Open to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander members and members of historically underrepresented communities
Expressions of interest close at 12AM (AEDT) Sunday 27 October
APRA AMCOS, the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Music Office (NATSIMO) and The Observership Program have announced that expressions of interest are now open for a new round of APRA Board Observers for 2025.
The Program offers two candidates the opportunity to develop confidence and experience in boardroom leadership and governance, as well as bring a new perspective to the table.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members who have previously participated in the NATSIMO Observership Program are Catherine Satour and Fred Leone in the inaugural program in 2023, and Nathan May and Deline Briscoe in 2024.
Nathan May explains: "I found the experience valuable in gaining insights into the operational governance of APRA AMCOS, as well as the wider music industry.
“Having Jaime Gough as my board buddy, whose skills and experience include running a publishing company and chairing the AMCOS board, helped me understand how all the parts fit together, and he was very generous with his time and sharing insights.
“I encourage anyone wanting to upskill in the industry to apply.”
In 2025, the application criteria will seek to offer one opportunity to an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander APRA songwriter/composer member, and the second opportunity to a songwriter/composer member from another underrepresented community.
Gill Dunn, Senior Manager, Community Engagement at APRA AMCOS, says: “The Observership Program is a fantastic opportunity for hands-on, practical experience for anyone who wants to learn more about what working with a Board is really like and apply that learning to their work in the music industry.
“The Program is linked to our broader equity strategy, aiming to address the gap in representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and people from other underrepresented communities at executive levels of the music industry.
"It also opens doors to self-determination for more diverse leadership models at senior positions and influences how APRA AMCOS does business within the music industry. I look forward to welcoming the two new Observers next year.”
The successful candidates will join the APRA Board as an Observer for each of the board meetings in 2025. They will be supported by an experienced APRA Board Director and APRA AMCOS Senior Manager, Community Engagement over the 12-month period, and the rich program of training on governance and practical learning offered through The Observership Program.
Expressions of interest are now open and will close at 12AM (AEDT) Sunday 27 October 2024.
Expressions of interest are open until 12AM (AEDT) Sunday 27 October 2024
INFORMATION ON APPLYING
When answering the questions, remember to tell us about who you are and what you do:
How will APRA AMCOS select the successful candidates?
APRA AMCOS will review the applications in partnership with The Observership Program. We are looking for candidates who are experienced music industry professionals, respected in their communities, with a passion for music and a demonstrated commitment to contributing to their community. Strong interpersonal relationship skills, professionalism and an ability to contribute to board discussions when invited is also important. People of colour and people with disability are strongly encouraged to apply.