JJoel McGuinness is an accomplished cultural leader with extensive experience as a CEO, creative director and senior executive across the arts, government and community sectors. He is passionate about the transformative power of creativity and its role in shaping vibrant, inclusive communities.

Joel is currently Director, Experience at State Library Victoria, where he is part of the Executive Team leading the delivery of exceptional programs, partnerships and experiences for nearly 3 million onsite and over 6 million online visitors annually. His role reflects a deep commitment to public cultural institutions and sector leadership, contributing to one of the world’s busiest and best libraries.

Prior to this, Joel was CEO and Creative Director at Geelong Arts Centre for over six years. There, he led the organisation through a $200 million redevelopment — transforming it into Australia’s largest dedicated regional arts centre — and oversaw a decade-long strategic vision, which included launching the Centre’s Creative Engine and securing significant government and private sector investment. Under his leadership, Geelong Arts Centre was awarded 2024 Australian Performing Arts Centre of the Year.

Joel previously founded JAM Creative Arts in Western Australia, where he developed large-scale regional arts initiatives including Bunbury Fringe, which debuted with over 10,000 attendees and 50 events citywide. He also served as an elected member of the City of Bunbury Council, co-chairing the city’s first cultural strategy and championing the role of arts and culture in civic life.

His earlier leadership roles include Executive Director at Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre (awarded Australian Performing Arts Centre of the Year in 2016), and senior positions with CircuitWest and APACA. He has worked nationally and internationally with companies including Circa, Brisbane Festival and the inaugural Red Earth Arts Festival in Karratha.

Joel holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from WAAPA and a Master of Cultural Leadership from NIDA, graduating with distinction and having his research published in 2024. He continues to contribute to sector growth through roles on numerous boards and advisory groups, including Chair of Deakin University’s Bachelor of Arts Advisory Board, Non-Executive Director Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and the Melbourne’s UNESCO City of Literature board.