Overview

Work Type: Fixed-term - Full-time

Salary: $142,790 - $166,938

Grade: VPS 6

Occupation: Consulting and strategy

Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs

Reference: VG/1938060

Join the VEC as a Senior Engagement Manager and lead programs that strengthen public understanding of, and participation in, Victoria’s democracy. In this strategic leadership role, you will oversee education and outreach initiatives, develop the VEC’s 2027-2030 Engagement Plan, and build meaningful partnerships that improve electoral participation among diverse and underrepresented communities.

- Full time, Two year fixed term contract
- VPS Grade 6.1 ($142,790 – $166,930 plus superannuation)
- Supportive, inclusive and high-performing work culture

Why join us
At the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) we are not just about elections, we are about enabling all Victorians to actively participate in their democracy. The VEC conducts state and local council elections and is responsible for promoting public awareness and understanding of electoral issues in the Victorian community. Our goal is to be change ready and responsive to legislative changes and community expectations in a dynamic and complex operating environment.

We provide a values driven workplace culture with a passion for excellence and innovation in the services we provide. We offer a supportive environment that encourages professional development and provide opportunities to broaden your experience though internal working groups and committees across VEC branches.
to make a meaningful contribution to the democratic process.

About this opportunity
The Senior Engagement Manager at the VEC is responsible for overseeing education and outreach work across the Public Engagement Branch.



The aim of this branch is to increase public understanding of, and involvement in, the democratic process, particularly among groups identified as facing barriers to involvement in the electoral process. This role creates meaningful connections between stakeholders and communities to ensure high level collaboration to improve electoral participation of traditionally underrepresented groups.

What you will be doing
Reporting directly to Director of Public Engagement, this role will be responsible for:

- Leading the development of the 2027 – 2030 Engagement Plan, with measurable outcomes aligned with our broader objectives
- Manage and support public engagement team members to design and deliver evidence based education and outreach programs that support strategic priorities
- Oversee operational planning, reporting, budgeting and workforce resourcing, ensuring effective governance, compliance and delivery against key performance indicators
- Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders

What you will bring to the role

- Proven experience in developing and implementing policies, frameworks and operational plans that deliver organisational objectives.
- Extensive experience designing and evaluating complex programs, using research, data and best practice approaches
- Project management experience including planning, risk management, budgeting and resource management
- Excellent communication and people leadership skills,



with the ability to influence, prepare high quality reports and lead teams
- Commitment to the VEC's core values

How to apply
All applicants must submit:

- a current CV and
- a separate document with responses to Key Selection Criteria (KSC) 6.2, 6.3, 6.4 and 6.5 as listed in the position description.

Applications should be lodged online via the Apply Now button. The VEC can only accept applications lodged via Victorian Government Careers website.

Applications close at 11:59pm on Sunday 9 August 2026.

We highly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities and culturally and linguistically diverse people to apply.
We are committed to dive rsity and inclusion in our workplaces with the people we employ, and at the ballot box with the people we serve. We aim to create a workplace that is inclusive, equitable, and safe for all.
We understand that candidates may need adjustments in the recruitment process and/or workplace. For any questions or request for accommodations, please e-mail [email protected]
Successful applicants will be required to satisfy character clearance requirements, including but not limited to Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) and working with children check.
In accordance with Section 17A of the Electoral Act 2002, the VEC may ask applicants to disclose specific political activities that could compromise the perceived independence of the organisation. Learn more about disclosing political activities.

VEC contact details
For further information please contact Athalia Zwartz, [email protected] or on 0436 009 746

Applications close Sunday 9 August 2026 at 11.59pm

Posted

24 July 2026

📌 Senior Manager, Engagement (Melbourne)
🏢 Victorian Electoral Commission
📍 Melbourne