Dream job alert: VAMFF is hiring and here’s what it’ll take to land a role
Update your CV.
The team behind Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival are hiring, and we’ve got the inside scoop on how to land your dream career.
Two different positions at VAMFF are currently open. First up, the Festival is looking for a Digital Editor to create and edit content for its website, social media, blog and Shop the Runway platform. The second role is a Marketing and Communications Coordinator, working with the marketing team to provide PR and administrative support.
To help get you on your way, we asked VAMFF’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Kate Horsfall, for her top tips on securing a dream gig.
Hi Kate! First off, how did you land your job?
I was headhunted by a recruiter and was then interviewed by the CEO. I was so nervous but so excited at the opportunity to work with VAMFF. I was thoroughly prepared and had done my research about the organisation and had a handful of examples to demonstrate how I was a direct fit for the criteria they were asking for. After the interview I followed up with a thank you note. I thought there’s no way I’ll get it with the level of competition out there, but I got a call the next day with the offer and I was over the moon!
Any insider tips for landing either of the new roles?
My top tips would be to read the role descriptions thoroughly, do your research on VAMFF and tailor your application directly to the criteria and skills being advertised. Knowledge of Australian fashion is a must. Don’t lie or over-embellish in your application – it will come out eventually and then it doesn’t benefit anyone! And lastly, a display of passion, excitement and drive is great to see. You want people who really want the role and who are prepared to go over and above to get it.
What do you like to see in a cover letter?
A clean and easy to read layout, all the key information called out, and directly addressing the key skills and criteria. I also love understand WHY each applicant is applying. What are their dreams and motivations and what has attracted them to be a part of the Festival.
What’s a big no-no when it comes to job applications?
Spelling and grammar mistakes, generic ‘mass mail out’ applications and messy formats that don’t address the key criteria.
How can I make my application stand out?
I love to see applicants be pro-active and find ways to go over and above what’s being asked – whether it be through the application process, thorough research into who we are and what we do, or bringing additional documentation to the interviews. We receive so many applications, so persistence, relevancy and really going for it will pay off.
Is there an advantage to applying early?
Yes and no. Applying early is great if the application has been tailored to the role and it shows pro-activity and drive which we highly value. In saying that, there’s nothing wrong with sending an application through later as long as it’s before the closing date. We’d rather candidates take the time to do their research and perfect their application to put their best foot forward.
What do you love most about working at VAMFF?
You have the opportunity to really make a difference and have the opportunity to wear ‘different hats’ and gain experiences that you wouldn’t get in most other larger organisations. We work with some of the world’s best designers, commercial brands and media outlets which fosters collaboration, innovation and relationships to ‘create for better’.
The culture here is collaborative and innovative, with a flat structure. Everyone is valued as professionals and respected, with an approach of positivity and optimism in everything we do. And lastly, even though things can get crazy and super busy in the lead up to the event, the moment the first model steps out on that runway, it makes everything worth it to see it all come together. Knowing you’ve delivered a world-class experience for everyone to enjoy is immensely satisfying.
As Australia’s largest fashion event, we have the opportunity (and responsibility) to use our voice and platform to strengthen the fashion and creative industry here in Melbourne and more broadly across Australia, by showcasing our amazing city, industry thought leadership, designers and talented creative practitioners to the rest of the world. It’s an exciting time to be in the fashion industry.
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