Executive leadership role driving strategic vision
Deliver major sporting, music and exhibition events
Commercial growth and stakeholder management focus

Home to the most sophisticated and versatile event facilities in southern New Zealand, Dunedin Venues (DVML) is a specialist venue management organisation, offering complete event management services, for events of any size. As the central hub for premier events and entertainment in Dunedin, DMVL is responsible for ensuring the successful operation of the world class Forsyth Barr Stadium (for sport, concerts, entertainment and cultural events) and the Dunedin Centre (a multi-purpose entertainment, conference & events hub including the historic Dunedin Town Hall and the Glenroy Auditorium).

As a Council Controlled Trading Organisation owned by Dunedin City Holdings Limited (DCHL) and Dunedin City Council (DCC), DVML has full governance and management responsibility to act as stewards on behalf of the owners in managing these assets, including securing, planning and delivery of events; asset and facility management; and community access.

Reporting to the DVML Board, the Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the business and for the planning and delivery of strategic goals.

The CEO will develop and maintain positive and trusted relationships with key senior-level stakeholders and will be the "public face" of the venues, including regular contact with both local and national media. Additionally, the CEO will lead commercial relationships with key partners such as live music promoters, sports teams, and national sporting bodies. Strategic planning is a crucial aspect of this role, with the CEO expected to develop master plans and oversee significant capital projects.

This role demands an individual with an entrepreneurial spirit; capable of driving strategic direction, fostering key stakeholder relationships, and ensuring operational excellence and financial sustainability within a dynamic environment. A critical component of this role is the tenacity and proven ability to secure and deliver major/international events which significantly enhance the organisation’s reputation, financial performance and visitor economy.

Promoting the organisation’s commitment to excellence, the CEO will lead a dedicated, respected and high-performing team, maintaining the dynamic, nimble, resilient, and quality-focused culture. Managing relationships with key internal stakeholders and suppliers (such as catering, security, ticketing etc...) is vital, as well as prioritising safety and effective risk management.

The ideal candidate will have proven experience as a CEO or senior leader in a related entity or venue/facilities environment, with a successful track record in business and strategy development. Commercial acumen must be a key strength as the CEO will develop strategies to grow revenue through increased utilisation, visitor spend, memberships and sponsorships, and will be well versed with negotiating high-profile commercial contracts.

As a politically astute leader, proven experience managing complex internal and external stakeholder relationships with diplomacy is essential. The CEO will need to navigate the complexities of a publicly owned entity, balancing commercial objectives with community and environmental responsibilities, with a commitment to deliver against the statement of intent. This includes implementing crisis management strategies and key messaging. Fostering community access and engagement with DVML’s venues is crucial, ensuring the organisation serves both economic and social roles within Dunedin City.

This role offers a unique opportunity to lead a premier venue management company towards continued excellence and innovation in event delivery.

The CEO Dunedin Venues Management Ltd search and recruitment process is being managed exclusively by Sportspeople Recruitment - our 283rd CEO search.

In the first instance general enquiries should be directed to Scott Oakhill on +61 408 258 337 or FREECALL NEW ZEALAND 0800 634 388 or +61 2 9555 5000.

Dunedin Venues Management Limited

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