Operations & Communications Manager

About RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven

Regional Development Australia Illawarra Shoalhaven (RDAIS) is a government-funded regional advocacy group. Collaborating with local stakeholders and covering Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Shoalhaven, and Jervis Bay Territory, RDAIS drives economic development and investment. Governed by a local board, it aims to foster an economically and culturally dynamic region aligned with Australia's Regional Investment Framework.

Role Overview

The Operations & Communications Manager is a versatile, central role ensuring the smooth operation of RDAIS. This position entails managing daily office functions, financial administration, supporting executive leadership and the board, coordinating strategic initiatives, and enhancing the organization's external communications through digital and media channels. The successful candidate thrives in a small team, excels at balancing priorities, and is passionate about impactful regional development projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily operational tasks including office systems, technology, supplies, and recordkeeping to maintain efficient workflows.
• Deliver comprehensive executive support to the CEO and Board Chair such as scheduling, correspondence, and travel coordination.
• Maintain office registers, subscriptions, IT platforms, and inventories regularly.
• Utilize Microsoft 365 and Monday.com to track tasks and project progress, ensuring adherence to deadlines.
• Assist in developing and implementing Work Health & Safety policies in partnership with the CEO.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing workplace culture.
• Oversee financial administration tasks including invoice processing, accounts payable/receivable, and accurate bookkeeping using Xero.
• Support audit processes and ensure compliance with legislation and funding requirements.
• Assist budget preparation and acquittal for projects and operations.
• Provide secretarial support to the Board and governance bodies, including preparing agendas, taking minutes, tracking actions, and maintaining governance documentation.
• Coordinate strategic taskforces and regional bodies through stakeholder engagement, meeting facilitation, documentation, communications, and tracking of work programs.
• Manage and update RDAIS's digital platforms such as website, social media (LinkedIn and Facebook), and email newsletters.
• Create engaging, brand-consistent content aligned with organizational priorities and campaigns.
• Maintain and implement a communications calendar coordinating events and announcements.
• Draft media releases, statements, and reactive communications in cooperation with the CEO.
• Monitor regional media coverage and provide summaries to leadership.
• Support advocacy efforts by preparing public-facing materials including submissions.
• Provide project coordination support for multiple strategic and funded initiatives, including logistics, scheduling, stakeholder engagement, and reporting.
• Coordinate workshops, forums, and roundtables ensuring seamless event execution.
• Review and edit reports, presentations, and templates to uphold quality standards.

Desired Outcomes

• Efficient office operations with well-maintained systems, records, and resources supporting a positive team culture.
• Accurate and timely financial administration in Xero with proper handling of invoices and expenses.
• Effective deadline management across projects using Monday.com and Microsoft Planner.
• Professional secretariat support delivering clear agenda, minutes, and action follow-ups for Board and taskforce meetings.
• Updated and compliant WHS and operational procedures.
• An active, consistent digital presence reflecting RDAIS's mission and activities.
• High-quality, timely communications and media relations supporting the organization's profile.
• Proficient coordination of public events with professional stakeholder interaction.

Required Skills and Experience

• Proven background in operations, communications, or executive assistance, preferably in small/medium or nonprofit organizations.
• Strong written communication skills capable of producing diverse content formats from social media to official papers.
• Experience in financial administration, particularly with Xero or similar accounting software.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Able to prepare professional reports, board documents, and meeting materials.
• Effective interpersonal skills and ability to manage relationships collaboratively.
• Capacity to manage multiple projects concurrently and deliver quality results on time.
• Familiarity with Microsoft 365, Monday.com, Xero, Canva, and other digital tools.

Additional Information

• Position is full-time on a contract basis located at Innovation Campus, North Wollongong with dedicated parking.
• The role provides a dynamic work environment contributing directly to regional growth initiatives.