About the role

Parks Victoria is seeking an experienced and values-driven Engagement and Partnerships Manager to lead meaningful engagement, communications and partnerships across the Gippsland region. This senior leadership role is central to strengthening relationships with Traditional Owners, communities, volunteers, partners and stakeholders, while ensuring clear, inclusive and accessible communication that supports the management and enjoyment of some of Victoria's most diverse and iconic landscapes.

About the role

 You will lead a multidisciplinary team delivering:

• Strategic and deliberative engagement with Traditional Owners, communities, volunteers and partners
• Regional communications, strategic messaging, issues management and media liaison
• Place-based visitor information, interpretation and education programs that promote Gippsland's natural and cultural values
• Partnerships that deliver positive environmental, cultural and community outcomes

You will be a key member of the regional leadership team, working closely with operational leaders to ensure engagement and communications are integrated with on-ground delivery and regional priorities whilst leading and developing a high-performing, collaborative and inclusive team.

About you

You are a strategic and trusted leader with extensive experience in stakeholder engagement and communications in complex environments. You bring:

• Proven experience leading deliberative, place-based and inclusive engagement initiatives
• Strong communications capability, including guiding or working closely with communications professionals
• Demonstrated ability to build and sustain effective partnerships with Traditional Owners, community groups, government and non-government organisations
• A commitment to cultural safety, self-determination and respectful engagement with Traditional Owners
• Well-developed people leadership skills, with experience building capability, fostering positive culture and delivering results
• Sound judgement, governance awareness and the ability to manage risk, resources and competing priorities

Tertiary qualifications in communications, engagement, public policy or a related field are required. IAP2 certification or equivalent is highly desirable.

Why join Parks Victoria in Gippsland?

Gippsland offers a unique opportunity to work across spectacular coastal, forest, alpine and marine environments, alongside passionate communities and partners. This role provides the chance to make a tangible difference to how parks are managed, experienced and protected — now and for future generations.

Parks Victoria supports flexible working arrangements and is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and supportive workplace.

Organisational Commitments

Parks Victoria is committed to child safety and has zero tolerance for child abuse and all forms of harm to children, in accordance with the Victorian Child Safe Standards. All prospective employees to undergo a National Police Record Check and Working with Children Check prior to commencing employment.

Parks Victoria recognises diversity and inclusion is everyone's business. We value a culture where everyone can be themselves at work, regardless of background, orientation, age or gender.