Head of Internal Communications 12mth parental leave (Sydney or Melbourne)

• 12mth parental leave cover - Flexibility for immediate start
• This is an exciting new era for Mallesons - King & Wood Mallesons Australian and Chinese partnerships have agreed to formally separate. From 31 March 2026 we will be known as Mallesons in Australia the go-to independent top tier firm in this market.
• In parallel the firm is gearing up to launch its 2030 strategic plan a 5 year blueprint for growth.
• This role presents a rare opportunity to be part of this exciting challenging and rewarding period. This senior role with leadership responsibilities will shape the employee experience and optimise the way we inform engage and align our people around the firms strategic priorities and future direction and instil confidence and optimism through this time of change.

Who are we

We help our clients manage their risk and enable their growth. Our full-service offering combines un-matched top tier local capability complemented with an international platform.

We have deep roots in Australia spanning almost 200 years and acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional owners and custodians of these lands and waters.

Role Detail

Reporting to the Director of Communications as a senior member of the Communications team you will lead the Internal Communications function implement a firm-wide internal communications strategy act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders and deliver a broad range of internal campaigns.

With the separation taking place plus the firm wide 5 year strategy ready to roll out this role offers an ability to influence culture at scale helping define identity purpose and engagement during a period of transformation.

You will have an opportunity to shape the employee experience and optimise the way we inform engage and align our people around the firms strategic priorities. Additionally this role will provide critical support to the Director of Communications on strategic projects and team engagement.

With flexibility to be based in Sydney or Melbourne this role is critical to the employee experience and will be responsible for ensuring our internal communications are coordinated and impactful; will provide strategic advice to senior leaders within the business on best practice communications to achieve their project objectives; and will lead and develop a first-class team of internal communications professionals.

Key to the role will be:

• Developing a multi-channel internal communications strategy which will ensure our people are equipped with the right information through the right channels to perform their roles
• Identifying opportunities to drive employee engagement and advocacy in line with business objectives
• Supporting the Director of Communications in the development and execution of communication strategies ensuring alignment with internal communications efforts
• Assisting in the execution of communication initiatives and other projects from time to time providing insights and recommendations to enhance effectiveness and engagement
• Identifying opportunities to optimise the firms internal communication channels and platforms
• Developing internal communication campaigns for key strategic projects and initiatives
• Providing best practice communication advice to senior stakeholders
• Monitoring analysing and reporting on performance of internal campaigns and initiatives
• Centralising coordinating and streamlining internal communications activities across the firm
• Developing content and channel guidelines for content owners across the business
• Coaching and developing direct reports and members of the broader team to support their career and nurture their development while ensuring appropriate resource allocation and prioritisation of projects

About You

This parental leave cover will see you lead a team during a time of rapid change - Your ability to adapt communication strategies to meet the needs of a diverse workforce will set you up for success however your point of difference will be your aspirational leadership style that is collaborative built on trust and one that maintains morale and performance during a time of transformation.

With an ability to move seamlessly between strategy and hands-on delivery you will also need:

• 10 years in internal communications or change communications with demonstrable experience at a senior level
• Ability to maintain a steady presence to guide the team through various changes and projects.
• Proven ability to design and execute enterprise-wide change communications
• Demonstrated ability to execute communication campaigns
• Strong narrative development skills turning complexity into clarity
• Ability to build relationships and influence key stakeholders
• Experience leading and motivating a team with varied skillsets and experience
• Demonstrated ability to coach mentor and role model for fellow members of the team
• Project management and time management skills
• Experience working with SharePoint and Eloqua (preferred)
• Capacity to multi-task and a flexible proactive attitude
• A proactive approach to identifying needs and taking initiative.
• Comfortability with change and an ability to operate independently

Next Steps

Please click Apply Now to apply online with your cover letter summarising why youre applying and your resume to support your experience.

Applications close COB Thursday 5th February 2026.

If you have any questions or need any further information please dont hesitate to reach out to Bridget on 02).

If you are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident you must hold all visas and other approvals necessary for you to work for the firm in Australia.

Why work with us

We promote a collaborative culture where people feel respected valued and supported both personally and professionally and where diversity and inclusion also play an important role in enhancing our knowledge driving innovative solutions for our clients and creating positive social impact.

We live by our Principles and strive for mastery in all that we do. We take pride in the high quality work we deliver. Working with colleagues and clients who are leaders in their fields means the ability to explore new paths to progress with continual learning and development career and leadership opportunities.

As part of the KWM community youll have access to a suite of wellbeing initiatives benefits policies and processes to enable you to achieve your career goals.