Strategic Adviser, Communications & Engagement

About this role

About the role: 

• The Strategic Advisor leads a small team responsible for providing high level executive advice and support to the Chief Communications Officer (CCO) on a broad range of issues and projects. The role provides strategic and operational supports to the CCO, the Executive team and broader branch.
• This is a fast paced and varied role, requiring significant government business acumen.
• Working closely with the CCO, the Strategic Adviser provides high-level executive and project support including strategic advice, horizon scanning, forward planning, preparing high quality documents and presentations, developing critical internal relationships, and implementing strategies to enable the achievement of branch priorities and the effectiveness of branch operations.
• The Strategic Adviser leads a small team (the Directorate) that is the central coordination point for the Communications and Engagement branch. The Directorate delivers the operational requirements of the branch across administration, recruitment, finance, risk, procurement, sponsorship and reporting requirements.
• This role is central to good governance and oversees systems and processes that support the branch to be effective.

About us: 

At the Victorian Department of Health we want a future where Victorians are the healthiest people in the world. A Victoria where our children and people thrive, our workplaces are productive and safe, and our communities are more connected.  

We see it as our job to support Victorians to stay healthy and safe. And to deliver a world-class healthcare system that ensures every single Victorian can access safe, quality care that leads to better health outcomes for all. 

How you'll make a difference:

• Provide high level executive advice and support to the Chief Communications Officer (CCO) on a broad range of issues and projects by monitoring and responding to incoming issues, anticipating requirements, and providing recommendations on courses of action.
• Provide a range of high-level supports to the CCO and Executive team including:
• implementing strategies to enable the achievement of key strategic priorities and the effectiveness of branch operations
• managing risks and issues
• undertaking forward planning and horizon scanning
• embedding contemporary ways of working across the branch
• managing and coordinating key corporate and governance requirements across the branch.
• Lead a small team (the Directorate) that delivers the operational needs of the branch across administration, recruitment, finance, risk, procurement, sponsorships and reporting requirements.  
• Develop and maintain relationships with key internal stakeholders including the Executive team, other Divisions and the Office of the Secretary.
• Prepare and quality control executive-level speaking notes, stakeholder briefs, emails, presentations, papers, briefings and reports incorporating information from across the branch and other areas of the Department.  
• Represent the branch on operational internal committees and meetings.

Suitable applicants will be able to demonstrate:

• A tertiary qualification in fields related to public administration or business management would be desirable. 
• Demonstrated understanding of the public service and the operation of government or a similar complex business environment.

To learn more please click ‘Apply' to view the Position Description on the Careers.vic website. 

What we offer: 

• The opportunity to perform meaningful work, making direct contributions toward enabling Victorians to be the healthiest people in the world.
• A wide range of growth and development opportunities within the department and wider Victorian Public Service & Sector.
• A strong commitment to work-life balance, including a diverse array of flexible working arrangements.

How to apply: 

Applications should include a resume and a cover letter. Click the ‘Apply' button to view further information about the role including key contact details and the advertisement closing date. 

We are committed to developing and supporting a workforce that is well equipped and highly motivated to provide responsive and quality services to all Victorians. We continue to build an inclusive workplace that embraces diversity of backgrounds and differences to realise the potential of our employees for innovation and delivering services aimed at enhancing the lives of all Victorians. All roles can be worked flexibly and we encourage applications from Aboriginal people, people with disability, LGBTIQ+ and people from culturally diverse backgrounds. Please contact us if you require any adjustments to participate in the recruitment process at inclusion@health.vic.gov.au. For more information on our commitment to inclusion and diversity see inclusion and diversity at the Department of Health.

Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and other pre-employment checks. Information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence in line with our Privacy Policy. 

The Jobs and Skills Exchange (JSE) Recruitment Policy allows for priority consideration for employees who apply through the Jobs Skills Exchange (JSE) jobs board platform. As such, these employees are strongly encouraged to submit their application through the JSE.