gallery activity. This role offers something increasingly rare: the chance to work on something that genuinely matters. You'll see the tangible results of your efforts, build relationships with some of Christchurch's most influential and interesting people, and work alongside artists, curators and cultural leaders in one of the city's most iconic spaces. You'll be supported by a collaborative Board, a passionate Gallery Director and a Projects Coordinator who will help you deliver excellence across every initiative.