Executive Director

Executive Director, Communications and Engagement

• Lead Strategic Communications
• Melbourne based Executive Leadership Role
• SPEEEC 5 Year Fixed Term

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 3100 committed team members who are up to the challenge.

About the role

We're on the lookout for an innovative and strategic Executive Director, Communications and Engagement to join our Executive Leadership Team. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role is pivotal in shaping V/Line's public voice, brand reputation, and stakeholder relationships—both internally and externally.

You'll lead a high-performing team responsible for media, public affairs, internal communications, digital content, and community engagement. You'll also work proactively with the CEO's office, the Department of Transport and Planning, and Ministerial media teams to ensure VLINE brand is clear, consistent, and aligned with our strategic direction.

Key accountabilities include:

• Leading the development and execution of V/Line's communications and engagement strategy
• Establishing and promoting V/line brand and voice
• Managing media relations, crisis communications, and reputation management
• Driving internal communications that support culture, change, and alignment
• Building strong relationships with government, industry, and community stakeholders
• Advising the CEO and Executive Team on emerging risks, opportunities, and public messaging
• Act as custodian of the corporate brand and champion customer engagement across all channels.
• Championing a culture of proactive engagement and continuous improvement
• Leading and mentoring a passionate team of communications professionals

About You

You're a seasoned communications leader with a strategic mindset, political acumen, and a calm, collaborative approach under pressure. With deep expertise in media, public affairs, and stakeholder engagement, you thrive in complex environments and inspire high-performing teams to deliver impactful outcomes.

Our ideal candidate will possess the following:

• Strategic Leadership in Communications: Proven experience leading organisation-wide communications and engagement strategies, aligning messaging with business priorities and enhancing brand reputation.
• Executive-Level Advisory Capability: Demonstrated ability to provide high-level strategic advice to CEOs and executive teams, particularly in complex, high- risk, and politically sensitive environments.
• Media and Public Affairs Expertise: Strong background in media relations, crisis communications, and reputation management, including experience across digital, social, and traditional media platforms.
• Stakeholder and Community Engagement: Deep experience in developing and executing stakeholder engagement strategies, with the ability to build trust and maintain relationships with government, industry, and community partners.
• Internal Communications and Culture Building: Track record of leading internal communications that support employee engagement and organisational change, fostering alignment with organisational values and vision.
• Team Leadership and Development: Demonstrated ability to lead high-performing teams, drive innovation, and support professional growth in fast-paced environments.
• Analytical and Performance Measurement: Ability to establish metrics and reporting frameworks to evaluate communications effectiveness, with a commitment to continuous improvement and data-informed decision-making.

Why V/Line

• 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.

We are committed to ensuring a comfortable and accessible recruitment experience. If you need any adjustments or have specific accessibility requirements at any stage of the process, please contact our Talent team at for confidential support.

As an equal opportunity employer, V/Line is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace and network that reflects the communities we serve. We accept and value the contributions of all our employees regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, age or disability. We are also proud to be endorsed by Work 180 as a great place for women to work, second year in a row.

We proudly acknowledge First Peoples of Victoria. We acknowledge their ongoing strength in practicing the world's oldest living culture. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners' lands, waters, and skies on which we live and pay respects to their Elders past and present.

At V/Line, safety is our priority. Successful applicants will undergo relevant pre-employment and medical checks to meet our safeworking standards.

Applications close: 28th October

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