About us

Southern Cross University is a dynamic, ambitious institution focused on its purpose of changing lives through revolutionary learning and research with real impact. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper learning experience, improving individual student outcomes, quality of life and a better way to learn. Our world-ranked research is driving positive impact for our communities, environment and economy.

Working at Southern Cross University combines a rare combination of being surrounded by ambitious students, dedicated colleagues and an environment of stunning natural beauty. We are leaders in our communities in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Coffs Harbour and the Gold Coast and pride ourselves on helping shape a better tomorrow.

About the opportunity

The Digital, Marketing and Communication team is a dynamic unit responsible for managing the University’s brand, messaging, and reputation. Their work supports key areas like student recruitment, outreach, alumni relations, and advancement, aligning with the University’s strategic goals. They highlight the University’s transformative teaching and impactful research, working closely with various departments across the institution.

Southern Cross University is seeking a Senior Manager, Strategic Communication. You will lead efforts to elevate the Southern Cross profile locally and globally through the design, development and delivery of a comprehensive communication strategy. This role involves developing systems and processes for media, crisis communications, internal communications, and content across all channels, while advising senior University leaders with politically astute and strategic counsel. Your core responsibilities will include:

• Lead the development and execution of strategic, integrated communication plans across paid, earned and owned channels to strengthen the University's position, increase awareness, attract diverse students and enhance relationships with government, industry and employers.
• Use data-driven insights to inform content marketing strategies, improve channel performance, and align messaging with institutional goals and stakeholder needs.
• Research and evaluate communications strategies to strengthen the university’s competitive position.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including leadership, digital, and design teams to deliver impactful messaging that supports recruitment, research promotion, and public engagement.
• Provide leadership and supervision to the communications team, fostering a culture of growth, recognition and accountability while managing team performance, capacity, and professional development.
• Oversee communication budgets and agile response planning, ensuring resources are effectively allocated and strategies remain adaptable in a dynamic environment.

About you

As the Senior Manager, Strategic Communications, you will provide strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate complex, competing priorities. More specifically, you will have:

• Extensive experience in marketing, communications, or related fields, supported by a relevant postgraduate qualification or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven ability to lead and deliver integrated communication and public relations strategies that align with institutional goals and enhance reputation.
• Exceptional strategic communication skills, including advanced writing, editing, storytelling, speechwriting, crisis communication, and digital marketing across multiple channels.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing high-performing teams, with a collaborative approach to performance planning, supervision, and team development.
• Strong interpersonal and written communication abilities, with sound judgement and the ability to communicate complex issues clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

Salary and benefits

Our staff benefit from flexible work arrangements, including hybrid work models, generous parental and carer’s leave provisions, wellbeing initiatives, employee assistance programs and professional learning opportunities. This position is:

• Full-time continuing (permanent)
• Located at either Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450, Gold Coast, QLD 4225, or Lismore, NSW 2480.
• HEW Level 10. The base salary ranges from $137,628 - $155,609 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $182,062.

Find out more about working at SCU by visiting Why Work at SCU.

Application requirements

Applicants must apply online and attach a CV and cover letter responding to the selection criteria within the position description by the closing date. Information to support you prepare your application is available on our website. If you experience difficulties applying online or need reasonable adjustments at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know by contacting [email protected].

Job applicants must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, Australian permanent resident or currently hold a visa with ongoing work rights in Australia. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Further information

To view the full position advertisement and details of the application process, please click on the APPLY button where you will be redirected to the Southern Cross University website.

Closing Date: 11.30pm AEDT, 30 April 2025

Southern Cross University is committed to ensuring that the University reflects the rich diversity across the region in which the University’s campuses are located.

The University encourages applications from people of all ages, women, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people, people living with disabilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and people who are LGBTQI+.

We encourage applications from people with disability and will provide adjustments to the recruitment process upon request.

Together, we are Transforming Tomorrow.