Are you a strategic communications leader who thrives in complex environments and enjoys developing high‐performing teams?
At Port Macquarie Hastings Council, communication is key to how our community connects with, understands, and trusts Council. We are seeking an experienced
Communications Manager
to lead our corporate communications function and drive a contemporary, customer‐focused approach across the organisation.
In this role, you will provide strategic leadership across communications, media, reputation management, campaigns, digital channels, content, and brand. Working closely with Executive leaders and teams across Council, you will ensure communications are clear, consistent, accessible, and responsive to community needs.
You will also lead and develop a talented team, fostering a positive, accountable culture and creating an environment where people can perform at their best.
If you're a collaborative leader who can provide trusted advice, navigate complexity, and turn strategy into meaningful communication, we'd love to hear from you.
About You
You will be an experienced communications qualified andpeople leader who combines strategic thinking with a practical approach todelivery.
You will bring:
demonstrated experienceleading and developing a communications team, including buildingcapability, managing performance, and creating a positive and accountableteam culture
significant experiencein strategic and corporate communications, media, public relations,reputation management and contemporary communication channels
strong judgement and theability to provide clear, trusted advice to senior leaders, particularlyon complex, sensitive or high-profile matters
demonstrated experiencemanaging communications during emerging issues, crises, or periods ofsignificant organisational or community change
highly developedwritten, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the abilityto communicate complex issues clearly for different audiences
strong stakeholdermanagement skills and the confidence to navigate competing priorities,challenging conversations, and differing perspectives
relevant tertiaryqualifications in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketingor a related discipline, and/or substantial relevant professionalexperience.
What You'll Be Doing
No two days will necessarily look the same. You may be:
leading and developing askilled communications team, setting clear priorities, and creating anenvironment where people can perform at their best
providing strategiccommunications,



media and reputation advice to Council's Executive andsenior leaders
guiding communicationsfor major projects, organisational priorities, and significant communityissues
leading Council'sresponse to emerging issues and crisis communications, often requiringsound judgement and timely decisions
overseeing Council'scorporate communication channels, campaigns, content, and brand
working with teamsacross the organisation to move from reactive communications towardsstronger forward planning and coordinated campaigns
using data, communityinsights and evaluation to understand what is working and continuallyimprove our communication
Why Join Us?
This is a genuine prospect to influence how a large anddiverse organisation communicates with its community.
You will join us at an exciting time as we establish our newCommunity and Customer Experience Group and continue to strengthen the wayCouncil listens, communicates, engages and connects with our community.
We are looking for someone who brings ideas, curiosity, andsound judgement; who is comfortable challenging thinking respectfully; and whowants to lead a team that delivers communication that is meaningful, useful,and trusted.
Remuneration and Benefits
Employment Type: Full time, Permanent 35 hours perweek
Salary (exclusive of super): Starting in the range of $123,577 to $138,321 depending on skills and experience
Opportunity for performance-based salary progression
This rolealso qualifies for a Leaseback or Vehicle allowance
Flexiblework arrangements - hybrid working and flexi-time
Discounted gym membership throughmembership to Fitness Passport
Candidates relocating to the region have access to TheWelcome Experience
Opportunities for learning and development and internal career progression
Annual salary increase as per theLocal Government (State) Award **** plus annual salary review
Long service leave after 5 years
Generous employee assistance program
Salary packaging options availablethrough Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia
Recognition through our annual awardsceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements
About the Port Macquarie Hastings Region




The region is one of Australia's most enviablelocations. We boast a stunning hinterland, kilometres of pristine beaches,national parks, playgrounds, sporting facilities, restaurants, galleries,theatres and a genuine community vibe. The Mid‐North Coast is perfect forhiking, surfing, camping, fishing, exploration, sports, arts, theatre, food andwine.
Questions?
If you would like to know more about thisopportunity or have any questions about the role, please contact Lucilla Marshall, Group Manager Communities and Customer Service on **************.
Applications Close:Tuesday 29 September **** at 11:30pm
At Port Macquarie-Hastings Council
, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the vibrant community we serve—where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to thrive.
We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or in the workplace, please contact us at
******.
We're here to support you every step of the way.
Notes
Suitable candidates may be placed on an eligibility list for future identical positions for 6 months or a talent pool for similar positions for a period of12 months.
Preferred applicants are required to completepre-employment checks. This may include: Reference Checks; National CriminalPolice Check; Medical Assessment (includes drug and alcohol testing); Qualification verification; Working withChildren Check verification.
PMHC's recruitment notification process isprimarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correctbefore submitting an application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes.Email communication notifications are used for but not limited to: applicationreceived, interview booking tools, confirmation of interview, request for references/moreinformation, delay notifications, testing/assessments(aptitude/psychometric/industry specific) and application outcomes(unsuccessful before or after interview).
Please regularly check your 'junk mail' or ensureour email address ****** and Pulse email
******
is set to 'trustworthy'.
Port Macquarie Hastings Council adheres to theprinciples of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care andprotection of all children and young people.
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📌 Manager Communications (Port Macquarie)
🏢 the original
📍 Port Macquarie