Senior manager - government & media relations

We're looking for a strategic and highly connected Senior Manager – Government & Media Relations to lead our government relations, public policy and media engagement agenda across Wesfarmers Health.

Reporting to the General Manager Corporate Affairs & Sustainability, you will play a critical leadership role navigating a complex and highly regulated external environment—building trusted relationships with government, regulators, industry bodies and media, while shaping policy outcomes that support our business and customers.

You'll act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, providing insight on policy, regulatory and reputational matters, while elevating the organisation's external profile and credibility as a leading voice in health, beauty and wellness.

In this role, you will:

• Lead the development and execution of an integrated government relations strategy across Commonwealth and state/territory stakeholders
• Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships with ministers, regulators, industry bodies and key external stakeholders
• Shape and drive Wesfarmers Health's public policy platform, advocacy agenda and thought leadership initiatives
• Develop high-quality submissions, position papers and regulatory responses aligned to strategic priorities
• Monitor and interpret the policy and regulatory landscape, providing timely insights and advice to senior leaders
• Act as the primary interface for media, managing proactive engagement as well as complex issues and crisis situations
• Develop and execute media strategies that strengthen brand reputation and position the organisation as a trusted voice

• Minimum 15 years' experience in public affairs, government relations, corporate communications or a related field, with demonstrated experience operating at a senior level
• Proven track record in public policy development and advocacy, including the preparation of submissions, position papers and regulatory representations
• Experience engaging with governments at Commonwealth and state/territory levels, ideally across health or closely related portfolios
• Solid understanding of the Australian health regulatory environment including familiarity with the Pharmacy Guild, AHPRA, TGA or equivalent bodies
• Established media relations experience, including managing complex, sensitive and high‐profile situations
• Strong written communication skills, with the ability to produce compelling policy arguments, executive briefings and media materials to a high standard
• Political acumen and stakeholder judgement with an ability to read the environment, anticipate risk and translate complexity into practical, actionable advice
• Bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, communications, journalism, law or a related discipline (required)
• Postgraduate qualifications in a relevant field (preferred)

• Access to employee benefits across Wesfarmers including team member discounts at Bunnings, Kmart, Target, Officeworks, OnePass, Priceline, atomica and Clear Skincare Clinics
• Ongoing professional development and career opportunities across the Wesfarmers Health Division and the broader Wesfarmers Group
• Novated leasing options
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - available to all team members and their immediate family members, 24/7, 365 days a year
• Beautiful outdoor terrace for work and recreation
• Food, coffee and health & wellbeing facilities onsite including a landlord operated gym
• Dedicated end of trip facilities (cycle racks, showers, lockers)

Wesfarmers Health aims to become an employer of choice for First Nations Australians, through investments that attract, empower and retain First Nations team members within our stores, distribution centres, clinics and corporate offices.

As part of the Wesfarmers group, we provide authentic support through a diverse range of programs and initiatives, designed to empower you on your journey towards personal achievement and professional advancement.