WA Local Government Association

Manager Media and Communications

Manager Media and Communications

Full-Time

Total Package $188,720.26 per annum (inclusive of superannuation)

• Be the voice of WALGA - generate press outcomes that make an impact

• Find the angles - translate policies and initiatives into compelling narrative and sellable stories

• Use your interpersonal and influencing skills to liaise with the media, State and Federal Government, Media Officers and Local Government Communication experts.

Chief Storyteller over the holiday break? We need you 24/7.

If you’re across the media, you’ve probably heard our current Manager Media and Comms is moving back to radio. That’s not because he didn’t love this job. He’s still wearing the WALGA t-shirt with pride.

Sometimes we need to do what’s in our heart, and we support that here at WALGA – so if getting news on TV, stories in the press or our people on radio is what revs you up, then read on.

At WALGA, an important part of what we do is advocating to the State and Federal Government on behalf of Local Governments. That means we deal with some of the most pressing issues affecting WA and the lives of people that live in our beautiful State.

2024 was a huge success for the Media and Comms team, generating significant PR relating to our State Election priorities and for current and emerging issues. But it’s not over yet. Leading up to the State and Federal election, this is a key time to take this role and forge more press outcomes going into the election period and beyond.

As if this wasn’t exciting enough, we’ve just built our very own content studio. A brand new (big) space to create videos, hold interviews and generate content that will set us apart. We’ve just started kitting it out, so this will be something the new Manager Media and Communications will get to own and make a success.

What does a typical week look like?

If you’re a Comms or Media professional, you know the score. We have planned cyclical comms from quarterly publications to weekly e-news and daily socials, but in between there’s breaking news to comment on, press releases to draft and emerging advocacy issues to generate interest in.

So, there is no typical week, it’s just a normal life in media and comms, but with the pride and excitement of getting Local Government issues in front of decision makers and pitching stories in a way that will get our voice heard.

Who will you be working with?

The Advocacy portfolio comprises of a Marketing, Events and Comms team with an internal Graphic Designer and dedicated Content Producer. A team of 11, we get on brilliantly, know when to work independently or when to come together to really pull out all the stops. Whether it’s an Event, Marketing Campaign, design piece or PR campaign, we love taking every task to the next level and have humble swagger when people say, ‘that was the best ever’.

With three talented team members driving outcomes and supporting the Manager Media and Communications, you'll have every opportunity, support, and resource, to thrive in this role.

As well as liaising within the Advocacy portfolio, this role is a key member of the Management team and will interact across all sectors of WALGA.

Enough about us. Let’s talk about you.

It goes without saying that you’ll be experienced across internal and external communications, a talented writer, have strong media connections with a thorough knowledge of the legislation and professional ethics relating to media and communications. With the right initiative and creative mindset, you’ll be used to picking up the phone and knowing who to call to solve a comms problem. Attention to detail and time management skills are also critical.

We need someone that can liaise with people from all backgrounds and at all professional levels with a natural ability to build relationships. For our team – that’s the most important part. We love our upbeat, collaborative approach and need someone that will add to our can-do, high-bar vibe.

Why you’ll love working here

In addition to this rare opportunity, you’ll also get 6 weeks’ (30 days) annual leave and an extra day to celebrate your work anniversary every year. We understand that everyone has a life outside of work, so in the same way that media is round the clock, we provide our employees with a range of flexible working options too.

We pride ourselves on offering a safe and inclusive culture with fantastic workplace benefits and entitlements, including setting budget aside for professional development. What we are most proud of is getting the chance to work on niche projects, with some incredibly talented people, on issues that matter.

WALGA's HQ in West Leederville is centrally located within easy reach of public transport, bike paths and paid parking options. We also provide excellent end of trip facilities for those arriving by alternate methods of transport. Our Thrive wellbeing program means you’ll get to enjoy regular activities and initiatives (in fact we could be at a healthy mind seminar or a enjoying a fitness initiative whilst you’re reading this.) We also have a book club, trivia nights and an active social club run by our employees to cater to all interests, as well as being a menopause friendly employer.

Apply now

Roles like this don’t come along often, so if this sounds like the impact you’ve dreamt of, apply now.

The closing date for applications is 12.00pm, Tuesday 28 January, but please note, we reserve the right to commence interviews and close the position early.

To view the position description and apply please visit our careers page or, if you have questions or are keen to discuss the role in more detail, please contact Executive Manager Advocacy, Rachel Horton on (08) 9213 2038.

Applications via email will not be accepted.

WALGA encourages people from different backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and people with disabilities.

As this role is being sourced directly by WALGA, we respectfully request no agencies approach.

To find out more about WALGA, please visit www.walga.asn.au