Director of Marketing, Communications, Brand & Media Join one of the world’s most respected cardiac research institutes during a period of growth! Sydney-based | Hybrid | Full-time A rare opportunity to shape, scale and lead a high-impact marketing and communications function, building a powerful global presence that firmly positions VCCRI as a leader in heart health. Impact of the organisation The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute is dedicated to finding cures for cardiovascular disease and is one of the most respected heart research facilities in the world. Renowned for the quality of its breakthroughs, the Institute was established in 1994 and has grown to a team of almost 200 researchers from around the globe, working across five divisions. As a global centre of excellence, the Institute brings together expertise in Cardiac Physiology and Transplantation, Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Molecular Cardiology and Biophysics, Structural and Computational Biology, and Vascular Biology to drive innovations that improve outcomes for patients and their families. At the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, we rapidly translate discoveries into new diagnostics, preventions, and treatments for cardiovascular disease - reducing the incidence, severity, and impact of heart disease globally. An exciting growth phase The Institute is experiencing a significant period of strategic growth and investment in philanthropy, brand and marketing, supported by a highly engaged CEO and Board. Several newly created roles reflect this exciting phase, with a strong focus on national and global impact. New leadership is bringing fresh energy, and we’re building a world-class team to support this mission. There’s never been a more exciting time to join the team at the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute. Impact you will have in this role The Director of Marketing, Communications, Brand & Media is a pivotal leadership role responsible for advancing and elevating VCCRI’s brand on a national and global stage. Reporting to the Chief Advancement Officer, this visionary role leads the development and delivery of integrated brand and communications strategies, oversees media relations, and drives high-impact engagement initiatives that build awareness, trust and influence. At its core, the position is about creating a powerful, front-of-mind presence for VCCRI, ensuring that when people think about heart health, they think of the Institute and its world-leading work. This role is seeking a strategic, holistic thinker who is equally comfortable rolling up their sleeves and delivering outcomes. You will bring a strong track record in growing brands and driving meaningful, measurable results, alongside the confidence to navigate complex stakeholder environments. Working closely with the CEO, senior executive, researchers, clinicians and key internal teams, you will build trusted relationships and translate vision into impact. Key Responsibilities Brand Penetration & Growth Lead and execute a comprehensive brand strategy positioning VCCRI as a national and global leader in cardiovascular research and heart health Oversee brand governance and alignment to core organisational goals Identify and drive brand growth opportunities in new markets and regions Partner with the CAO, CEO, Deputy CEO and senior Faculty and fundraising teams to align brand, advancement and engagement initiatives Media, Communications & Public Relations Lead integrated media and communications strategy across traditional, digital and emerging platforms Build and maintain strong relationships with national and international media Provide media training and coaching to senior leaders and Faculty Oversee consistent messaging, crisis communications and reputation management Content, Storytelling & Performance Marketing Oversee compelling content and storytelling that showcases VCCRI’s impact, values and vision Ensure brand voice consistency across all channels Design campaigns that drive engagement with partners, donors and global audiences Collaborate on multi-channel fundraising and engagement campaigns aligned to key milestones Leadership, Measurement & Reporting Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing marketing, communications and media team Partner across the organisation and with external agencies to deliver high-quality campaigns Establish KPIs and use insights to measure, optimise and report on brand, media and engagement performance Skills and Experience Tertiary qualifications in marketing, communications or public relations 7-10 years’ senior experience in brand, media or communications leadership roles Demonstrated success growing brands at a national and international level Strong expertise in media relations, public affairs and global communications Proven experience leading teams, managing budgets and delivering complex, cross-functional projects Strategic, globally minded leader with strong commercial and analytical capability Exceptional communication, media and storytelling skills Collaborative, confident stakeholder manager Creative and innovative approach to brand growth and engagement Experience with industry-standard CRMs, media intelligence and science communication platforms You will demonstrate strong alignment with the mission and values of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute and a genuine commitment to advancing cardiovascular research. Applications Please apply by uploading your resume. Please direct all enquiries to Kristina Lesko at Impact Advising on kristina@impactadvising.com.au Impact Advising is committed to creating diverse and inclusive work environments that reflect the rich tapestry of our communities. We believe that diversity enriches organisations and fosters innovation. We are dedicated to building workforces that are a representative of the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our society. We embrace diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability, and cultural background. We actively seek to foster inclusive workplaces where all employees can bring their whole selves to work, feel respected and valued, and have equal opportunities for growth and advancement. We are committed to providing a fair and unbiased recruitment process, and we strive to eliminate any barriers that may impede the inclusion and participation of underrepresented groups in workforces.
