Executive Director, External Affairs & Policy Strategy

Energy Networks Australia; Canberra; Hybrid; AUD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working arrangements (remote/

Office spaces in Sydney, Melbourne, &

Regular domestic travel

Job summary

Energy Networks Australia (ENA) seeks a senior leader to direct how ENA engages with government, regulators, members, media and the public. Reporting to the Chief Executive and as part of the Executive Leadership Team, you will advise the CEO and Board on reputation and advocacy and shape ENA’s strategic direction.

This lean executive role focuses on prioritising high-impact activities, leading a small team, and delivering evidence-based policy positions and campaigns, with strong external

Qualifications

• Senior leadership experience in advocacy, government relations, or communications.
• Sound judgement and ability to carry a position with stakeholders.
• Proven ability to engage Ministers, regulators, boards and CEOs.

Responsibilities

• Set and deliver ENA strategy, business plan, and budget with the Executive Leadership Team.
• Advise the CEO and Board on reputation, advocacy, and stakeholder outcomes.
• Lead ENA's Communications and Advocacy Strategy for priority impact.
• Build and lead a small External Affairs team with clear accountability.
• Establish senior relationships with Ministers, parliamentarians, regulators, and industry partners.
• Translate technical work into clear messages for senior decision makers, and inform policy positions.
• Lead industry campaigns and secure co-funding from major stakeholders.
• Serve as senior spokesperson for ENA in media and at external events.

Skills

Senior leadership

Advocacy

Stakeholder management

Media spokesperson

Team leadership

Strategic thinking

Public policy

Education

Tertiary qualification in communications/public policy/journalism/economics/law/engineering

Job description

Energy Networks Australia (ENA) seeks a senior leader to direct how ENA engages with government, regulators, members, media and the public. Reporting to the Chief Executive and as part of the Executive Leadership Team, you will advise the CEO and Board on reputation and advocacy and shape ENA’s strategic direction.

This lean executive role focuses on prioritising high-impact activities, leading a small team, and delivering evidence-based policy positions and campaigns, with strong external