Director of Community Engagement
Permanent Position
$170 - $200k + super
We are seeking a dynamic, relationship-focused leader to join Cranbrook School as their Director of Community Engagement. This role reflects their commitment to strengthening meaningful connections across the school community during an exciting period of growth and evolution.
Reporting to the Director, Marketing and Communications and working closely with the Director, Advancement, you will build and sustain relationships across current and past parents, alumni, students and friends of the School. You will also act as a key conduit between the School and its volunteer communities, including the Cranbrook Foundation, Old Cranbrookians Association (OCA) and Cranbrook School Parents' Association (CSPA).
This role plays a critical part in strengthening community connection, volunteer leadership and long-term engagement aligned with the School's mission and strategic plan.
About the Role
You will:
* Develop and implement a comprehensive community engagement strategy aligned to the School's strategic objectives.
* Foster a culture of belonging, inclusion and mutual respect across all community groups.
* Serve as a visible and approachable ambassador within parent, alumni and local communities.
* Build strong working relationships with the Cranbrook Foundation, OCA, CSPA, staff, parents and broader community stakeholders.
* Partner with the CSPA to support parent and family engagement programs including orientation, affinity groups, volunteering and educational initiatives.
* Collaborate with Advancement and Alumni to cultivate lifelong engagement and stewardship.
* Oversee the planning and delivery of major community events including open days, school celebrations, alumni events and community forums.
* Work closely with Admissions and Academic leadership to ensure events and engagement initiatives are purposeful and aligned.
* Cultivate partnerships with local organisations and external stakeholders to enhance visibility and impact.
* Provide advice to senior leadership on community engagement trends and opportunities.
* Use data, feedback and engagement metrics to evaluate effectiveness and guide continuous improvement.
* Prepare reports, presentations and strategic updates for leadership as required.
* Supervise staff and volunteers as appropriate, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
* Some evening and weekend work is required, along with occasional local travel.
About You
You are a natural connector who enjoys building trust, momentum and community. You bring:
* 7-10 years' experience in community engagement, advancement, communications, education or a related field.
* Demonstrated success building relationships across diverse stakeholder groups.
* Strong strategic thinking paired with practical execution capability.
* Proven experience delivering events, programs and volunteer initiatives.
* Excellent communication, organisational and project management skills.
* A collaborative leadership style and comfort working across multiple teams.
* Systems thinking and the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
* Experience in an independent or mission-driven environment (highly regarded).
* A genuine alignment with the ethos, mission and values of Cranbrook School.
Child Safety
Cranbrook School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Appointment will be subject to relevant child safety checks, including a Working with Children Check.