Head of Stakeholder Relations

Business Unit:
**Corporate Affairs**
- Function:
**Corporate Affairs**
- Job Code:
**704486**

**Head of Stakeholder Relations**
- Lead strategic stakeholder engagement
- Drive community impact
- Hybrid opportunity (3 days per week in office, Melbourne CBD based)
- V/Line’s purpose is to connect Victorians through safe, reliable, and accessible transport. We believe in giving all Victorians opportunities through travel and transport - connecting them to jobs, education, family and friends, services, tourism and trade._
- V/Line is experiencing significant growth and we’re delivering more services, more trains, cheaper fares, and huge projects. With more than 3700 weekly train and coach services, an expansive freight network and unprecedented rail investment, millions of Victorians depend on us to deliver. You could be one of our 3000 committed team members who are up to the challenge._

**About the role**

As the Head of Stakeholder Relations at V/Line, you will play a pivotal role in deepening V/Line’s relationship with key government, community and industry stakeholders and partners, and managing stakeholder issues in support of V/Line’s objectives and reputation. Working closely with internal stakeholders and the Director of External Affairs, you will contribute to V/Line's stakeholder and positioning strategy, driving the organisation's objectives for the customers and communities we serve.

Key responsibilities include:

- Strengthening relationships with key stakeholders and partners.
- Working closely with V/Line’s valued community partners and demonstrating V/Line’s active involvement in the community.
- Serving as a trusted advisor on stakeholder issues and concerns.
- Influencing stakeholders to support V/Line and government objectives.
- Contributing to responses for government and parliamentary information requests.
- Collaborating with government departments and agencies on joint initiatives and events
- Keeping senior leaders informed about stakeholder and community sentiment.

**About You**

To excel in this role, you will need strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to build and maintain relationships, influence others, and navigate sensitive issues. Your ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively will be essential.
- **Stakeholder Management**:Proven ability to build buy-in and support from key stakeholders, resolve sensitive issues diplomatically, and manage complex relationships.
- **Communication Skills**: Excellent interpersonal communication skills, including strong writing, oral, and editorial abilities, and confidence in presenting to groups.
- **Organisational Skills**:Highly organised with well-developed time management skills and experience working at a strategic level.
- **Government and Policy Understanding**: Experience in a senior stakeholder role within a government organisation and a broad understanding of the Victorian transport policy setting and landscape.
- **Qualifications (Desirable)**: Tertiary qualifications in public relations, communication, or stakeholder relations

In addition to **free myki travel**, we offer:

- **Community impact -** Make a genuine difference. Work in a role that connects Victorians, every day.
- **Huge potential -** We’re transforming, and you can too. Be a change maker, recognised for your contribution and creativity.
- **Dynamic environment -**V/Line operates in a constantly changing space. Join a fast-paced and exciting organisation.
- **Collaborative team -** You’ll be part of a broader supportive team. Surround yourself with talented, passionate peers.
- **Flexible working -** We support flexible working. Work in a way that supports you to thrive in your role.

**How to Apply**

The recruitment and selection process may include aptitude assessments, behavioural and/or technical interviews and employment references.

Successful applicants will be required to undergo pre-employment screening including, probity (police) checks, medical assessment, and Australian entitlement to work. Employees of V/Line are required to maintain a valid Working with Children Check Victoria (Employee) for the duration of employment.
- V/Line is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and we welcome applicants from any background. We value diversity and are continuously working towards creating a flexible and inclusive environment that is representative of the Victorian community._

Applications Close**:Tuesday 17th December, 2024