Assistant Director, Communications and Engagement

About the role

The Assistant Director, Communications and Engagement leads the Department for Child Protection’s communications strategy, shaping public understanding and protecting the department’s reputation. This senior position reports to the Chief Executive and provides advice to senior leaders, including the Minister.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic communications advice to senior executives and the Minister.
• Lead the department’s response to emerging issues, sensitive matters and high‑profile media attention.
• Oversee media, digital and community engagement, ensuring content is contemporary, engaging and tailored to diverse audiences.
• Guide multidisciplinary teams and projects to deliver clear, timely messaging.

Required profile

• Extensive experience leading strategic communications, media or corporate affairs in a large organisation.
• Strong understanding of government and ministerial environments with proven senior‑level advisory capability.
• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills, able to influence and build effective relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to manage reputation, issues and stakeholder engagement.

Required skills

• Strategic communications planning.
• Media relations and digital content management.
• Reputation and issues management.
• Leadership of multidisciplinary teams.