Situated in an award winning building, the Suter Art Gallery Te Aratoi o Whakatu has a rich history and showcases a nationally significant collection of art. Their fabulous complex includes a theatre, café and shop from which they operate a varied programme of exhibitions, events and education services. A Charitable Trust and a Council Controlled Organisation they provide the people of Nelson and visitors to the region with access to our arts and cultural heritage and to the many forms of contemporary cultural expression.
The Bishop Suter Art Gallery Trust is seeking new trustees, including a Chair, to join their Board due to the retirement of a previous members. These unique Board positions require hands on involvement in the direction and success of the Gallery. As paid positions, the time commitment required includes monthly Board meetings during usual work hours, participation in subcommittees and attendance at fundraising and promotional events.
The position requires governance, financial and commercial capabilities to complement the existing diverse skill set of the current Trust. The Board is particularly interested in candidates who can bring expertise in governance, preferably within Council Controlled Organisations, revenue generation and fundraising, and property and asset management.
Key to success will be proven business management capabilities, strong financial skills and demonstrated ability to optimise performance and deliver tangible results. A key challenge for Trustees, with it being a CCO and Councils facing significant financial challenges, is budgeting within tight funding constraints. Ideally, you will have knowledge and genuine enthusiasm for the arts, strong local networks and skills in fundraising and philanthropy. Alongside proven governance experience and, for the Chair role, previous board leadership experience, you will bring a grounded, collaborative approach and a willingness to work closely with fellow Trustees and stakeholders.
If you have a passion for arts and heritage in the Nelson Tasman region, then this is a unique opportunity to utilise your skills and experience in this field.
Preference will be given to prospective Trustees who are based in or have strong ties to the Nelson Tasman Region.
Applications close Friday 14 August 2026.
For further enquiries please contact Odette Shearer ph: 021 270 8657 or odette.shearer@brannigans.co.nz