Join Improv Aotearoa as a Trustee

Are you passionate about the arts, highly organised, and ready to make a difference? Due to an upcoming vacancy, Improv Aotearoa is seeking expressions of interest for up to two new trustees to join our board for a three year term. 

The Trust manages the NZ Improv Festival - one of the largest and most sought-after Improv festivals in the Pacific. Celebrated for its inclusivity, innovation, and ability to bring out the best in everyone, the festival draws performers and participants from around the globe each year.

About the role:

  • 3 year term, with the opportunity to stay on for a second 3 year term

  • Institute of Directors Governance training provided

  • Attend and participate in 10 board meetings per year (online attendance possible)

  • Participate in an in-person meeting during NZ Improv Festival

  • Support fundraising activities and grant applications for NZ Improv Festival and other Improv Aotearoa activities

  • Contribute to the governance and strategic direction of the Trust

  • Support the delivery of the NZ Improv Festival and other initiatives

A small financial koha is provided in recognition of your time and mahi, as well as non-profit governance training. 

Ideal Applicant

We’re looking for people who share our commitment to the arts and want to help support and grow this vibrant and dynamic community.

In particular, we seek applications from individuals with strengths in fundraising, grant writing, commercial partnerships, sponsorship and Te Tiriti o Waitangi in the arts. Previous governance experience is preferred but not essential. Experience or interest in theatrical improvisation is a bonus. Enthusiasm, reliability, and a collaborative spirit are key.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive board and especially encourage expressions of interest from Tāngata Whenua, Pacific people, younger members of the community, individuals with a disability, and the LGBTQI+ community.

If you're keen to be part of a creative, collaborative, and forward-thinking team shaping the future of improv in Aotearoa, we’d love to hear from you.

How to apply

To express your interest, please send us a brief introduction (this can be written or in a medium of your choosing) and a CV before Sunday 8 November 2026 to our board secretary tara@improvfest.nz. If you have questions please reach out to any of our current board members - board@improvfest.nz.

Interested in our work outside of governance?

We welcome volunteers who would like to support Improv Aotearoa’s initiatives - please email jen@improvfest.nz to find out how you can help.

Jennifer O'Sullivan

Jennifer O'Sullivan is an improvisor, director and creative producer in Te-Whanganui-a-Tara. With an MFA in Creative Practice from Victoria University, she is the co-founder and director of Locomotive, the creative lead for Kickin’ Rad Productions, and is the former director of the New Zealand Improv Festival 2012-2021. The last few decades have seen her performing, producing and teaching in Wellington and around NZ and Australia, while advocating for and supporting women, improv, and creative safety throughout the performance industry. In 2016 she created Late Night Knife Fight at BATS Theatre to encourage innovation and experimentation in improv forms, and to have a good time. When she's not working on cool improv and theatre projects, she's hanging out with her pets and her kids and making sure no one eats too much grass.

http://jenniferosullivan.com
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