Communications Manager

Be challenged and imagine with us

As Communications Manager, you will lead the team responsible for identifying and sharing captivating stories about the University’s research, people, programs, and achievements. You will provide proactive, strategic advice to both internal and external stakeholders, building relationships that enhance the University’s reputation.

In this role you will:

• Lead the delivery of the University’s communication strategy across owned and earned media.
• Develop, execute, and assess project-specific communication strategies aligned with broader Communications and Engagement goals.
• Drive synergies between student recruitment content and other University stories, including research, brand, industry, and innovation.
• Benchmark and analyse competitors and industry leaders to inform decision-making and refine communications strategies.

This fixed term position is a parental leave cover until November 2025, is full time, and will be located at the Callaghan Campus (Awabakal and Worimi land).

How will you inspire us?

You will have:

• Extensive experience in communications, media relations, journalism, or public relations, with a strong understanding of communication channels.
• Expertise in executing communications strategies and delivering major projects.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Ability to build and maintain successful relationships with stakeholders at all levels.

What we offer

The remuneration for this position is HEW Level 8, $112,112 to $130,798 + 17% superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience. 

There is potential for this role to undertake higher duties at HEW Level 9 during this time.

We offer a range of benefits and employment conditions that help you balance your commitments, stay healthy, and work effectively. For information on our employee benefits (such as leave, flexible working, discounts in private health insurance and gym memberships, and salary packaging) please visit here.  

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision are our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability.

Your next steps

Important information before you apply:

• If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ (or equivalent) to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy from the Related Documents section before commencing your application.
• Applications for this position will only be accepted from those with Australian residency or a valid work permit.

Your application:

Your application must include:

• Your resume.
• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity.
• A statement addressing the Essential Criteria listed below (these may differ slightly from the Position Description, please only respond to the below in your application).

1. Postgraduate qualifications and extensive relevant experience in communications, journalism or public relations; or extensive experience and communications and media relations management expertise; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training.
2. Significant experience leading a team of communications professionals to deliver exceptional performance and a focus on nurturing staff to achieve their potential.  
3. Proven experience developing, executing and evaluating media and communications strategies for major projects and initiatives using multiple channels and tools to achieve success.
4. Strong written communication skills, including researching, writing, interviewing, editing and proofing skills; and a strong news sense.
5. Highly developed negotiation and relationship management skills, including the ability to build and maintain media contacts and work within a large, complex organisation with multiple stakeholders.

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document. This document should not exceed 3 pages.

We value diversity and strive to ensure that our recruitment processes are equitable, inclusive, and barrier-free. If you require an alternative pathway to view the Position Description or to submit an application, please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au.

We also seek to provide a fair chance to all applicants by providing reasonable adjustments where required during the assessment and interview phases of the recruitment process.

Contact Us

For specific position enquiries, please contact Madelaine Love, Media and Communication Specialist on 0423 743 970 or via email at madelaine.love@newcastle.edu.au

Having technical difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au Please note, we do not accept email applications.

Closing date: Monday 14 October 2024 at 11.59pm AEDT

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do. 

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.  

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