Manager Communications and Engagement
At a glance
Manager-level Communications role at Department of Communities and Justice. Lismore · A$154,231–A$178,369 base.
growthroles summary, based on the employer's posting.
What you'll do
- Set communications and engagement direction across a varied group of programs, linking the work to organisational priorities and community outcomes
- Advise senior leaders on communications and engagement matters
- Guide the production of communications materials, handle sensitive issues and maintain stakeholder relationships across the Northern Rivers
- Lead a team delivering communications and engagement work across the Authority
What you bring
- Relevant qualifications in communications, public relations or journalism, or equivalent experience you can demonstrate
- Substantial experience in communications and stakeholder engagement, including work in politically and media-sensitive settings
- Leadership experience developing and motivating teams, alongside strong writing, speaking and influencing skills
Who this fits
This manager role suits someone who can make complex information clear to varied audiences and build agreement across stakeholder groups. It is based in Lismore, with flexible or hybrid working, and is full time and temporary through 31 December 2027.
From the employer
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Full time, temporary role up to 31 December 2027.
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Office location – Lismore with flexible/hybrid working environment.
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Clerk Grade 11/12, Salary relative to experience ($154,231 – 178,369) + super
Be part of a team that helps communities prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters across New South Wales. As Manager Communications & Engagement, you will lead strategic communications and engagement initiatives that strengthen community connections, build stakeholder trust and promote the important work of the NSW Reconstruction Authority in the Northern Rivers.
About the Role
Reporting to the Director Communications & Engagement, you will lead the development and delivery of strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and community engagement initiatives across a diverse portfolio of programs. You will provide expert advice to senior leaders and ensure communications activities support organisational priorities and community outcomes.
Working in a complex and fast-paced environment, you will oversee the creation of engaging communications materials, manage sensitive issues, build strong stakeholder relationships and lead a team to deliver high-quality communications and engagement outcomes across the Authority in the Northern Rivers.
About You
You'll bring significant communications and stakeholder engagement experience, along with a passion for building trusted relationships and delivering meaningful outcomes for communities. Ideally, you will have:
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Exceptional stakeholder engagement, communication and influencing skills, with the ability to translate complex information for diverse audiences.
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Proven leadership experience, including coaching, developing and motivating high-performing teams.
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Demonstrated experience managing communications in a complex, politically and media-sensitive environment.
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Strong stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to build consensus and influence outcomes across diverse groups.
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Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with experience developing high-quality communications collateral and strategic messaging.
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Proven leadership capability with experience managing, developing and motivating teams.
Essential Requirements
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Relevant tertiary qualifications in communications, public relations or journalism or relevant/demonstrated equivalent experience
For more information read the full Role Description: Manager Communications and Engagement.
About the Agency
The NSW Reconstruction Authority is a statutory corporation and executive agency of the Premier’s Department, that will improve how NSW plans for disasters and ensure that we recover from them faster.
To reduce the severity and impacts of disasters, the NSW Reconstruction Authority will complete critical planning and preparation with communities, businesses and government. When disaster does strike, we will get recovery started swiftly and coordinate reconstruction efforts across agencies, communities and other stakeholders.
Joining our team with a rewarding job in a community-driven agency is just the start. The Authority also offers:
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Flexible working practices
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Contemporary workspaces and technology
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Access to learning and development opportunities
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Employee assistance and wellbeing program (with a cool app)
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Workforce that values inclusion
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Competitive pay and conditions
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Fitness Passport with a choice of 200+ gyms and pools across NSW
To Apply
If excited by the information above, please submit an online application including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.
Applications close: 3:55pm, Wednesday 11 November 2026
Should you require further information about the role please contact Lauren Maher, Director Communications & Engagement at lauren.maher@reconstruction.nsw.gov.au
Our Commitment
Great people come from all walks of life. At NSW Reconstruction Authority we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and flexible environment which reflects the community and customers we serve. We actively promote gender diversity in our workplaces, the employment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and the employment of people with a disability, veterans and other diverse communities. We welcome and encourage applications from all people regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, cultural background or sexual orientation.
Additional Information
The recruitment process may include a range of assessments including interview, psychometric assessments, work sample activities and pre-employment checks as required.
Looking for more information or assistance with applying?
We encourage and support applications from people with a disability. If you require an adjustment to the recruitment process to help you perform at your best (including information in an alternate format or an alternate method of submission of the application) please contact the Talent Team via talentacquisition@reconstruction.nsw.gov.au or 0409 382 621 and reference the Job Title and Reference Number for the role in which you are requesting the adjustment.
Recruitment Pool
A recruitment pool may be created for future ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that become available over the next 18 months