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Position title: Head of Strategic Communications
Location: Office in Barton, ACT
Reporting to: Deputy CEO
Direct reports: 1-2
FTE: Full-time (37.5 hours per week)
7 month contract (minimum) maternity cover - possibility of extension
About IPAA
The Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) ACT is a member-based organisation, empowering and inspiring public sector professionals to do great work.
We are not-for-profit and non-partisan. We provide members with a platform for debate and discussion about improving and striving for excellence in public administration in Australia through thought leadership, events and networking opportunities.
What we offer
Opportunity to work with a dynamic team in a supportive and collaborative environment
Professional development and growth opportunities
Access to IPAA leadership events and training and development programs
Networking opportunities
Flexible working hours with options to work from home on some days where appropriate
A day in the life
A typical day as the head of strategic communications might start with a review of recent public sector news, gathering data and information to tailor our next event or podcast for IPAA ACT’s public sector audience. You might then go on to consult with the deputy CEO and CEO on the design of an upcoming event or podcast before writing a design brief or podcast script and working with the events team on managing logistics. Throughout the day, you will collaborate and support the communications officer, who produces content and leads marketing for IPAA ACT’s brand and programs.
On other days, you might be attending an event or podcast recording, preparing social media or marketing copy. In the afternoon, you could be working on a communications strategy for an upcoming event, mapping out audiences, messages, and channels.
Throughout the day, you will most likely enjoy one of our plentiful treats in the office and get in some cuddles with some of our furry canine visitors.
Responsibilities
The head of strategic communications is responsible for leading IPAA ACT and IPAA National's communications strategy and design, development and delivery of content, communication and branding activities as well as media engagement. They collaborate with the deputy CEO and CEO on the design of IPAA ACT’s flagship events.
The head of strategic communications works independently and is accountable for the performance of the team to ensure effective promotion, delivery, and support for IPAA. This role manages a small team undertaking a broad range of communication and branding activities.
Key responsibilities
IPAA ACT
Strategic communications and program design
Design, develop and implement tailored communication and brand strategies, plans and reports for IPAA ACT and IPAA National
Design IPAA ACT’s flagship events and Work with Purpose podcast series in collaboration with executive team
Advise the CEO and deputy CEO on the organisation’s communications and brand voice
Build, develop and manage effective relationships with members, partners, and stakeholders
Manage media engagement including preparing releases, pitching interviews and podcasts, crisis communications for IPAA ACT and IPAA National
Team management
Oversee the work of the communications officer and support their development
Oversee other team members’ work in the communications space
Corporate communications
Lead internal communications, eg. annual reports, staff surveys, website design and content
Create event communications to deliver unique experiences for signature events and conferences for IPAA ACT and IPAA National
Measure, report and analyse campaigns’ and promotions’ performance and effectiveness to inform future planning and activities for IPAA ACT and IPAA National
Digital content
Manage social media including strategy and branding to promote events and programs and IPAA ACT’s broader brand
Lead research, scripting and marketing of our podcast series
Oversee conceptualisation and write content such as stories, event summaries and Q&As for IPAA ACT and IPAA National
Oversee the design of reports, edms, publications, and other collateral to support engagement, events, projects, and governance for IPAA ACT and IPAA National
Other duties when required for IPAA National
Collaborate with other IPAA divisions to inform communications for IPAA National
Build networks with communications professionals, L&D contacts, and other key contacts at our member organisations and work with them to promote IPAA
Other duties as required
Skills required
Tertiary qualifications in and/or at least seven years’ professional experience in communications or marketing.
Experience managing a communications team within a dynamic organisation
Ability to develop and advise on communications and branding strategy
Demonstrated ability to manage key stakeholder relationships
Highly developed written and verbal communication skills with accuracy and attention to detail
Ability to professionally represent IPAA with clients, partners, members, and stakeholders
Strong organisational, coordination and prioritisation skills
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills with initiative
Ability to contribute to strategic thinking to support the achievement of IPAA goals and objectives
Experience in technical communications programs including the Adobe Creative Cloud, content management systems and marketing software
Proficient in current online software, including Office 365, Mailchimp, Surveymonkey, and SharePoint.
A genuine interest in the Australian public sector.
Previous experience managing a podcast series is highly regarded.
To apply:
If you’re interested, please submit the following:
resume highlighting relevant experience and qualifications
cover letter, no longer than one page outlining why you’re a great fit for the role, and how you’re keen to contribute to IPAA ACT’s mission of promoting excellence and professionalism in public administration
There is no closing deadline for applications so we encourage you to apply asap.
Please note this role is based in the ACT. While there are flexible work arrangements available, as our membership is largely based in the ACT, there is no option for entirely remote work in this role.
If you have any questions about the role, please contact Wendy Cohen - Deputy CEO.
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