Strategic Engagement and Communications Officer

Strategic Engagement and Communications Officer role at the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT). The VIT is an independent statutory authority that regulates members of the teaching profession.

The VIT's vision is to ensure that Victorian learners have the best teachers. All our work focuses on raising the quality of teaching, and providing for the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.

We are committed to building an inclusive workforce where the full potential of all employees is reached and our differences are embraced. The VIT supports and enables employees to work safely in a discrimination-free environment and enjoy equal opportunities.

By joining the team at VIT, you will work within a friendly, high-performance culture with a focus on people and their development.

• flexible working arrangements
• consultative leadership team who cares about staff, and actively supports career and professional development
• positive and active social culture
• access to a wide variety of leave options and salary packaging arrangements
• strong commitment to equity, including through a comprehensive Gender Equity Action plan
• mental health and wellbeing initiatives
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• "A grade" office building with 4.5-star energy rating and modern end-of-trip facilities - only minutes from Southern Cross station.

Salary range $106,845 - $129,273 plus statutory super.

This role requires you to:

• develop and implement strategic communication plans that align with organizational goals
• lead the delivery of internal and external communications aligned with strategic priorities
• deliver integrated campaigns that influence and engage diverse stakeholders
• draft media materials, public statements, and responses to media enquiries
• build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including senior executives, government representatives, and community groups
• produce high-quality written materials including speeches, media releases, briefing notes, reports, and digital content; use data and analytics to inform communication strategies
• develop project briefs consistent with business plans and strategic direction
• formulate policy options and advice in area of expertise
• promote VIT's vision, culture and critical activities on social media; monitor and engage in relevant social discussions and contribute to a collaborative and respectful team culture
• represent VIT at events as needed
• undertake other duties as directed by Manager, Stakeholder Engagement and Communications Branch

As an experienced strategic engagement and communications professional, you will have knowledge of accessibility standards for digital content, strong copywriting skills, and an approach that ensures inclusive and impactful communication across diverse audiences. You will have experience in leading multi-channel content strategies, managing production for online platforms, and delivering high-quality stakeholder communications, with a passion for child safety and experience in education or government environments preferred.

You will have strong written communication, stakeholder engagement and project management skills, a highly organised approach, and a proven track record in brand positioning and integrated communications planning. You thrive in dynamic environments and can turn insights into action. You will have:

• experience developing and implementing strategic communication plans that align with organizational goals and delivering integrated campaigns
• ability to produce high-quality written materials and to communicate complex ideas clearly
• experience in media relations, including drafting materials and responding to enquiries
• ability to build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• strong organisational skills to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• familiarity with digital tools and platforms, including websites, social media, and email campaigns; understanding of analytics
• initiative and adaptability; commitment to integrity, inclusivity, and collaborative culture
• tertiary qualifications in Communications, Public Relations or related discipline, or equivalent workplace experience

Please submit your resume and cover letter (no more than 2 pages) addressing the key selection criteria outlined in the position description.

To discuss this role further, please contact Manning Fell, Branch Manager, Stakeholder Engagement and Communications Team on (03) 8601 6164 or by email at Manning.Fell@vit.vic.edu.au.

Our recruitment and selection process is based on public sector employment principles and will include key elements such as merit-based decisions, equal employment opportunities, objectivity, and privacy obligations during the process.

Shortlisted applicants may be asked to submit to assessment tools and pre-employment screenings, including consent to a nationally coordinated criminal history check.