The City of Parramatta is going through unprecedented change and transformation as we grow and transform into a Global City. The intensity of growth and investment in City of Parramatta means that Council, their partners, and community have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the City's future and ensure it is culturally, socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable.

About the role

We are seeking a strategic, politically astute, and highly motivated professional to join the Office of the Lord Mayor & CEO. In this pivotal role, you will provide expert public policy and advocacy advice, while shaping and strengthening the Lord Mayor's engagement with key stakeholders across government, community, and business sectors.

You will be at the forefront of high-level communications, stakeholder relations, and strategic initiatives-ensuring the Lord Mayor's vision is effectively communicated and supported through compelling content, meaningful engagement, and sound policy advice.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic advice and high-level support to the Lord Mayor and General Manager, Office of the Lord Mayor & CEO.
• Lead the planning and delivery of Mayoral activities, ensuring a high standard of professionalism, responsiveness, and stakeholder engagement.
• Develop impactful communication materials including speeches, briefings, thought leadership pieces, and correspondence that reflect the Lord Mayor's priorities and voice.
• Represent the Lord Mayor and GM at key events, forums, and community engagements.
• Conduct research and policy analysis to support Council reports, strategic initiatives, and executive decision-making.
• Collaborate with the media and communications team to manage emerging issues and promote a positive public image of Council.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and guidance to team members to ensure excellence in service delivery and stakeholder engagement.
• Prepare high-quality briefing notes, position papers, and coordinate research projects on complex public policy matters.

About You

• Tertiary qualifications in political science, public policy, economics, business administration, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years' experience in a senior advisory or strategic communications role within a politically sensitive environment.
• Proven ability to influence and build trusted relationships at senior levels, with a strong track record of delivering results in high-pressure settings.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with experience crafting speeches, briefings, and strategic documents.
• Demonstrated expertise in public policy development, stakeholder engagement, and issues management.
• Strong leadership and team-building capabilities, with a collaborative and solutions-focused approach.
• A current NSW Driver's License is essential.

What's on offer

This is a 6 month term contract. This position is a Grade 18 from $149,428 to $165,645 plus 11.5% superannuation.

In addition City of Parramatta also offer excellent employee benefits which include:

• A range of flexible work arrangements including hybrid WFH arrangements
• 14 weeks paid parental leave
• Access to Long Service Leave after 5 years
• Central Parramatta location (Public transport at our door, discounted parking)
• Significant leave benefits (up to 12 days flexi-time, 3 additional leave days at Christmas, 15 days sick/personal leave, 2 days health and wellbeing leave per year)
• Learning and development opportunities
• Health and Wellbeing programs (Fitness Passport, flu shots, etc.)

Want to know more?

Further information regarding the requirements of this role can be found in the attached Position Description. If you are interested in the role, please apply by submitting your resume and a brief cover letter, outlining your interest and suitability for the role by 4pm 6th June 2025.

The City of Parramatta supports a Drug and Alcohol-free working environment and employees may be subject to random testing as a result.

This position requires the preferred candidate to undergo a Criminal History Records check. A criminal history does not necessarily disqualify a prospective candidate from selection.

Inclusion, Diversity and belonging lies at the heart of how we recruit at the City of Parramatta. We continue to commit to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and hire great people with a wide variety of skills, experiences, and backgrounds. We invite candidates of all ages, people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, women, ADF veterans, LGBTIQA+ and other culturally diverse groups. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a positive, barrier-free recruitment process and supportive workplace.

Please note you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or a permanent resident or have unlimited working rights in Australia to apply for this position.