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Jade Lillie
Head of Industry Development at Australia Council for the Arts
Professional Background
Jade Lillie is a highly respected executive and leader with an impressive 15 years of experience across various sectors, including arts, culture, health, community development, and education. Her career has been marked by her strategic thinking and a strong commitment to community and stakeholder engagement. Known for her exceptional communication skills and ability to foster collaboration and partnerships, Jade has made her mark in both government and non-government settings in Australia and Southeast Asia.
One of Jade's notable roles includes her tenure as Director and CEO of the Footscray Community Arts Centre, where she led transformative initiatives that significantly enhanced engagement and participation in the arts. During her five-year impact at the center, she was recognized with the prestigious Sidney Myer Creative Fellowship for 2018-2019, underscoring her contributions to the cultural fabric of Australia. Furthermore, her current position as Head of Sector Development at Australia Council for the Arts sees her spearheading a dynamic team dedicated to capacity building, creating mobility opportunities, and enhancing the Australian arts sector's sustainability and vibrancy.
Jade is passionate about diversity and inclusion, actively advocating for a cultural landscape that reflects intercultural and intergenerational diversity. Her commitment is evident in her leadership approach, which emphasizes developing the next generation of cultural leaders and tackling significant social, cultural, and political challenges. Her vision focuses on creating spaces where all communities feel represented and valued.
Education and Achievements
Jade began her educational journey at Maroochydore State High School, where she completed her schooling from Year 8 to 12. She furthered her academic pursuits by obtaining a Bachelor of Arts (Drama) and a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) in Theatre from the esteemed Queensland University of Technology (QUT). Her educational background laid the foundation for her career, equipping her with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in arts education and community engagement.
Throughout her career, Jade has held various high-profile positions that illustrate her diverse skill set. Noteworthy past roles include:
- Director and CEO at Footscray Community Arts Centre
Led innovative programs that bridged communities and provided accessible arts experiences to the wider public. - Head of Sector Development at Australia Council for the Arts
Currently guides a high-impact team focused on strategic initiatives that bolster the arts community. - Director, Public Affairs at cohealth
Enhanced public engagement through creative communications and community outreach. - Organisational Development Advisor at Australian Volunteers International
Provided strategic consultation to boost volunteer engagement in local and international settings.
As a recognized leader in her field, she has been the recipient of the Kirk Robson Award, which acknowledges her outstanding contributions to community arts and cultural leadership. Jade is particularly committed to program excellence and believes in the transformative power of the arts to inspire change and address critical societal issues.
Achievements
Jade's illustrious career and achievements reflect her commitment to making a difference in the arts and community landscape. As a passionate advocate for cultural leadership, she aims to craft innovative solutions that elevate the arts sector and enrich the community's cultural identity.
- Her leadership efforts at the Australia Council for the Arts have led to the development of several strategic initiatives aimed at increasing access to the arts, promoting cultural exchange, and ensuring sustainability within the sector.
- Through her book project, The Relationship is The Project, Jade explores the significance of collaboration in the arts and community spaces, providing valuable insights for emerging leaders.
- Jade's work in community development and arts education has not only influenced policy but also empowered countless individuals to realize their artistic potential through holistic engagement strategies.
In conclusion, Jade Lillie exemplifies what it means to be a leader dedicated to the arts and community development. Her vision, expertise, and unwavering advocacy for diversity and inclusion position her as a pivotal figure in shaping the landscape of Australian arts and cultural engagement. Jade continues to inspire through her projects and initiatives aimed at fostering a vibrant, cohesive artistic community that resonates deeply with all Australians.
