Director, Public Affairs

• Victoria University is hiring: Director Public Affairs
• Footscray Park Campus Victoria University
• Senior executive role Reporting to the Chief of Staff Office of the Vice-Chancellor

Shape reputation Influence debate Advance impact

Job Summary:

Victoria University (VU) is seeking a bold and strategic communications leader to establish and lead our Public Affairs function as Director Public Affairs. This is a rare opportunity to sit at the heart of the Vice-Chancellors portfolio and help position VU as an influential voice in tertiary education public policy and industry through highimpact media advocacy and thought leadership.

Aligned to VUs Strategic Plan Start well finish brilliantly this role will play a central part in strengthening trust shaping narrative and building social licence enabling our students staff and partners to thrive in rapidly changing environments.

About VU:

At VU we aim to be one of the leading impact universities in the world. VU is an impactdriven university committed to equity excellence and opportunity. Based in Melbournes west and connected globally we put students first through the VU Block Model dualsector pathways and strong industry partnerships. We are a valuesled inclusive workplace where diverse talent is supported to make a real difference.

About the Role:

As Director Public Affairs you will provide senior leadership in media public affairs and corporate communications to advance the Universitys reputation and strategic objectives. You will be a trusted advisor to the Vice-Chancellor Executive and senior leaders on reputational issues crisis management and strategic communications.

Position Key Duties

In this role you will:

• Lead highimpact public affairs strategy across media social media and public affairs to promote VUs achievements impact and distinctive dualsector identity.

• Drive thought leadership and advocacy positioning VU as an influential voice in tertiary education public policy and industry.

• Provide expert reputational and crisis communication advice including building capability and preparedness across leaders and teams.

• Identify and respond to emerging issues monitoring policy developments and external trends to enable proactive and agile communications.

• Strengthen VUs social licence developing messaging that reinforces public trust and positive societal impact.

• Elevate internal communications ensuring staff are informed engaged and aligned with strategy while building confidence in channels and ways of working.

Salary: Attractive remuneration package including an employer superannuation contribution of up to 17%
Employment Type: Senior Staff Contract available for a period of 5-years
Hours: Full time 36.75 hours per week
Location:Footscray Park Campus(hybrid with flexibility to work across VU locations as required)

For a detailed overview of the roles duties and responsibilities please refer to the Director Public Affairs.

About You:

You are a highly credible politically savvy and astute leader who can operate confidently in complex environmentsbalancing proactive narrativebuilding with calm decisive crisis responses. You bring strong judgment influence and the ability to build trust at the most senior levels.

You will bring:

• Extensive senior experience in strategic communications media relations public affairs and corporate communications.

• A proven record of delivering thought leadership and advocacy strategies that build influence in tertiary education public policy and/or industry.

• Demonstrated success identifying emerging issues shaping compelling narratives and engaging stakeholders across media industry and community to build reputation and trust.

• Advanced crisis management negotiation and stakeholder engagement capability with confidence advising on reputational risk.

• Datainformed communications leadership using performance indicators and analytics to evaluate and continuously improve outcomes.

• A commitment to service excellence collaboration innovation and people leadership.

The University is a Child Safe willbe requiredto hold a current Working with Children Check (WWCC) or be willing to obtain one prior tocommencingemployment.

Who to Contact

For further information relating to the position please contact Tara Schuurmans Chief of Staff email

Ready to lead VUs public voice

Please submit:

• Your curriculum vitae/resume
• A cover letter addressing the essential and desirable criteria (no more than three pages)

Applications will close Sunday 22 March 2026 at 11:55pm

This advert may close earlier should a suitable candidate be identified. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this role requires for applicants to have full and permanent working rights in Australia.

Why Join VU

VU provides competitive salaries excellent superannuation and a variety of benefits. The university fosters an environment where staff can excel achieve their goals and develop their careers. With a focus on diversity inclusion and family-friendly policies VU supports both professional and personal well-being. For more information please visit ourCareers at VU Webpage

Our Commitment to Protecting Country

Victoria University honours its deep diversity as a foundation for collaboration and social progress. We will demonstrate sensitivity in respecting First Nation perspectives. We will ensure that we respect our Indigenous voices and commit to sustainable Protecting Country. We will take leadership responsibility in all that we do to improve the health and wellbeing of our local and global communities and the planet that we share.

Our Commitment to Progressive Inclusivity

VU is an equal opportunity employer and proudly committed to progressive inclusivity. We welcome and celebrate diversity in all its forms including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples people with disability culturally and racially marginalised communities LGBTQIA individuals and people of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds. We strive to reflect the communities we serve and foster an inclusive respectful and supportive environment where everyone feels they belong. We are proud to be aWGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality.

Our Commitment to Inclusive Recruitment

VU is committed to providing a positive and barrier-free recruitment experience. If you require adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process including accessible formats of documents please contact us ator call (03).