Head of Communications, Marketing & Advocacy – Sunshine Coast Council
Executive Leadership Role | Sunshine Coast Region | Non-Award Contract | Salary Circa $235,000 TRP
Public Sector People are partnering with Sunshine Coast Council to appoint a Head of Communications, Marketing & Advocacy, a pivotal leadership position responsible for shaping Council's brand, reputation, strategic communications and external engagement across one of Australia's fastest-growing and most sustainable regions.
This role will suit an executive communications leader with a passion for public value, community impact and strategic influence.
The Role
Reporting to the Director Business Transformation & Performance, you will lead Council's integrated communications, marketing, media and advocacy functions, ensuring clear alignment with organisational priorities and the vision for the Sunshine Coast to be Australia's most sustainable region: Connected. Liveable. Thriving.
You will set the direction for Council's Strategic Marketing & Communication Plan, lead high-performing teams, guide media and reputation management, and drive coordinated advocacy efforts that elevate the region's interests at state, federal and industry levels.
Key Areas Of Responsibility Include
* Providing high-level strategic advice to the Mayor, CEO, Councillors and Executive on communication, marketing and advocacy priorities.
* Leading the development and implementation of Council's Strategic Marketing & Communication Plan.
* Overseeing media, digital, marketing, brand, social media and design functions, ensuring consistent, high-quality output.
* Managing emerging issues proactively to protect and strengthen Council's reputation.
* Monitoring community sentiment, media trends and political developments to inform strategy.
* Leading the development of advocacy strategies, frameworks and governance structures.
* Preparing high-quality briefings, submissions, funding applications and investment-ready proposals.
* Building strong partnerships across government, industry and community sectors.
* Championing Council's values and fostering a high-performance, service-driven culture.
This is a visible, influential leadership position shaping how the Sunshine Coast is represented, understood and advocated for across Queensland and Australia.
About You
You are a seasoned communications, marketing or public affairs leader with demonstrated experience advising Executive and political stakeholders in complex, high-profile environments.
You Will Bring
* Formal qualifications in communications, marketing, public relations or related discipline (postgraduate desirable).
* A proven track record of delivering integrated communications, marketing and/or advocacy strategies for a large organisation or level of government.
* Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and aligning brand, media, digital and strategic communications functions.
* Strong capability in navigating ambiguity, managing emerging issues and providing clear, influential advice.
* Excellent relationship-building capability across public, private and community sectors.
* High-level written communication skills and experience preparing briefings for elected representatives and senior executives.
* A values-driven leadership style aligned to organisational excellence, community service and collaborative partnerships.
You will be motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking organisation recognised globally for sustainability, innovation and liveability.
Why Join Sunshine Coast Council?
The Sunshine Coast is a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve and one of Australia's most dynamic and prosperous regional economies. This role provides the chance to shape the region's narrative, champion strategic opportunities, and lead high-impact communication and advocacy initiatives in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic & Paralympic Games and beyond.
Council Offers
* Significant strategic influence at an executive level
* A collaborative and purpose-driven organisational culture
* Strong alignment to sustainability, community wellbeing and organisational excellence
* Outstanding lifestyle benefits across one of Australia's most desirable regions
Apply Now:
For a Confidential Discussion, Contact
Adrian Holder – Lead Consultant, Public Sector People
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Applications close Sunday 18th January 2026 at 11:00pm AEST.