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Executive Director, Strategic Communications

Apply now Job no: 532748
Work type: Full Time
Location: Sydney, NSW
Categories: Professional Leadership, Marketing / Communications

  • Employment Type: Full time, continuing 

  • Remuneration: Competitive total package- Senior Appointment 

  • Location: Kensington, NSW (Hybrid work arrangement available) 

About Us:   
UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. Taking this combined approach is what makes our work matter. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.  

About Division of Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement (DSIEE) 
The UNSW Division of Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement (DSIEE) leads UNSW’s efforts in making positive and lasting impact on society, promoting equity and social justice and driving engagement activities that enhance UNSW’s reputation as a key contributor to society through its research, teaching, and community engagement. 

DSIEE develops strong partnerships and influential relationships with key organisations, communities, government, and alumni to advance the University’s profile and reputation as a sector leader in societal impact, supporting a university-wide agenda to drive effective change and engagement. 

Why Your role matters  
 
As the Executive Director, Strategic Communications you will report to the Vice-President, Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement (SIEE), with an indirect reporting line to the Vice-Chancellor and President. You will work collaboratively with senior leadership across the University. The Executive Director, Strategic Communications is responsible for: 

  • Developing and delivering the Vice-Chancellor and President’s communications and external engagement plan. 

  • Leading the External and Internal Communications teams to deliver professional and consistent communications. 

  • Leading strategic communications projects as defined by the Vice-Chancellor and the Vice-President, SIEE. 

  • Engaging with the Press Gallery to promote thought leadership through strategic placement of positive media stories, as well as working with journalists to ensure that they are well informed as to the complexity of the higher education sector. 

  • Supporting the Vice-President, SIEE to shape the evolution of strategic communications in accordance with the UNSW Strategy: Progress for All. 

  • Providing guidance and advice to the Vice-Chancellor and University Leadership Team (ULT) in response to high level issues.  

  • Provide specialist communications advice and support to the Vice-President SIEE and other ULT members as required. 

  • Supporting the Vice-Chancellor in engaging and responding to feedback from internal and external stakeholders to shape our strategic focus and ongoing implementation of our strategic plan. 

 

Skills & Experience summary: You’ll bring strong leadership skills and a standout background in corporate communications alongside:  

  • A relevant qualification, or equivalent level of knowledge, and experience

  • Proven record of developing successful communications strategies and leading their implementation to meet key institutional strategic goals. 

  • Experience of providing high level reports to a Management Board or equivalent. 

  • Proven ability to work collaboratively with a variety of client groups and key internal/external stakeholders, demonstrating a flexible and adaptable approach. 

  • Experience in leading crisis communications. 

  • Commitment to the principles of continuous quality improvement. 

UNSW Benefits and Culture  

People are at the core of everything we do. We recognise it is the contributions of our staff who make UNSW one of the best universities in Australia and the world. Our benefits include:  

  • Flexible Working Options (work from home, flexible hours etc)  

  • Additional 3 days leave during December festive period. 

  • Career development opportunities  

  • Up to 50% discount on UNSW courses 

  • Flexible 17% Superannuation contributions and salary sacrifice options. 

  • Discounts and entitlements (retail, education, fitness passport) 

For further information on the role & responsibilities, please refer to the position description 

How to Apply: Submit your CV & cover letter detailing your interest and suitability for the job (as per the skills & experience bullet points in the job description) before Sunday 22 June 11:55pm. 
 
Job queries contact: Kim Symons, Talent Acquisition  
E: k.symons@unsw.edu.au  (applications to the address cannot be accepted, please apply online) 

  

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. 

 

 

 

Position Description

Advertised: AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: AUS Eastern Standard Time

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