EL1 Strategic Communications Manager

Drive strategic communications and stakeholder engagement to advance Australia’s policy priorities on the global stage.

Join a major federal government department shaping Australia’s foreign, trade and development policy and representing our interests on the global stage.

Working across a diverse network of international and domestic stakeholders, the department builds strong relationships and delivers outcomes that advance Australia’s interests worldwide.

The Opportunity

As the Strategic Communications Manager you will lead the development and delivery of integrated communications strategies, campaigns and content that build stakeholder confidence, strengthen reputation and support organisational objectives.

Working closely with internal teams and stakeholders across government, you will identify strategic opportunities, anticipate emerging issues and translate complex technical and policy information into clear, compelling narratives for diverse audiences.

You’ll have the opportunity to:

• Provide strategic communications advice to senior executives and project leaders, while overseeing external communications and creative partners
• Use data, audience insights and evaluation to strengthen communications impact and effectiveness
• Contribute to regional and global initiatives that advance Australia’s interests and strengthen its international engagement, reputation and partnerships

The Role

As a Strategic Communications Manager, you’ll be responsible for:

• Leading integrated communications strategies and campaigns that build awareness, engagement and organisational reputation
• Providing strategic communications advice to senior leaders and project teams, managing risks and identifying opportunities
• Developing clear, compelling narratives and messaging from complex information for diverse audiences
• Leading communications for major announcements, stakeholder engagements and key project milestones
• Identifying and managing emerging communications risks and issues, providing timely advice and responses
• Building strong relationships with senior stakeholders, government agencies, partners and media
• Developing high-quality communications products including media releases, speeches, digital content, social media and briefing materials
• Managing external communications providers and use media, audience and performance insights to continuously improve communications outcomes

The Ideal Person

You will bring strong writing expertise and a knowledge or interest of Australia’s foreign policy objectives and engagement in the Pacific region.

You will have experience providing strategic communication advice at a senior level, ideally within government, and a proven ability to lead and collaborate in a high-pressure environment.

You will also have the following skills/capabilities:

• Excellent collaboration and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively
• Highly motivated and self-directed, with the ability to translate complex analysis into impactful strategies and products.

An active Negative Vetting 1 clearance is essential for this role.

Salary / Rate

• $85/hr – $100/hr + Super
• 12-month labour-hire contract with a 12-month extension option
• Flexible working arrangements available