Join a lively organisation of passionate people creating one of the world’s best LGBTQIA+ festivals.
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras was built on the foundations laid by early community activists who fought for LGBTQIA+ rights. We are a not-for-profit member-based organisation that produces the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade and year-round initiatives that celebrate our LGBTQIA+ identity, creative expression, and elevate diverse voices.
We proudly provide a platform for the voices of the LGBTQIA+SB community, and our staff support this mission.
We want to particularly support applications from First Nations community members, Trans and Gender Diverse folks, People of Colour, people with disability and other members of our LGBTQIA+SB communities that may require reasonable adjustment.
We work closely with community partners to share recruitment opportunities across the diversity of our communities. If you have additional needs while applying for these roles, please get in touch at hr@mardigrasarts.org.au
WORK WITH US
2026 Director EOI Nomination Form
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (SGLMG) is inviting Expressions of Interest from Members interested in joining the Board as an appointed Director.
Pursuant to Division III of the SGLMG Constitution, the successful applicant will serve until the 2027 Annual General Meeting.
This is an opportunity to contribute to the governance, strategic direction and long-term sustainability of one of Australia’s most significant LGBTQIA+SB community and cultural organisations.
SGLMG is a not-for-profit arts organisation with a vision to be a global leader in advancing diversity, inclusion, equity and social justice through culture, creativity and partnerships.
Directors play an important role in ensuring the organisation remains accountable to its members, connected to its communities and positioned for a strong and sustainable future.
The Board welcomes applications from Members with a broad range of professional, community and lived experience. We particularly encourage applications from trans and gender diverse people, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people with disability.
The Board is especially interested in hearing from applicants with experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Gender and sexuality diverse community organisations;
- Major events, festivals or arts and cultural organisations;
- Registered charities, including organisations with deductible gift recipient status.
Applicants should submit:
- a completed Director EOI Nomination Form;
- a curriculum vitae of no more than three pages; and,
- a cover letter of no more than two pages outlining their interest in the role and how their professional, community and personal experience would contribute to the SGLMG Board.
Further information about serving as a Director of Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras can be viewed here: So, You Want To Be A Director – For aspiring directors and for those voting for directors
For full details, including the application process and how to apply, please view here: EOI Document – Board Vacancy
Expressions of Interest should include completed 2026 Director EOI Nomination Form, a CV (max 3 pages) and a cover letter (max 2 pages) outlining professional and personal experience across the aforementioned skill sets and how it will transfer to the board position with SGLMG.
All documents must be sent via email to company.secretary@mardigrasarts.org.au by 5pm, Tuesday 4 August 2026.
The Opportunity
We’re looking for an experienced Workforce & Operations Manager to lead the recruitment, training and deployment of the volunteer workforce that powers Mardi Gras — more than 2,000 volunteers each year — while also driving the operational planning that keeps our events, festivals and programs running smoothly.
This is a varied, fast-paced role at the heart of our Operations Department, suited to someone who thrives on juggling logistics, people and priorities in equal measure. You’ll lead volunteer recruitment, onboarding, training and rostering, while also coordinating supplier and procurement processes, warehouse operations and on-ground event delivery across Parade, Fair Day, Party and beyond.
Beyond the day-to-day, you’ll drive continuous improvement of our workforce systems and processes, support medical services planning, and lead a small team dedicated to making sure every volunteer has what they need to deliver an unforgettable event. It’s an ideal role for someone who is highly organised, people-focused, and energised by the scale and complexity of major event delivery.
About the role
Reporting directly to the Head of Operations, you’ll lead our volunteer workforce program end-to-end and provide operational support across logistics, supplier management, procurement, warehouse operations and medical services.
You’ll manage a Workforce & Operations Coordinator, seasonal workforce staff and event-based Volunteer Team Leaders, and work closely with Festival & Events, Partnerships, Marketing, Membership and Medical teams to make sure workforce needs are embedded in everything we plan.
Key responsibilities
· Leading the recruitment, onboarding, training, deployment and recognition of 2,000+ volunteers annually
· Developing and delivering workforce plans across Parade, Fair Day, Party and other events and programs
· Coordinating workforce logistics, including accreditation, uniforms, radios, catering and volunteer resourcing
· Managing Volunteer Local and associated workforce systems, including reporting, compliance and record-keeping
· Supporting supplier management, procurement and contractor coordination across festival and organisational activities
· Providing on-ground leadership during bump-in, event delivery and bump-out
· Leading continuous improvement projects, post-event debriefs and workforce-related initiatives throughout the year
As SGLMG runs events throughout the year, this role occasionally requires work outside standard hours, including evenings and weekends.
About you
You’re a highly organised, people-focused operations leader with a strong track record of managing large-scale volunteer or workforce programs.
You’ll bring:
· 5+ years’ experience in volunteer management, workforce management, event operations or a related field
· Demonstrated experience managing large-scale volunteer programs or major event workforce operations
· Experience leading staff, volunteers or project teams, with a calm and solutions-focused approach under pressure
· Experience working with budgets, procurement processes and supplier management
· Confidence using volunteer management, rostering or workforce systems, and the ability to quickly learn new ones
· Strong administrative, organisational and stakeholder engagement skills
Experience within festivals, events, arts or not-for-profit organisations, and managing volunteer programs of 1,000+ people, will be highly regarded but are not essential.
Why join us?
· A genuinely inclusive, values-led workplace where you can bring your whole self to work.
· A gender-affirming workplace policy.
· Additional paid time off between Christmas and New Year.
· Access to cultural and community leave, including for significant community and cultural events.
· Ongoing training and professional development, including in cultural safety and inclusive practice.
· The chance to do work that genuinely matters to our communities.
Inclusion and Diversity
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is committed to being an inclusive and equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and are dedicated to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and able to bring their authentic selves to work.
We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, and people of all sexualities and gender identities.
We believe that a diverse workforce strengthens our organisation, our work and our impact, and we are committed to a culture grounded in equity, inclusion and belonging.
We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process, including alternative formats, extra time or a support person to make sure it is accessible to you. Just let us know what you need when you apply.
Applicants are welcome to use their chosen name and pronouns throughout the recruitment process, regardless of what appears on formal identification documents.
Ready to Apply?
The Opportunity
We’re looking for an experienced Executive Assistant to provide high-level administrative and secretarial support to our CEO, Senior Executive team, and associated Board sub-committees — playing a pivotal role in keeping our organisation running smoothly as we deliver events and impact all year round.
This is a varied and fast-paced role at the heart of our organisation, suited to someone who thrives on juggling competing priorities and anticipating needs before they arise. You’ll manage complex diaries, coordinate Board and sub-committee meetings (including agendas, papers, and minutes), and act as a trusted point of contact between the CEO and internal and external stakeholders.
Beyond the day-to-day, you’ll help ensure good governance and smooth decision-making across the organisation — supporting everything from correspondence and reporting to logistics for key meetings and events. It’s an ideal role for someone who is highly organised, discreet, and comfortable operating with a high degree of autonomy in a values-driven, community-focused environment.
About the Role
Reporting directly to the CEO, you’ll be the trusted right hand to our Executive team, managing everything from diary and inbox coordination to Board governance support.
This is a varied, fast-paced role suited to someone who thrives on solving problems, juggling competing priorities, and building strong relationships across a busy, purpose-driven organisation.
Key Responsibilities
· Providing comprehensive administrative and secretarial support to the CEO and Senior Executive team, including diary management, inbox triage, correspondence and travel coordination
· Preparing agendas, minutes, board papers and briefings for Board sub-committees, and maintaining governance records and compliance documentation
· Managing expense reconciliation, meeting logistics and confidential files in line with privacy and governance requirements
· Supporting the onboarding of new Board members and senior staff
· Assisting with membership enquiries and database management
· Leading small projects and identifying opportunities to improve office systems and processes
· Covering reception and providing overflow support to the Office of the CEO as needed
As SGLMG runs events throughout the year, this role occasionally requires work outside standard hours, including evenings and weekends.
About You
You’re a highly organised, discreet and adaptable EA with a strong track record of supporting senior executives.
· 3–5+ years’ experience in a similar Executive Assistant role, ideally including Board or Committee support
· Excellent judgement, with the confidence to prioritise, problem-solve and make decisions independently
· Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a polished, professional approach
· Advanced Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook)
· The ability to maintain the highest level of confidentiality and integrity
· A collaborative mindset and the resilience to manage multiple, competing priorities under pressure
Experience in the not-for-profit or community sector, and familiarity with membership platforms, will be highly regarded but are not essential.
Why join us?
· A genuinely inclusive, values-led workplace where you can bring your whole self to work.
· A gender-affirming workplace policy.
· Additional paid time off between Christmas and New Year.
· Access to cultural and community leave, including for significant community and cultural events.
· Ongoing training and professional development, including in cultural safety and inclusive practice.
· The chance to do work that genuinely matters to our communities.
Inclusion and Diversity
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is committed to being an inclusive and equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and are dedicated to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and able to bring their authentic selves to work.
We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, and people of all sexualities and gender identities.
We believe that a diverse workforce strengthens our organisation, our work and our impact, and we are committed to a culture grounded in equity, inclusion and belonging.
We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process, including alternative formats, extra time or a support person to make sure it is accessible to you. Just let us know what you need when you apply.
Applicants are welcome to use their chosen name and pronouns throughout the recruitment process, regardless of what appears on formal identification documents.
Ready to Apply?
The Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced Associate Parade Producer to support the planning, production and delivery of the iconic Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade, while contributing to Festival events throughout the year.
Reporting to the Parade Producer, you will work collaboratively across the Festival & Events team and the wider organisation to manage creative, operational, technical, administrative and financial elements of this large-scale public event.
You will coordinate detailed project plans, stakeholders, suppliers, participants, permits, safety documentation, crowd and traffic operations, volunteers, partners and broadcast requirements.
This opportunity suits a practical and collaborative event professional who thrives in complex, fast-paced environments and is committed to delivering safe, inclusive and world-class experiences for LGBTQIA+SB communities, the wider community, visitors and spectators.
Key Responsibilities
· Support the end-to-end planning and delivery of the Parade and assigned Festival events, managing milestones, deliverables, timelines and expenditure under the guidance of the Parade Producer.
· Implement approved creative and operational plans, including technical production, programming, event manuals, supplier and contractor coordination, and on-site delivery.
· Develop and manage project plans for crowd management, road closures, traffic and transport management, permits, licences and event compliance for large-scale outdoor events.
· Coordinate the Parade participant application process and maintain positive relationships with LGBTQIA+SB communities and organisations, government agencies, councils, venues, partners, artists, talent and service providers.
· Assist with procurement, requests for quotation, tenders, contract negotiations and engagement contracts in line with organisational legal and procurement requirements.
· Support budget development, expenditure monitoring, financial reporting, revenue opportunities and the timely escalation of budget pressures or compliance issues.
· Work with the Workforce Operations Manager to support volunteer and casual workforce planning, inductions, supervision and event requirements.
· Contribute to work health and safety and risk management plans, incident reporting, compliance activities and the ongoing improvement of event policies and procedures.
· Collaborate with internal teams, partners and broadcast providers to maximise commercial opportunities, meet partner obligations and support successful live and delayed broadcasts where applicable.
· Prepare accurate event documentation and contribute to comprehensive post-event reporting, evaluation and recommendations for continuous improvement.
About You
· At least three years’ experience as an Associate Producer or Event Manager delivering large-scale public events.
· Demonstrated project management capability, including managing competing priorities, detailed timelines and relevant ERP or project management tools.
· Strong experience across large-scale event production, including technical delivery, interpreting technical drawings, producing event manuals, developing risk documentation and managing crews and staff.
· Practical experience with road closures, traffic and transport management, and crowd management for outdoor events.
· Sound knowledge of work health and safety requirements, including the WHS Act and relevant legislation.
· Previous experience working with LGBTQIA+SB and/or First Nations communities, with a demonstrated ability to work respectfully and effectively in diverse teams.
· Strong stakeholder management, negotiation and conflict-resolution skills, including experience working with government stakeholders, high-profile individuals, artists or talent.
· Proven contract and budget management experience, including accurate forecasting, revenue modelling and financial reporting.
· Confident written and verbal communication, presentation and public speaking skills, together with sound judgement and the ability to work autonomously.
· Advanced Microsoft Office skills across Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
· Highly regarded: a relevant tertiary qualification in event management or a related field; formal work health and safety training; experience delivering events attended by 200,000 people or more; broadcast experience; and intermediate Vectorworks skills.
Why join us?
· A genuinely inclusive, values-led workplace where you can bring your whole self to work.
· A gender-affirming workplace policy.
· Additional paid time off between Christmas and New Year.
· Access to cultural and community leave, including for significant community and cultural events.
· Ongoing training and professional development, including in cultural safety and inclusive practice.
· The chance to do work that genuinely matters to our communities.
Inclusion and Diversity
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is committed to being an inclusive and equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and are dedicated to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and able to bring their authentic selves to work.
We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, and people of all sexualities and gender identities.
We believe that a diverse workforce strengthens our organisation, our work and our impact, and we are committed to a culture grounded in equity, inclusion and belonging.
We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process, including alternative formats, extra time or a support person to make sure it is accessible to you. Just let us know what you need when you apply.
Applicants are welcome to use their chosen name and pronouns throughout the recruitment process, regardless of what appears on formal identification documents.
Ready to Apply?