Brooke Olsen
Leura,Australia
Summary
Enthusiastic, dedicated, and results-driven arts professional specializing in public programming, performance venues, events, marketing, and strategic communications. Proven track record in researching, developing, and managing engaging programs and events for arts organizations. Currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Curating and Cultural Leadership at UNSW. Actively seeking opportunities to innovate and deliver impactful exhibitions, public programs, and community-engaged events within the Greater Western Sydney region.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Publisher’s Assistant
Brandl & Schlesinger
08.2024 - Current
- Promoted multiple book titles to agents, film producers, and distributors.
- Developed information and marketing resources to promote books across multiple territories.
- Streamlined administrative processes.
Membership Coordinator
BANC - Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre
01.2023 - 01.2024
- Developed strategic marketing and engagement initiatives to increase outreach to 300+ members.
- Crafted effective communication and strategic engagement plans to engage specialist groups including seniors, NDIS participants, carers, and local families.
- Created effective newsletters, marketing assets, and collateral tailored to a diverse membership base to re-engage members and stakeholders.
- Conducted community research and needs analysis reports for distinctive neighbourhood projects and programs.
Venue Manager
The Red Rattler Theatre
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Coordinated community outreach through public arts and educational programs and developed marketing engagement strategies
- Developed strategies, policies, and systems to support organisational objectives, including initiatives for the First Nations and LGBTQIA+ Artist Committees, board, and membership base
- Managed all aspects of venue operations, compliance, and stakeholder relationships
- Led a small team of creatives, providing project support and professional development
- Oversaw a major venue renovation, including extensive repairs and a revitalisation project
- Managed financial operations and grant funding, handling a budget of $750k
Assistant Director & Co-Founder
The Great Club
01.2020 - 12.2020
- Planned and project managed the pre-opening fit-out and launch event
- Developed workplace culture and policies for junior staff
- Coordinated successful marketing campaigns and venue events
- Curated bookings, events and community outreach
Marketing & Bar Manager
The Newsagency
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Developed and executed marketing strategies, revamped digital marketing, and managed visual branding
- Planned and project managed venue renovation, setup, and launch events
- Cultivated workplace culture and policies for junior staff
- Produced post-event reports for artists and the venue
Producer / Presenter
FBi Radio
01.2012 - 01.2019
- Produced multi-award-winning experimental music radio program and live music/art series
- Curated and presented content focusing on experimental music and sound art
- Engaged with a diverse community of artists and musicians
Music Distribution Manager
Amrap - The Australian Music Radio Airplay Project
01.2008 - 01.2018
- Developed strategic projects to promote Australian musicians on community radio
- Managed distribution staff, internship program, marketing, and communication strategies
- Coordinated initiatives supporting CALD, LGBTQIA+, and First Nations music
- Organised community radio activities at major music conferences
Education
Master of Arts - Curating and Cultural Leadership
University of New South Wales (UNSW)
01.2026
Certificate IV - Arts & Cultural Administration
TAFE
01.2023
Governance Foundations for Not-for-Profit Directors -
Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) & Australia Council
01.2022
Certificate III - Design Fundamentals
TAFE
01.2016
Microsoft Excel Essentials -
Odyssey Training
01.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Communications (Media Arts Production)
University of Technology
01.2008
Certificate IV - Performance and Production (Acting)
Australian College of Theatre and Television
01.2003
Skills
- Communication & Community Engagement
- Knowledge of Visual Arts & Contemporary Practice
- Events Management
- Arts Administration
- Marketing & Digital Strategy
- Effective Team Leadership
- Project Coordination
- Financial Management
- Technical Skills
Curatorial & Programming
- Gallery Support (Volunteer) - Landslide ARI, Wentworth Falls
- Gallery Attendant (Volunteer) - Braemar Gallery, Springwood
- Assistant Producer - MMNIC (formerly Dream Alley Dream), Blue Mountains
- Curator & Producer - Ears Have Ears live & radio
- Co-Curator - The NOW now Festival, Sydney
- Director - Sound Summit multi-arts festival, Newcastle
- Co-Curator - International Noise Fest, Sydney
- Co-Director/Founder - Dirty Shirlows gallery and venue, Sydney
Other Experience
- Stage Manager and Event Assistant – Art Gallery of NSW, Blue Mountains Writers Festival & Yabun Festival
- Freelance Creative Producer and Grant Writer
- Radio Panel Trainer & Course Coordinator – 2rrr FM Radio Training Course, Gladesville
Awards
- 2011, SMAC Award Winner – Best Collective for Dirty Shirlows
- 2012, SMAC Award Nomination – Best Music Event for Sound Summit
- 2012, CBAA Award Winner – Best New Radio Program for FBi Radio
- 2013, CBAA Award Winner – Excellence in Music Programming for FBi Radio
- 2017, The Industry Observer Award Winner – Community Radio Host of the Year
Certification
- RSA, Venue Licensee & Advanced Licensee
- Working With Children Check
- Driver's License
References
- Katie Bell, Chairperson (Director), The Red Rattler Theatre, 0415 687 965
- Teresa Avila, Co-Founder, The Red Rattler Theatre, 0410 410 185
- Monica Brooks, Personal Reference, Blue Mountains Sound Artist, 0449 702 785
- Chris Johnson, Manager Amrap & OntoIt Media, 0428 230 017
Timeline
Publisher’s Assistant
Brandl & Schlesinger
08.2024 - Current
Membership Coordinator
BANC - Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre
01.2023 - 01.2024
Venue Manager
The Red Rattler Theatre
01.2021 - 01.2023
Assistant Director & Co-Founder
The Great Club
01.2020 - 12.2020
Marketing & Bar Manager
The Newsagency
01.2018 - 01.2020
Producer / Presenter
FBi Radio
01.2012 - 01.2019
Music Distribution Manager
Amrap - The Australian Music Radio Airplay Project
01.2008 - 01.2018
Certificate IV - Arts & Cultural Administration
TAFE
Governance Foundations for Not-for-Profit Directors -
Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) & Australia Council
Certificate III - Design Fundamentals
TAFE
Microsoft Excel Essentials -
Odyssey Training
Bachelor of Arts - Communications (Media Arts Production)
University of Technology
Certificate IV - Performance and Production (Acting)
Australian College of Theatre and Television
Master of Arts - Curating and Cultural Leadership
University of New South Wales (UNSW)
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