el1 strategic communications manager

HR Partners; Canberra; On-site; AUD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Randstad is seeking an experienced Communications Manager in an EL1-equivalent role to lead integrated communications for a major Australian initiative. You will design and execute high-impact strategies and translate complex policy into compelling narratives for senior stakeholders.

The role requires an active NV1 security clearance and is a 12+12 month contract, with oversight of external providers and proven writing excellence.

Qualifications

• Strategic communications frameworks for complex operating environments.
• Top-tier writing/editing for diverse audiences.
• Experience handling sensitive public diplomacy and reputational risk.

Responsibilities

• Lead integrated communications strategies, campaigns, and strategic narratives to advance objectives.
• Provide expert guidance to senior executives and project leaders, identify media opportunities and manage reputational risks.
• Draft and coordinate approval of speeches, media releases, talking points, digital content, and factsheets.
• Plan communications for major announcements, Ministerial engagements, and milestones.
• Build relationships with government and industry stakeholders.
• Oversee external communications vendors to ensure high-value deliverables.
• Analyze media coverage and use data to refine messaging.

Skills

Strategic Communications

Campaigns

Writing Skills

Issue & Risk Management

Stakeholder Engagement

Government Knowledge

Job description

Randstad is seeking an experienced, high-performing Communications Manager to lead integrated strategic communications for a major Australian initiative. In this dynamic EL1-equivalent role, you will lead the design and execution of high-impact communications strategies and campaigns, translate complex technical information into compelling narratives, and provide key risk and reputation advice to senior stakeholders.

• Security Clearance: NV1 Clearance required
• NV1 clearance mandatory

Role Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of integrated, proactive communications strategies, campaigns, and strategic narratives to advance key organizational objectives.
• Provide expert communications advice to senior executives and project leaders, identifying media opportunities and managing reputational risks.
• Draft and coordinate approvals for high-quality materials, including speeches, media releases, talking points, digital content, and factsheets.
• Plan and execute communications for major announcements, Ministerial engagements, and milestone events.
• Build and maintain strong, productive relationships with diverse government and industry stakeholders.
• Oversee external communications providers and vendors to ensure innovative, high-value deliverables.
• Analyze media coverage and leverage data analytics to refine messaging and measure impact.

Key Selection Criteria

• Strategic Communications & Campaigns: Proven track record in developing and executing end-to-end strategic communications frameworks in complex operating environments.
• Exceptional Writing Skills: Superior writing and editing capabilities with experience producing tailored, culturally appropriate content for varied target audiences.
• Issue & Risk Management: Demonstrated experience handling sensitive public diplomacy, media, and reputational risk issues.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Highly developed political awareness with the ability to influence and collaborate across multiple government departments and external entities.
• Government Knowledge: Deep understanding of strategic communications principles, public diplomacy, and government decision-making processes.

We Want to Hear From You If…

• You are a strategic thinker who thrives in high-profile, fast-paced environments.
• You excel at translating complex policy or technical details into clear, engaging narratives.
• You hold an active NV1 security clearance and are ready to jump into an impactful 12+12 month contract.

At Randstad, we are passionate about providing equal employment opportunities and embracing diversity to the benefit of all. We actively encourage applications from any background.