External Communications Manager

Job description

ABOUT US The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity. About the Role: We are seeking a skilled and motivated External Communications Lead to join our Communications team and play a crucial role in supporting The Salvation Army’s diverse initiatives nationwide. This is a permanent, full-time, position based in Darwin Regional Administrative Office . Purpose of the Role: The External Communications Lead exists to create and connect The Salvation Army’s links to community partners, focusing on areas such as territory and local government, territory and local media, service groups and community organisations across the breadth of society. The role is accountable for territory-based community engagement initiatives and will provide support and collaboration in Communications portfolio activities. This role’s remit is to lift community connections and build and maintain positive relationships on behalf of the Salvation Army Australia. Key Roles and Responsibilities: Lead the implementation of The Salvation Army’s Communications strategy across the Division, ensuring alignment with mission, vision, and brand. Provide strategic communications advice, briefings, and updates to Divisional and Territory leadership. Build and maintain influential relationships with Local, territory, and Federal Government stakeholders to advance organisational objectives. Drive community engagement initiatives that strengthen The Salvation Army’s presence and impact across the Division. Develop and manage media relationships, partnering with national communications teams on proactive and reactive media activity. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to support fundraising campaigns, schools engagement programs, and major organisational events. Identify and leverage strategic partnerships, networks, and opportunities that support advocacy, fundraising, and mission outcomes. Maintain key stakeholder engagement records and provide insights that inform government and community relations activities. Monitor emerging issues, reputational risks, and public interest topics, developing appropriate mitigation and response strategies. Ensure all communications, publications, and media activities comply with legislation, organisational policies, values, and industry standards. Education and Qualifications Required: Diploma in Business, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related discipline (preferred). Demonstrated experience engaging and influencing at executive and senior leadership levels. Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to develop trusted partnerships across stakeholders. Media relations experience, with a proven ability to represent and promote an organisation effectively (preferred). Confident public speaker with experience presenting to diverse audiences. Experience across multiple communication channels, including content management systems (CMS), social media, print, and radio (preferred). Understanding of the not-for-profit or charitable sector would be highly regarded. Requirements of the role: National Police Check Valid Drivers license Working with Children’s check What we offer As a registered NFP we offer our eligible employees real and meaningful benefits such as; NFP salary packaging ($15,900 tax free) plus meals and entertainment benefit ($2,650) Flexible working conditions Health, fitness and financial discounts / benefits Paid parental leave - 12 weeks Up to 8 weeks leave per year through our purchase leave scheme Up to 5 days paid leave per year to ‘volunteer’ in a TSA program or activity Purpose driven career which has positive social and sustainable outcomes Employee Assistance Program - Independent confidential counselling service, opportunity for career development; An inclusive culture of dedicated, passionate and professional team members Positively supporting and impacting the lives of others through your career contribution. About us The Salvation Army (Salvos) is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, the Salvos are always there providing support, safety, community, and opportunity. How to apply If you’re passionate about making a difference and ready to join a team dedicated to creating positive change, please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your alignment with the requirements of the role. Together we can build a brighter future. Applications will close as soon as a suitable candidate is secured. The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value and include people of all cultures, languages, abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions and intersex status. We are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check. We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration.