Media and Communications Lead

About the Role

Moonee Valley City Council invites applications for a full-time, permanent Media and Communications Lead position within its Advocacy, Communications and Engagement team. This role presents an excellent opportunity to oversee the Council's media relations and storytelling efforts, enhancing public awareness of Council services, initiatives, and community achievements. The position is classified Band 6, with a starting salary of $100,577.59 per annum plus 12% superannuation, commensurate with experience. Benefits include a monthly rostered day off and flexible hybrid work arrangements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the management of media relations by pursuing proactive opportunities and responding to media enquiries promptly.
• Design and execute media strategies aligned with Council priorities to uphold and enhance the organization's reputation.
• Create media releases for cultural venues including the Clocktower Centre and Incinerator Gallery, along with Council festivals and public art programs.
• Coordinate weekly distribution of arts-related media listings to promote Council’s cultural festivals and events.
• Develop diverse communications content such as media statements, speeches, and briefing documents.
• Offer media advice and support to the Mayor, CEO, executive leadership, and internal teams.
• Establish and nurture strong relationships with media professionals and internal stakeholders.
• Identify and publicize positive stories via traditional and digital media channels.
• Support advocacy campaigns through thoughtful communications planning and media engagement.
• Participate in the development and execution of crisis and emergency communication efforts.
• Monitor media coverage, analyze trends, and seek opportunities to boost the Council’s public standing.
• Collaborate internally to highlight Council services, events, and community outcomes effectively.

Candidate Profile

• Possess tertiary qualifications in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field, or demonstrate equivalent professional experience.
• Have proven experience managing both proactive and reactive media relations including press releases and crisis issue handling.
• Demonstrate successful development and implementation of communications and media plans that align with organizational goals.
• Show a solid grasp of media relations, reputation management, and strategic communications across multiple platforms including digital.
• Exhibit excellent written and verbal communication skills with the aptitude to translate complex topics into accessible, engaging formats.
• Experience in crafting media campaigns targeting diverse audiences and platforms.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to foster productive relationships and thrive in collaborative environments.
• Sound political awareness and capacity to provide informed media guidance in sensitive or complex contexts.

Additional Information

Applications must comply with Moonee Valley City Council's application process and include responses to key selection criteria to be considered. For further inquiries about the role, applicants can contact the Senior Coordinator Communications at the Council. The Council is located in Melbourne's northwest metropolitan area and serves around 130,000 residents and 10,000 businesses, employing approximately 1,200 staff. Employees benefit from flexible working conditions, learning opportunities, supportive leadership, and access to local amenities.

Equal Opportunity and Inclusion

The Council fosters a culture of inclusion, celebrates diversity, and supports employees across all stages of their careers. It encourages applications from diverse backgrounds including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse groups, all gender identities, age groups, and individuals with disabilities. Reasonable adjustments and accommodations can be arranged upon request.