• Premier Victorian health service
• Protect and enhance reputation
• Trusted adviser to the CEO

About the organisation

This organisation stands among Victoria's largest and most complex health services, delivering an extensive range of integrated services, and improving the lives of Victorians every day. With a substantial and diverse workforce, it operates across clinical, research, and academic health service functions, and is deeply embedded in the communities it serves. An employer of choice and at the forefront, this trusted health provider is committed to delivering leading edge health solutions by integrating research, teaching and training into everyday practice.

About the role

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Chief Communications and Public Affairs Officer is a trusted senior adviser and a key figure in protecting and enhancing the organisation's reputation. The appointee will lead and inspire a broad communications and public affairs function spanning media relations, government engagement, internal communications, crisis management, brand, digital and community engagement. Providing trusted counsel to the CEO and executive team on reputational, political, and operational risk, the role will lead the public affairs approach with government, and effectively manage complex, sensitive and high-stakes matters. The role also oversees internal communications across a large, dispersed, and shift-based workforce, and supports organisational change in partnership with clinical and people and culture leadership.

About you

You are a senior communications and public affairs executive with extensive leadership experience in a large, complex organisation. Your background includes advising executives on sensitive, high-risk issues, and you are a credible, composed operator in environments subject to significant public and government scrutiny. An exceptional people leader and stakeholder manager, your expertise spans media relations, issues and crisis management, government engagement, and strategic communications. You are equally comfortable leading a high-performing team as you are providing frank, considered advice at the most senior levels. Experience in healthcare, emergency services, or a similarly regulated and publicly accountable setting will be well regarded. You bring sound judgement, strong political acumen, and the personal resilience that complex, fast-moving environments demand.

How to apply

Click ‘ Apply’ to submit your CV. For more information prior to application, please contact Dalia Klein at SHK on 0401 000 499. Direct and third-party applications will be forwarded to SHK.