Chief Executive Officer

Independent Cinemas Australia

Australia

On-site

AUD 60,000 - 120,000

Part time

14 days+

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Job summary

An organisation representing independent cinemas is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to lead operations and advocate for member interests. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, financial acumen, and a passion for cinema. This role offers autonomy and flexibility while championing the future of independent cinemas in Australia. Expressions of Interest close on 10th November 2025.

Qualifications

Demonstrated leadership experience required.
Strong budgeting and reporting skills needed.
Excellent media engagement skills expected.
Strategic thinking and the ability to translate plans into achievable actions.
Integrity, reliability and sound judgment.
A genuine enthusiasm for cinema and the arts sector.

Responsibilities

Lead ICA’s operations and represent member interests.
Develop and implement ICA’s business plan.
Manage financial resources and ensure compliance.
Oversee day-to-day administration.
Organise ICA’s annual conference.
Responding promptly and effectively to member and external enquiries.
Organising, preparing reports and attending all Board and relevant committee meetings.
Supporting the growth of ICA membership and the development of programmes and services that deliver tangible member value.
Leading ICA’s advocacy, media and government relation activities.

Skills

Leadership and organisational management experience

Strong business and financial acumen

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Strategic thinking

Integrity and sound judgment

Enthusiasm for cinema and arts sector

Job description

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Chief Executive Officer

Independent Cinemas Australia – October 2025

Background

Independent Cinemas Australia (ICA) is the peak body representing independent cinemas across Australia and New Zealand. ICA is dedicated to the sustainability, diversity, and cultural significance of independently owned cinemas across Australia. We advocate for fair access to content, support the growth of local and international film, and provide a united voice for our members. Through collaboration, innovation, and leadership, we aim to ensure that independent cinemas remain a vibrant and essential part of Australia's screen landscape, and to be the go‑to resource for independent cinemas, providing value and support to a growing network of members.

We’re looking for a hands‑on, strategic leader who wants to make a real impact in a member‑focused organisation. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys both shaping direction and rolling up their sleeves — combining advocacy, industry partnerships, and practical member support.

The CEO will lead ICA’s operations and represent the interests of member cinemas to government, distributors and industry stakeholders, advocating for the ongoing commercial success of the independent cinema sector.

This is a unique opportunity to champion the future of independent cinema — with genuine autonomy, purpose and flexibility.

Expressions of Interest Deadline

Expressions of Interest are to be submitted by Monday 10th November 2025.

CEO Responsibilities

Maintaining effective communication with the President, Board, members and key stakeholders.
Working with the Board’s strategic direction, develop & implement ICA’s business plan and priorities for the short, medium and long‑term.
Managing ICA’s financial resources in consultation with the Treasurer and ensuring ongoing compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
Overseeing the day‑to‑day administration of ICA’s activities, including supervision of staff and contractors.
Organisation and oversight of ICA’s annual conference.
Responding promptly and effectively to member and external enquiries.
Organising, preparing reports and attending all Board and relevant committee meetings.
Supporting the growth of ICA membership and the development of programmes and services that deliver tangible member value.
Leading ICA’s advocacy, media and government relation activities.
Representing members in discussions and negotiations with Film Distributors, including through the Film Exhibition and Distribution Voluntary Code Administration Committee (FEDCAC).
Oversee and drive group buying activities and other collaborative commercial initiatives to benefit members.
Performing other duties as directed by the ICA President and Board from time to time.

Skills and Qualities

Demonstrated leadership and organisational management experience.
Strong business and financial acumen, including budgeting and reporting.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with confidence in engaging media, members and stakeholders.
Strategic thinking and the ability to translate plans into achievable actions.
Integrity, reliability and sound judgment.
A genuine enthusiasm for cinema and the arts sector.

Highly desirable

Well‑developed government and media networks.
Capability to assist members with marketing and social media marketing, including initiatives that support local audience growth and member promotions.

Industry Experience

Experience within the cinema industry will be viewed favourably but is not a prerequisite.

Independence

Independence from direct industry involvement is an important consideration for this role.

Board Assessment

The Board will assess candidates primarily on leadership, governance and strategic management capability.

The Contract

The role is estimated to require twenty‑five hours per week, with flexibility to vary in consultation with the Board depending on workload.
The contract will be for an initial term of two years, renewable by mutual agreement. Either party may terminate the contract with two months notice.
Remuneration will be negotiated based on skills and experience. Applicants should include an indicative proposed rate or fee structure in their Expression of Interest, assuming a four‑day per week commitment.

Expressions of Interest

Your Expression of Interest should include:

The name and contact details of the individual or proposed contracting entity.
A summary of the candidate’s background, skills and relevant experience.
A short vision statement outlining where you see ICA heading and how you would lead its business.
Proposed costs or fee structure for the provision of CEO services.

Enquiries prior to the closing date may be directed to the President by email at president@independentcinemas.com.au.

Short‑listed candidates will be contacted to arrange an interview to discuss the contract.

Key Dates