Media & Public Affairs Manager

Media and Public Affairs Manager
Permanent | Full-time | Sydney CBD (Hybrid)
Make a difference with Uniting in our Social Impact and Advocacy team
At Uniting, we believe in a fairer world where everyone can thrive. Every day, across New South Wales and the ACT, our teams walk alongside people of all ages, backgrounds and beliefs, providing care, support and advocacy where it’s needed most. We’re bold, compassionate and deeply committed to driving positive social change — and we’re looking for someone who shares that commitment.
We’re now searching for a strategic, sharp and solutions-focused Media and Public Affairs Manager to help shape and protect Uniting’s reputation and amplify the voices of the people and communities we serve.
Reporting to the Media and Public Affairs Lead, this senior role will see you working at the heart of a collaborative and purpose-driven team, proactively leading media activity that puts Uniting’s work in the spotlight and responds with confidence and care during times of crisis.
What you’ll do
As the Media and Public Affairs Manager, you’ll play a critical role in driving visibility and building trust. You will:

- Work with the Lead to develop and maintain a proactive media calendar that supports Uniting’s strategic goals
- Craft thoughtful, well-researched media releases, holding statements, speeches and editorial content that position Uniting as a leader in social justice and advocacy
- Respond to media enquiries with confidence, professionalism and strategic judgement
- Play a key role in issues and crisis communications, including maintaining issues logs and coordinating responses
- Support internal stakeholders and executives with media advice and guidance
- Provide media and public affairs support to major brand and marketing campaigns
- Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, media outlets and content creators
- Prepare regular media coverage reports for internal stakeholders and executive leadership
- Lead media training sessions and ensure spokespersons are well-prepared and aligned
- Collaborate across teams to create media-ready stories and materials for multiple platforms - including our internal communications channels
- Support the rollout of powerful and engaging advocacy campaigns that drive impact and social change
- Share on-call media phone duties on a rostered basis, including some weekend and after-hours work

What you’ll bring
You’re an experienced and resilient media professional with a strong understanding of the media landscape and a knack for storytelling. You’ll also bring:

- A relevant tertiary qualification and at least 7 years’ experience in a similar role
- Proven experience in crisis and issues management
- Exceptional writing skills across media releases, op-eds, speeches and campaign content
- Confidence in advising senior stakeholders and managing competing priorities with professionalism
- A strategic mindset, with a proactive approach to identifying and seizing media opportunities
- A solid media network and a track record of successful media coverage
- Demonstrated ability to create and deliver integrated media strategies
- Experience working with multimedia producers and developing content across a range of platforms
- A sharp eye for detail, strong organisational skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure
- An understanding of social justice, advocacy and the not-for-profit or government landscape
- A collaborative, flexible and compassionate approach — aligned to Uniting’s purpose and values

**Even better if you have**:

- A journalism background or previous experience in a not-for-profit or public sector media team
- Experience developing and delivering media programs that support social impact campaigns
- Familiarity with digital media and public communications strategies across traditional and emerging platforms

Why Uniting?
At Uniting, you’ll be part of a deeply connected organisation that leads with purpose. You’ll join a highly respected advocacy team, have the flexibility of hybrid working, and play a key role in shaping the public narrative around the vital work we do. Most importantly, your work will have real meaning — helping to build a more just, compassionate and inclusive society.
What We Offer You
- A rewarding career with a leading human services organisation.
- Up to $18,550 NFP salary packaging available.
- Access to our U rewards program with exclusive discounts.
- Flexible work hours for work-life balance.
- Access to Fitness Passport - Live your best life.
- A supportive and inclusive and collaborative work environment.
- Opportunities for professional growth.
- Purchase of additional leave.

**How to apply**: Send your CV and a brief cover letter highlighting why this role appeals to you.
Uniting contributes to the work and mission of the Uniting Church in NSW and the ACT through social justice advocacy, community services and spiritual care. Our purpose is to inspire people, enliven c