Music Events Manager
Rockquest Promotions | Auckland | Full-time
Bring your event management experience to the next chapter of New Zealand music.
Smokefreerockquest, Smokefree Tangata Beats, and Rockshop Bandquest are nationally recognised programmes that give young musicians opportunities to perform, build confidence and develop their craft.
Smokefreerockquest has been part of Aotearoa’s music story since 1988. Its history spans generations of young performers, teachers and music professionals. Now there’s an opportunity to contribute to what comes next.
This newly created role offers a rare combination of established programmes, national event delivery and work that makes a difference to young people. We’re looking for an experienced events professional who can bring people and plans together, manage the practical details and help deliver memorable music experiences.
About the role
Reporting to the Head of Operations, you’ll manage the planning, delivery and ongoing development of our three music programmes, from the regional event season through to national finals.
You’ll work closely with the Head of Operations to agree priorities, schedules and programme budgets, then manage delivery within RQP’s established systems and supplier arrangements. The Head of Operations oversees resources and operational planning across RQP; your focus is the quality, delivery and participant experience of the music programmes.
You’ll manage the Music Programme Coordinator, guide contracted event teams and build trusted relationships with schools, judges, mentors and the music community.
There’s scope to bring ideas, improve how the programmes work and develop opportunities for young musicians.
What you’ll do
Plan and manage regional events and national finals within the agreed organisational calendar.
Lead and support the Music Programme Coordinator, and select, brief and guide contracted event teams.
Help develop programme budgets, manage delivery within approved budgets and keep costs and emerging risks visible.
Confirm programme-specific venue and production requirements, brief suppliers and manage day-to-day event relationships.
Work with schools, teachers, judges, mentors and participants to deliver a positive, professionally run experience.
Review feedback and improve programme formats, judging, mentoring and development opportunities.
Apply RQP’s health and safety processes, making participant wellbeing and inclusion part of every event.
About you
You’re organised, approachable and comfortable taking responsibility. You can keep several events moving at once, communicate clearly with different people and make sound decisions when plans change.
You’ll bring:
Proven experience managing events or programmes with competing deadlines.
Experience supervising staff, contractors or event crews.
Confidence working with budgets, suppliers, schedules and production requirements.
Strong relationship skills and the ability to work constructively with schools and creative professionals.
Good judgment, attention to detail and reliable follow-through.
Cultural awareness and a commitment to working respectfully with Māori and Pacific communities.
Experience in music, festivals, arts, education or youth programmes would be valuable. Knowledge of the New Zealand music or education sector is a strong advantage, alongside demonstrated delivery and people-management skills.
Why join RQP?
You’ll take responsibility for established programmes with national reach, supported by a Head of Operations and the wider RQP team.
Your work will connect you with schools, musicians and creative professionals across the country. You’ll also see its impact on stage: young people sharing original music, finding their confidence and developing their craft.
The practical details
This role is based in Auckland, with regular national travel and evening or weekend work during the event season and national finals.
You’ll need a full New Zealand driver's licence and the legal right to work in New Zealand. Appointment is subject to satisfactory reference checks, Police vetting and youth-safety checks.
Apply
Apply through SEEK with your CV and a brief cover letter. Tell us about an event or programme you’ve managed, what you contributed to its success and why you’d like to work with RQP. (Applications will only be accepted via SEEK)