2026 IMPACT International: Australia/New Zealand Next-Gen: Allison Jones

Allison Jones
Venue Manager | AGE: 28
The Fortitude Music Hall (Venue nation / ANZ)

INSPIRATION TO WORK IN THE LIVE BIZ: “Dolly Parton. I even have her name tattooed on my ankle.”

Allison Jones was part of the team that, in July 2019, opened the 3,000- to 3,500-capacity Fortitude Music Hall in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley precinct.

“There’s something incredibly special about helping build a venue from the ground up, not just the operational side, but the culture, the standards and the memories you hope the team and patrons take away after every show,” Jones says.

Of the Hall, she says: “I genuinely believe that we are building something that will become an institution for the city. … Brisbane has such an incredible live music history, and being able to contribute to the next chapter of that story is something I don’t take for granted. Watching our team grow alongside the venue and seeing the passion they bring to creating memorable experiences has been one of the biggest highlights of my career.” Jones worked full time with the venue for almost seven years in a junior management position before being promoted in January.

“It’s allowed me to work more closely with every team that contributes to the venue’s success and has reinforced just how much can be achieved when everyone is working towards the same goal,” Jones says.

“One thing I’ve learned as I’ve stepped into leadership roles is that your biggest impact isn’t always the thing you personally achieve. It’s seeing someone you’ve mentored step up, make decisions confidently and realize they’re capable of more than they thought.

“I’ve been fortunate to have leaders around me throughout my career who have taken the time to share their knowledge, challenge me and support my growth. Being able to do the same for others is something I’m incredibly passionate about.”

Jones points to Dolly Parton as an inspiration for working in the business.
“She’s an incredible businesswoman, but she’s also a storyteller who understands that the smallest details can leave the biggest impression,” Jones says. “I keep a photo of her on my pinboard because she’s a daily reminder that you can take your work seriously without taking yourself too seriously.”

As for the best advice Jones has ever received? Manage yourself out of a role. Jones explains, “In other words, build a team that can thrive without you. It’s about sharing knowledge, developing people and creating opportunities for others rather than holding onto them for yourself. If the people around you are growing, learning and becoming more capable because of your leadership, then that’s success.”