CEO Robyn Ayres stepping down after 20 Years of Service. Arts Law Launches Recruitment Process for New Leader.
The Arts Law Centre of Australia, the nation’s only community legal centre dedicated to providing legal advice and support to the arts community, today announced our esteemed CEO, Robyn Ayres, will be stepping down at the end of the year after two decades of exemplary service.
The Hon. Justice John Sackar, President and Chair of the Board, expressed deep gratitude for Robyn’s invaluable contributions in fostering legal expertise and championing the rights of artists and arts organisations throughout Australia.
“Since Robyn assumed the role of CEO in 2002, the Arts Law Centre of Australia has experienced significant growth and influence, shaping the legal landscape of the arts sector,” he said.
“Through her visionary leadership, she has led the organisation to achieve remarkable milestones, leaving an indelible mark on Australia’s vibrant arts community.
“Under Robyn’s guidance, Arts Law has expanded our reach and impact, providing accessible and comprehensive legal advice to thousands of artists and arts organisations across the nation. Her commitment to promoting the rights of artists, protecting their intellectual property, and ensuring fair and ethical practices within the arts sector has been unwavering.”
Robyn’s passion for protecting the rights and empowering First Nations artists was the driving force behind the establishment of Artists in the Black, a service of Arts Law, dedicated to providing legal assistance and advice to Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and communities. In all, approximately 50% of Arts Law’s education delivery and 35% of legal advice and services falls under Artists in the Black.
As Arts Law embarks on this new chapter, we are preparing to conduct a recruitment process to identify an exceptional individual to fill the vital role of CEO. The Board of Directors is committed to selecting a visionary leader who will build upon Arts Law’s strong foundation and steer its strategic direction into the future. Justice Sackar said “The recruitment process will engage a range of stakeholders from the arts community, legal profession, and other relevant sectors. The Board has formed a selection committee comprising arts professionals and industry leaders, who will oversee the process and ensure the appointment of an outstanding CEO who embodies the purpose, mission and values of the Arts Law Centre of Australia.”
Justice Sackar acknowledged the Board’s appreciation for the significant contributions Robyn has made during her 20 years at the helm of Arts Law and emphasised the importance of finding a capable successor. He said the Board also was pleased to advise Robyn’s continuing involvement as a consultant to Arts Laws on major projects.
“We are immensely grateful for Robyn Ayres’ exceptional leadership and tireless dedication to Australia’s arts community. Our next CEO will inherit an organisation that has made a profound impact on artists’ lives, and we are confident in finding an exceptional leader who will continue to advance the rights of artists and drive positive change.”
The Arts Law Centre of Australia invites expressions of interest from highly qualified and visionary individuals who are passionate about the arts and possess a deep understanding of legal matters affecting the sector.
Applications open on Monday 3 July and close on Thursday 10 August 2023.
Further details regarding the recruitment process, including timelines and application instructions, can be found on the Arts Law website at artslaw.com.au/careers/chief-executive-officer/
For inquiries or further information about the role and recruitment process, please contact:
Jemma Fitzgerald, Principal, Converge HR
M: 0420 959 946
E: [email protected]
W: www.convergepeople.com
For more information or requests for comment, please contact:
Emily Phipps, Communications Manager, Arts Law Centre of Australia
M: 0426 886 383
E: [email protected]