The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is looking for an accomplished leader to take on the role of Program Manager (SES Band 1), Communications Branch. This is a temporary position created to support the increased communication demands leading up to the 2026 Census of Population and Housing.
About the area
The Communications Branch is responsible for all internal and external communications that support the ABS's strategic objectives. This includes delivering a major national campaign for the 2026 Census of Population and Housing.
As Australia's national statistical agency, the ABS has been delivering trusted, objective data and insights for over 115 years. We produce more than 500 statistical releases annually, informing decisions across Australia's economy, environment, health, and society.
We are leaders in data collection, integration, and safe sharing for research and statistical purposes.
Our strategic priorities are to:
- Produce high-quality statistics
- Generate timely new insights
- Lead in the national data landscape
- Reduce burden on data providers
- Enhance organisational capability, resilience, and adaptability
The Census of Population and Housing is conducted every five years and is one of Australia's largest data collections. The Census is a snapshot of Australia and tells the story of how we are changing. The Census helps us understand what we need now, and into the future.
The 2026 Census will be held in August 2026.
About the role
In this role, you will lead a multidisciplinary team of communication professionals, including strategic communication specialists, media and campaign specialists, social media managers, graphic designers, multimedia experts, and internal communications staff. You'll play a pivotal role in shaping the agency's communication strategy and outcomes, while contributing to the broader leadership of the ABS as part of the Senior Executive team.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage a high-performing communications team, fostering a positive and inclusive culture.
- Develop and implement communication strategies aligned with ABS priorities and government objectives.
- Oversee communication activities for the 2026 Census, including a large-scale national advertising campaign to drive awareness and participation.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government, media, and the public.
- Identify and mitigate communication risks associated with high-profile initiatives.
- Champion the ABS cultural values: self-awareness, citizen-focus, collaboration, accountability, adaptability, and innovation.
- Manage the branch's budget and drive operational efficiency and effectiveness.
- Promote employee wellbeing, engagement, and retention.
- Monitor performance and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
The key duties of the position include
To be suitable you should have most or all of the following skills, qualities and experience:
- Proven expertise in leading high-profile communication initiatives, ideally within the Australian Government context.
- A strong, people-focused leader who inspires high performance and builds team capability.
- Demonstrated ability to manage risk while fostering innovation and continuous improvement.
- Excellent conceptual and analytical skills, with a strategic mindset and sound judgement.
- A track record of delivering long-term communication outcomes aligned with organisational goals.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, balancing competing priorities and deadlines.
- Highly developed stakeholder engagement skills, with experience working across government, industry, and community sectors.