Coordinator Communication and Engagement

Are you a highly strategic communications professional ready to move beyond day-to-day operations and drive comprehensive engagement strategies that foster trust and clarity within a thriving regional community? Yass Valley Council is seeking a dedicated Coordinator, Communication & Engagement for this newly created, high-impact position. This pivotal role ensures the strategic flow of information and advice, influencing key decisions made by Council's executive team.

About Us: Escape the daily grind and enjoy a genuine work-life balance just a short drive from Canberra (45-55 mins via the Barton Highway). Embrace a lower cost of living, charming rural life, and access to excellent schools, cool-climate wineries, and modern health services, all while making a tangible impact on a thriving local community! Yass Valley offers a vibrant community lifestyle without the big city stress. We are a growing regional hub with a $50 million annual budget and a fantastic team.

The Opportunity:

• Strategy and Influence: This role requires a leader who can manage multiple communication channels, from digital platforms and social media to traditional media relations and public consultation processes. You will provide strategic advice to the Executive Management Team on high-stakes issues management and communication best practices.
• Strategy & Evaluation: Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of comprehensive communication and engagement strategies across all Council divisions.
• Reputation Management: Manage Council's external media relations, including proactive strategies and crisis communication during high-pressure situations.
• Engagement & Events: Lead high-impact community engagement and events strategies, ensuring alignment with Council policies, coordinating public consultation processes for major projects, and maximising public participation.
• Digital Strategy: Oversee the strategic direction of Council's digital platforms (website, engagement platform, social media) to ensure content is current, engaging, and compliant.
• Performance Leadership: Lead and manage the Communications & Engagement team’s performance and development, building future capability.

About You: Experienced and Agile. We are seeking a professional with a proven track record of managing complexity and delivering strategic communication outcomes.

• Strategic Experience: Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing comprehensive communication and engagement strategies within public or private sectors.
• High-Level Skills: High-level written and verbal communication skills, with a portfolio showcasing an ability to translate complex policies into plain English for public consumption.
• Project Management: Strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines and competing priorities effectively.
• Leadership Acumen: Experience in leading a team in the delivery of exceptional communication, media, events and engagement services.

Eligibility Requirements: To apply for this position, applicants must have the right to work in Australia and pass relevant pre-employment checks. Yass Valley Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds and communities. Council also recognises the skills and attributes of veterans and welcomes applications from ex-service personnel.

The Welcome Experience: The Welcome Experience is a free service for workers and their families who are considering moving to or have moved to regional NSW. Local Connectors make moving easier by helping you find a home, schools, childcare, job opportunities for your partner, and connections within the community.

Salary range starts at $1,739.86 - $1,879.05 per week + 12% superannuation (Grade 17 in accordance with Council's Salary System and the Local Government State Award).