Communications Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Centre for Humanitarian Leadership (CHL) is an award-winning partnership between Save the Children Australia and Deakin University. Established in 2011, CHL combines academic rigor with humanitarian practice, supporting crisis and humanitarian leaders in over 90 countries through accredited and non-accredited academic courses in multiple languages. The organization champions humanitarian action that centers on the agency of affected communities, respects diverse perspectives, elevates local actors, and furthers social justice.

Job Overview:
In this full-time permanent role, the Communications Manager will be an integral part of the CHL team in Melbourne, working to create lasting change for children globally. The role involves ensuring that CHL’s marketing, events, and communications are strategic, timely, and influential, thereby driving the Centre’s mission to strengthen humanitarian leadership and amplify diverse local voices. The Communications Manager will lead the Communications Strategy and collaborate closely with Save the Children, Deakin University, and partner teams to effectively reach key audiences and elevate CHL’s research, programs, and impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications Manager will be responsible for leading strategic marketing, communications, and partnerships, shaping CHL’s visibility, messaging, and stakeholder engagement across partner organizations. This includes producing and overseeing high-quality content, publications, and promotional materials that align with CHL’s strategy, programs, and brand. The role also involves driving media engagement and thought-leadership opportunities, translating research and advocacy into accessible public-facing outputs. Additionally, the Communications Manager will plan, promote, and support the delivery of major conferences and events, collaborating with internal teams and ensuring compliance with relevant procedures. They will oversee CHL’s digital presence, including social media and website management, utilizing analytics and content planning to strengthen reach and impact. Furthermore, the role includes managing brand governance, reporting, workflows, and supplier relationships while supporting continuous improvement in CHL’s communications and marketing practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should have a deep expertise in developing and delivering communications strategies, campaigns, and high-quality written content. They should be skilled in managing WordPress websites and producing engaging social media content across multiple platforms. A strong background in brand management and ensuring consistency across digital and print channels is essential. Proven capability in planning and executing major events, including webinars, seminars, and conferences, is also required. The ideal candidate will be a highly organized, detail-focused professional with strong awareness of the humanitarian sector and excellent time-management skills. Additionally, experience in video editing and familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite or other design software such as Canva is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The position requires a relevant degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or a related field. Advanced qualifications or certifications in these areas would be advantageous, as they would enhance the candidate's ability to perform effectively in this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in communications, marketing, or public relations, ideally within the humanitarian or non-profit sector. A proven track record of developing and implementing successful communications strategies and campaigns is essential, along with experience in managing high-profile events and engaging with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the role requires high-quality written communication. Proficiency in additional languages would be considered an asset, particularly languages relevant to the communities served by CHL.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time permanent position based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. The salary range for this role is between $105,000 and $116,000, which is equivalent to Deakin HEW 7 banding, along with full salary packaging benefits. The organization offers additional leave options to ensure employees can perform at their best. The Centre for Humanitarian Leadership is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates and ensuring a supportive environment for all employees. All employees are required to undergo a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check, and must adhere to the Child Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct.