Cinema / Theatre Manager

Cinema / Theatre Manager

Location: Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Employment Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Hours: 31.5 hours per week (guaranteed)
Salary: $57,500 per annum

About the Role
We are seeking a passionate and experienced Cinema / Theatre Manager to lead
the day-to-day operations of a vibrant, independent community cinema and
performing arts venue in Devonport. This is a hands-on role with a strong focus on
Front of House operations, event management, and customer experience, while
supporting the organisation’s mission to engage audiences, artists, and the wider
community.

Critical thinking, attention to detail and professionalism are the main attributes you
will have. This is because you will play a key management role in ensuring smooth
operations, delivering high-quality events, and maintaining a welcoming, professional
environment for patrons and stakeholders alike.

Key Responsibilities – You will need to be able to manage the cinema
independently – the buck stops with you! In general, you will plan, organise and
control day-to-day cinema and theatre operations. More specifically, your
responsibilities will include:

Front of House Operations.
 Oversee daily cinema and theatre operations.
 Maintain high presentation standards across all screening and public areas.

 Ensure excellent customer service is consistently delivered.
 Manage café, bar, and concession operations.

Staff Management & Training.
 Lead, support, and train Front of House and event staff.
 Delegate effectively and provide ongoing feedback.
 Ensure compliance with food safety and operational standards.
 Coordinate staffing requirements for events and daily operations.

Event Management
 Coordinate and manage event bookings in collaboration with senior management.
 Ensure all events are well planned, communicated, and executed successfully.
 Deliver exceptional audience experiences.

Cinema Operations & Projection.
 Support film programming operations.
 Manage DCPs and KDMs, build and test playlists.
 Ensure projection equipment is maintained and functioning effectively.
You will also be involved with client and customer relations, marketing and promotion
as well as administration and reporting.

Desired Certifications
The following are desired certifications, necessary for the position. No biggie if you
don’t have these BUT you have the willingness and motivation to obtain:
 Licence Controller Qualification (LCQ).
 Manager’s Certificate (Sale & Supply of Alcohol Act 2012).
 First Aid Certificate.
 Safety Warden Training.

Skills & Experience
 Experience in cinema operations a minimum of 5 years – more is preferred!
This is due to the high requirements of the role, the responsibility and oversight of New Zealand’s, and the Southern Hemisphere's oldest surviving purpose-built cinema, dating from 1912.
 Strong understanding of Front of House and hospitality operations.
 Knowledge of film programming and the events industry.
 Experience with POS systems and cash handling.
 Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
 Critical thinking essential for this role. It is advantageous that you have a university qualification or degree in an industry related subject but not an absolute requirement.
 Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
 Technical understanding of projection or theatre equipment (advantageous).

How to Apply
If you’re passionate about cinema, events, and delivering exceptional customer
experiences, we’d love to hear from you. Please send us your CV and cover letter
outlining your relevant experience and your motivation to work with us.