Head of Communications

Better and fairer care.  Always.

St Vincent's has been a leader in Australia's health and aged care landscape for more than 165 years. Since our founders, the Sisters of Charity, opened our first hospital in 1857, our services and nearly 30,000 people have been behind some of Australia's most important medical breakthroughs. We are a microcosm of Australia's health and aged care system and are uniquely positioned to lead and respond to our rapidly changing environment.

We are looking for a special kind of person - a St Vincent's kind of person. Someone who puts excellence, compassion, connection and caring for other people at the heart of everything they do. 

As the Head of Communications – St Vincent's Health Network Sydney (SVHNS), you will report directly to the National Director of Communications and Brand with a dotted line to the CEO of St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, and will be responsible for shaping and executing strategic communications for St Vincent's Health Network Sydney.

You will be a trusted advisor to the Sydney Executive team, providing high-level strategic counsel while working hands-on to drive both internal and external communications. This role involves leading a small team and supporting key responsibilities such as internal communications, executive messaging, staff forums, and digital content. You will also work collaborate across the broader Public Affairs and Communications function including digital and social media teams to ensure a unified voice and aligned messaging.

This is an exciting new opportunity to work across our Sydney health network on a permanent full time basis. There may be a requirement to work outside standard business hours occasionally as part of this role.

Key responsibilities of the role:

• Lead Strategic Communications: As a trusted advisor to the CEO and Executive Team, provide high-level strategic counsel that shapes the future of St Vincent's Hospital Sydney. Develop and execute a comprehensive communications strategy that drives both national and local priorities.
• Cultivate a High-Performing Team: This is an opportunity to lead, mentor, and empower a small, dynamic team. You will set a clear vision, support professional growth, and foster a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Drive Collaboration and Alignment: Play a pivotal role in creating a unified voice across the organisation. By actively collaborating with colleagues in media, advocacy, digital, and marketing, you will ensure our messaging is consistent, impactful, and aligned with the One St Vincent's narrative.
• Influence National Strategy: As a senior leader within the Public Affairs and Communications (PAC) team, your work will directly contribute to delivering St Vincent's national strategy. You will be a key part of a multi-jurisdictional communications function that works to advance our mission on a national scale.
• Navigate Sensitive Issues: Work closely with the broader team to handle sensitive issues and support executive communications. Showcase your expertise in a dynamic, high-pressure environment, protecting and enhancing the hospital's reputation in New South Wales.
• Shape Our Digital Presence: Oversee and innovate our internal and external digital channels, including working closely with our Social Media Manager to bring our stories to life. From the intranet and website to executive messaging and staff forums, you will have a direct hand in shaping how our community stays informed and connected.

Things that work for us:

• Demonstrated experience in communications, media, or corporate affairs, with proven success in a senior strategic communications role within a complex organisation.
• Extensive experience advising and partnering with CEOs and senior executive teams on high-level communication strategies.
• Experience in developing and implementing integrated communications strategies in a dynamic, high-pressure environment.
• Professional qualifications in a relevant field, such as a bachelor's degree in communications or media.
• Experience in managing a team is advantageous

Things that work for you:

• Ability to visibly see your impact on the business and its service
• Competitive salary packaging options
• Discounted private health insurance
• Employee Assistance Program for staff and their families
• Access to the Fitness Passport (FP)

At St Vincent's we value inclusivity and diversity and acknowledge the importance of creating a work environment that is welcoming, safe, fair and impartial and invites people from all backgrounds to join us.

Pre-Employment Checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all required pre-employment checks, including relevant immunisations.

Equal Opportunity

We celebrate diversity & inclusion and are committed to equal employment opportunity for everyone.

How To Apply

Please submit your application via the Apply button, include your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and suitability.

At St Vincent's we acknowledge the importance of creating a work environment that is welcoming, safe, equitable and inclusive for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Employees. As part of our Commitment to Reconciliation and Closing the Gap in employment related outcomes, we encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

For further information, visit or get in contact at

View Reconciliation Action Plan

View Code of Conduct