Reporting to the Communications Team Lead, the External Communications Specialist is responsible for crafting externally focused communication plans and developing corresponding narrative, messaging and content. Exceptional cross-channel storytelling skills – written, verbal and digital – are a must, along with the ability to convey complex information in simple language.
The External Communications Specialist will skillfully develop awards profiles and submissions that capture Chisholm’s tone of voice, the nuance of sector-specific subjects and the authenticity of the Chisholm community.
The incumbent will have a deep understanding of media strategy, have or be able to develop and maintain strong media relationships, be able to identify media stories and angles, and manage issues and reputation. They will be the primary contact for proactive and reactive local and industry-specific media engagement. They will facilitate ongoing positive relationships and advocacy aligned to Chisholm’s Vision of empowered local communities with global impact.

ABOUT YOU

• You will have a relevant degree and relevant experience, or lesser formal qualifications with substantial experience and specialist expertise or broad knowledge in external communications, media relations and storytelling.
• Demonstrable experience in developing, implementing and evaluating communication plans.
• Highly skilled in narrative-led storytelling within a technical, complex or nuanced environment.
• Exceptional written, verbal and digital communication skills, with high expectations for quality and attention to detail.
• Proven experience developing and implementing media strategy.
• Strong sense of news judgement and editorial quality.
• Ability to follow Chisholm’s brand, tone and writing guidelines.
• Good understanding of data analysis and reporting methodologies.
• A high level of enthusiasm, flexibility, self-motivation, and initiative.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative approach coupled with the maturity to engage effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders from various backgrounds.

ABOUT US
Chisholm is one of the largest vocational training providers in the state with a team of over 1,400 dedicated staff supporting 41,000 students who choose to study at Chisholm and training at our modern campuses across Melbourne’s southeast and online. We partner with governments, educational institutes, and businesses worldwide, sharing our expertise in vocational education.
We offer over 400 courses that include nationally accredited pathways from secondary school programs and short courses, through to certificates, diplomas, and degrees.
At Chisholm, we embrace differences in gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural background, disability, religion, and sexual orientation. We know that diversity and inclusion help us to attract, recruit, engage and retain a team of talented people.
Chisholm has zero tolerance for child abuse and all forms of harm to children. All allegations and safety concerns will be treated consistently in accordance with Chisholm policy and procedure.

WHAT WE OFFER

• An Inclusive work culture – Chisholm is resolutely diverse. We celebrate our people’s unique contributions to achieving our ambition to transform lives through relevant and responsive high-quality education
• Professional Development – continue to grow your career
• Networking Opportunities with Industrial Partners
• State of the art facilities on our campuses
• Free on-site parking as well as locations close to public transport
• Free Employee Assistance Program – get the support you want. It’s confidential.

If this is the job for you, please apply online now. We look forward to receiving your application!

Important information about your application
Your application should include:

• a cover letter
• your resume
• contact details of three (3) referees.

Please note, appointment to this position is subject to satisfactory completion of Safety Screening requirements including:

• Verified copies of qualifications and transcripts as listed in your resume
• Verified current valid Employee Working with Children Check
• Verified copy of unrestricted rights to work in Australia
Verified National Police Check

If you have any questions regarding the position or require further information, please contact Michelle Frenkel, Communications Team Lead by emailing michelle.frenkel@chisholm.edu.au

Applications for this position close at 9am Friday 13 December 2024

We are committed to a fair and equitable merit-based recruitment process for all our candidates. If you have specific accessibility or support requirements please contact our Belonging & Inclusion Lead by emailing ashlea.hey@chisholm.edu.au.

Chisholm reserves the right to withdraw an advertised position at any stage.
Find out more about us by visiting us on our Website and social media sites.