Chief Corporate Affairs Officer

Our client has an exciting senior role with national presence.The Chief Corporate Affairs Officer is a strategic leadership role responsible for managing and overseeing the firm’s corporate communications, public relations, government relations, and stakeholder engagement.The role requires a skilled communicator, adept at navigating complex issues and building relationships with key stakeholders, including regulators, media, investors, unions and the broader community. Location: Ideally this role will be placed in Melbourne, however, there is flexibility for the position to be based in Sydney.Interstate travel is likely to be required from time-to-time.Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership:Develop and execute the corporate affairs strategy in alignment with organisational goals.Provide counsel to the CEO, executive leaders, senior leaders, and other departments on corporate reputation, crisis management, and external communications.Corporate Communications:Oversee all internal and external communications, including press releases, speeches, social media, and media interviews.Lead the creation of key messaging and ensure consistency across all channels.Act as the primary spokesperson for the organisation when interacting with the media and other external stakeholders.Government Relations & Advocacy:Cultivate and maintain relationships with government, industry bodies, and regulatory agencies.Advocate in relevant policy and regulatory matters.Monitor and analyse relevant political, regulatory, and public policy trends.Public Relations & Media Management:Develop and maintain strong media relationships.Lead communication efforts to ensure timely and effective responses to sensitive or high-profile issues.Oversee the management of public relations campaigns, events, and sponsorships.Stakeholder Engagement:Build and manage relationships with key external stakeholders.Lead corporate social responsibility initiatives and community engagement efforts.Ensure effective internal communications within the organisation, fostering a culture of transparency and alignment.Issues Management:Develop and implement communication plans.Lead the response to any reputational or regulatory challenges, ensuring swift and strategic action.Serve as a key advisor to the leadership team during critical moments.Team Management and Development:Oversee the professional development of team members, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to succeed. Skills, Competencies, Qualifications and Experience:Education / Qualifications / Memberships: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Political Science, Business, or a related field (Essential)Master’s Degree (preferred) Experience:Minimum 10 years of experience in corporate communications, public relations, or a similar field.Proven experience in managing corporate affairs at a senior level, ideally within a large or complex organisation.Strong understanding of public policy, regulatory environments, and government affairs.Extensive experience working with senior executives, media, and government stakeholders. Skills and competencies:· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.· Strategic thinker with the ability to manage multiple, complex initiatives.· Strong leadership and team management abilities.· Issues management expertise.· Ability to navigate and influence across various organizational levels and external stakeholders.· High level of integrity, with a commitment to ethical communications and transparency.You will also be:Proactive: A self-starter who takes initiative and anticipates potential challenges.Resilient: Able to thrive under pressure, especially in high-stakes situations.Influential: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively with diverse stakeholders.Adaptable: Capable of adjusting quickly to changing environments and priorities.Applications Close: Friday 2 May 2025