Chief Operating Officer

FORM Building a State of Creativity Limited (FORM) drives bold, creative transformation in Western Australian communities. We are a not-for-profit, purpose-driven company and we strive to be a leader in developing a vibrant creative economy for the benefit and wellbeing of all Western Australians.

FORM works collaboratively to build a cultural and creative ecology in Western Australia that values artistic excellence, improves arts access for all, and encourages resilient and vibrant communities. Through a process of co-creation, we amplify the voices of Aboriginal people in an expression of their living continuous cultural heritage.

FORM is well-known for delivering significant cultural tourism projects and creative experiences in collaboration with key strategic partners, including the Ngurra Kuju Walyja — One Country One People — The Canning Stock Route Project; Tracks We Share: Contemporary Art of the Pilbara; and Thomas Dambo’s Giants of Mandurah. We also manage FORM Gallery in Perth and Spinifex Hill Studio and Project Space in South Hedland.

About the Opportunity Are you a dynamic, resilient, and strategic leader, with a collaborative approach and a strong commitment to purpose-driven work? FORM is looking for a Chief Operating Officer to drive our next phase of growth and operational transformation, overseeing a range of FORM’s functions, including Finance and Operations, Development, Human Resources, and Creative Development.

Reporting to the CEO, you will execute a range of key business strategies, growth and long-term plans.

Responsibilities

Drive financial planning, asset management, reporting, risk management, and policy development

Lead business improvement and automation initiatives

Support fundraising and donor engagement

Engage clients and other external stakeholders

Board reporting and governance processes

Oversee human resources for internal services functions

Coach and develop high-performing teams

What you’ll need to get you started

Degree in Business Administration, Finance or a related field

At least 5 years’ experience in an executive role within a medium sized organisation

Experience in the not-for-profit sector

Strong skills in negotiation, problem solving, prioritisation, budget management, and supplier relationships.

Expertise in accounting principles, processes and systems, financial internal controls and procedures.

Capabilities in operational leadership, growth mindset, and building a positive team culture.

Experience in organisational growth, process automation and operational efficiency in a creative industries context.

Desirable qualifications and experience

A background in the arts, culture and tourism sector

Experience in interacting with Western Australia’s First-Nations or community contexts, including with respect for cultural protocols

Why FORM?

Opportunities for professional development and growth

Flexible work options

A positive, inclusive work culture that values teamwork and creativity

Purposeful work, making a difference for Western Australia’s diverse communities

Apply now

Read the position description available via Dropbox: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/uqo1vpjwkg6qzl4bg07ot/Chief-Operating-Officer-PD.pdf?rlkey=4b6tkp6gokdacdv8sddoltkxl&st=5ncrlrqh&dl=0

Submit your current resume and a cover letter addressing the key criteria outlined in the position description.

Closing Date 11 January 2026 at 4pm

Queries Email hr@form.net.au or call +61 (08) 9385 2200. Please be patient regarding replies — our office is closed between 16/12/2025 and reopens on 12/01/2026.

Supporting a Diverse Workforce FORM values diversity and is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful work environment. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, or other protected statuses.

We welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and those seeking flexible working arrangements, including part-time opportunities. Diversity includes differences in background, experiences, abilities, and perspectives, and we strive to create an environment where staff feel a sense of belonging, are valued, and able to bring their full selves to work.

FORM acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians throughout Western Australia both past and present, whose enduring connection to this Country and ongoing contributions to our collective culture and communities we respect and honour. We appreciate and are deeply grateful for the privilege of working on these lands.

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