Senior Media & Communications Leader, Regional Council

OnTalent; Toowoomba Regional; On-site; AUD 117,000 - 124,000; Full time

Job summary

Toowoomba Regional Council is seeking a senior Principal, Media & Communications to lead strategic media work, protect reputation and keep the community informed. You will advise the Mayor, Councillors and senior leaders on sensitive issues and manage complex communications in a fast‑moving environment.

You will develop integrated strategies, lead crisis responses and deliver audience‑focused messages across channels, while building team capability and strong stakeholder relationships.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in media relations and integrated communications within complex, high‑profile environments.
• Strong strategic communications, issues and reputation management capability.
• Exceptional writing and editing across media materials, speeches and multi‑channel content.
• Demonstrated political awareness, sound judgment and composure under pressure.
• Experience providing trusted communications advice to senior executives and/or elected representatives.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing capability without formal authority.
• Balance of strategic thinking with practical, hands‑on delivery.
• Relevant degree in communications, public relations, journalism or related discipline; substantial equivalent experience.
• Current C Class Driver’s Licence.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver integrated media and communication strategies aligned with Council priorities.
• Provide high‑level strategic media, communications, issues and reputation guidance to the Mayor, Councillors and senior leaders.
• Identify emerging issues and proactively manage reputational risks and opportunities.
• Lead crisis and issues communications.
• Deliver audience‑focused communications across channels with strong storytelling.
• Manage stakeholder relationships with internal and external partners and media outlets.
• Provide leadership and guidance across the Media and Communications team.
• Monitor media sentiment and community feedback to inform future messages.
• Collaborate across Council for coordinated, strategic communications.

Skills

Media relations

Strategic communications

Writing & editing

Political awareness

Executive advisory

Stakeholder management

Strategic delivery

Degree in comms

Driver's licence

Education

Degree in communications

Job description

Toowoomba Regional Council is seeking a senior Principal, Media & Communications to lead strategic media work, protect reputation and keep the community informed. You will advise the Mayor, Councillors and senior leaders on sensitive issues and manage complex communications in a fast‑moving environment.

You will develop integrated strategies, lead crisis responses and deliver audience‑focused messages across channels, while building team capability and strong stakeholder relationships.