The Head of Strategic Communications is a senior leadership role responsible for shaping and delivering a high-impact, nationally coordinated communications strategy that drives the organisation’s influence in Australia’s economic and policy debate. This role operates as an extension of the CEO in shaping the organisation’s public voice and national profile.
Role overview
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, this role acts as a trusted adviser and strategic partner to the CEO, Chair and Board, positioning the organisation as a clear, authoritative and influential voice in the national debate. The role leads the organisation’s media, digital, campaigns, events and flagship programs – ensuring an integrated, disciplined and audience-focused approach to communications that drives engagement with members, media, stakeholders and the broader community.
The Head of Strategic Communications brings a proactive, insight-driven and outcomes-focused approach – translating complex policy into compelling narratives, shaping public discourse and strengthening the organisation’s influence in a highly contested environment. This is a highly visible leadership role requiring strong judgement, political awareness and the ability to operate effectively at pace in a complex and fast-moving landscape.
REPORTS TO – Chief Executive Officer
DIRECT REPORTSÂ 4 – 5
Employment Type – Full-time – 2-year contract
Key responsibilities
Strategic leadership and advisory
Set and deliver an integrated communications strategy aligned to organisational priorities
Provide trusted counsel to the CEO, Board and Executive on media, communications and reputational matters
Anticipate risks and opportunities, shaping timely strategic responses
Align communications, advocacy and policy to maximise influence and impact
Contribute to organisational strategy, positioning and performance
Media, public affairs and reputation
Lead proactive and reactive media engagement, including issues and crisis management
Build and leverage senior media relationships to shape narrative and extend reach
Protect and strengthen the organisation’s brand, reputation and public profile
Oversee high-quality media materials, commentary and executive communications
Prepare and coach senior leaders for media and public engagement
Campaigns, content and digital
Design and deliver targeted campaigns that influence public debate and advance priorities
Translate complex policy into clear, compelling, audience-focused messaging
Set and deliver digital strategy across web, social and content platforms
Drive innovative content that builds engagement and organisational influence
Ensure consistency of messaging and define metrics to track reach, engagement and impact
Stakeholder engagement and platforms
Enable strategic engagement with government, industry and members through effective communications
Partner with policy, advocacy and government relations teams to align external messaging
Lead a program of national platforms, including flagship events, forums and awards
Use campaigns, events and programs to strengthen relationships and position the organisation as a trusted convenor
Leadership and delivery
Lead, coach and develop a high-performing communications team
Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement
Set clear priorities and ensure disciplined planning and execution across the function
Key relationships
Internal:
Chief Executive Officer
Leadership Team
Advocacy, Government Relations and Policy teams
External
Media and key influencers
Industry and peak bodies
Member organisations
Capabilities and experience
Extensive senior experience in strategic communications, public affairs, or media leadership
Proven ability to shape narratives, influence public debate, and deliver high-impact campaigns
Strong expertise in media management, including issues and crisis communications
Deep understanding of government, political, and policy environments, with strong stakeholder networks
Exceptional strategic judgement, problem-solving, and decision-making capability
Experience leading high-performing teams and advising senior executives or boards in complex, high-stakes environments
Ability to operate at pace, manage competing priorities, and navigate ambiguity
Personal attributes
Politically astute and strategically minded
Influential and credible leader
Outcome-focused with strong execution capability
Creative, adaptable and able to operate with pace and precision
High levels of integrity, professionalism and judgement
What we offer:
Competitive salary with options for 12%, 15.4% or 17% super depending on preference
Flexible hybrid work model, including remote days and core-hours scheduling.
Salary packaging options that can improve your take home pay
Generous parental leave entitlements
FREE annual flu vaccinations
FREE parking
Access to free guidance and counselling through our Employee Assistance Program
A vibrant, inclusive culture.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants are encouraged to apply.
Additional Information
Interstate residents will be considered for this role noting that travel will be expected from time to time.
To apply:
Please include your CV and a cover page which outlines your suitability for the role.
Applications close Sunday 24th May 2026 11:59pm.
Please email [email protected] if you have any queries about the role.
