Director of Communications and Public Engagement

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

About the organisation
The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Corporation (NATSIEC) was formed from over 40 years of leadership by the six state and two territory Indigenous Education Consultative Bodies (IECBs). Incorporated in August 2023 under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006, NATSIEC is led by an expert Board of Directors.

As the peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education, NATSIEC provides independent, evidence-based advice to Australian governments. Their focus spans national education policies, programs, and Closing the Gap efforts, ensuring a strong, community-controlled voice in decision-making. NATSIEC’s work covers the full spectrum of learning, from early childhood to higher education, maintaining deep connections with the education sector across the nation.

About the role
The Director of Communications and Public Engagement at NATSIEC plays a vital role in shaping the organisation’s public image and ensuring clear, strategic communication with key stakeholders. This role involves providing expert advice to the CEO and board on media strategies, developing and executing a comprehensive media and communications plan, and managing NATSIEC's media presence across various platforms. The successful candidate will oversee media content creation, foster relationships with external stakeholders, and manage digital platforms, including the website and social media. Additionally, the role includes contributing to corporate branding and coordinating events that enhance NATSIEC's profile.
For a full list of responsibilities, please contact Pipeline Talent at [email protected]  

About you
To be successful in this role, you will have a strong understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, communities, and networks, as well as the challenges affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly in education and training. Your expertise in the media landscape, digital communications trends, and project management will enable you to deliver impactful messages across multiple platforms. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with the ability to engage with diverse audiences, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and government stakeholders, are essential.

Key Selection Criteria

1. A sound knowledge of Aboriginal culture, community and networks and an understanding of the issues that affect Aboriginal people particularly in education and training.
2. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, and the proven ability to communicate effectively with Aboriginal people and with a wide range of audiences including relevant Government staff, peak bodies and service providers.
3. Relevant qualifications in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field and have 5+ years of experience in media and communications, ideally in the non-profit or Aboriginal community-controlled sector.
4. Demonstrated project management and coordination skills with the ability to deliver impactful messages across various communication channels.
5. Strong understanding of the media landscape and digital communications trends.

Additional Requirements

• Responding to Abuse and Neglect – Education and Care course completion (or be prepared to complete this free, online course if you are successful).
• The successful applicant must be able to pass a National Police Check. Any unrelated offences to working with children will not hinder your application.
• A willingness to travel interstate.
• Candidates without all criteria but with relevant experience are encouraged to apply.

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to make an impact and lead change by forming part of a small, passionate team shaping and advocating for education policy for First Nations Australians.
• An attractive salary. NATSIEC is also in the process of acquiring NFP status and should be able to offer salary packaging soon.
• Exceptional personal and professional development opportunities.

How to Apply
All applications must be submitted in writing and include the following:

• Current CV (maximum five pages)
• A cover letter or pitch (maximum two pages) connecting your capabilities with the key selection criteria of the position.

Applications are to be submitted via the Pipeline Talent website below and will close 11:59pm Sunday 20 October 2024. Unfortunately, late submissions will not be accepted.

How to get more information
For further information on the position, please contact Pipeline Talent via phone or email for a confidential discussion.

Jay Knapp - Senior Recruitment Consultant
[email protected] | [email protected]
Mobile: 0438 981 457 | Phone: 02 8001 6603