Afterwards, I debrief with sponsors, write acquittals and reports. At the heart my job is about relationship building. I work closely with our board and director. Together, we like to think of our supporters as part of our family, many of whom have been with us for years.
I work hard to keep in touch and ensure that each partnership is fresh and meeting the needs of all concerned. I'm also super-excited as for the first time the Tauranga Arts Festival is presenting an event during our off-year. Escape! is a Writers & Readers festival over Queen's Birthday, chatting about food, travel and faraway places.
The most challenging aspect?
Not taking it personally when an application or proposal is declined.
What's your proudest work moment?
Tauranga Arts Festival 2013. Seeing our CBD come alive with thousands of people day and night.
What training/experience have you had to prepare for your role?
I did post-graduate study in arts management at Auckland University's School of Business. I have worked in arts management roles at Artspace, Auckland Art Gallery and Elam School of Fine Arts.
What's the best piece of career advice you've received?
Be brave and just go for it.
What's the most important thing your current role has taught you?
Fundraising is 90 per cent preparation and 10 per cent presentation.
Tell us something about your work wardrobe.
I love fashion and I am a bit spoilt working in the arts in that you don't have to stick to a corporate look. I favour New Zealand designers such as Zambesi, Kate Sylvester, Kathryn Wilson. I like to mix it up with a bit of upcycled vintage, and not forgetting a bright lipstick.
Tauranga Arts Festival - 22 October to 1 November, 2015
www.taurangafestival.co.nz