Moree Plains Shire Council is seeking a Senior Media and Communications Officer to lead strategic communications, media engagement and public messaging across the Shire. This is a key, high visibility role working closely with the Mayor, General Manager and senior leaders, helping to build strong community confidence and connection, protect and enhance Council’s reputation, and ensure clear, consistent communication across major projects, community priorities and day to day operations. If you are a confident communications professional who can balance strategy with hands on delivery, and who thrives in a fast paced public facing environment, this is a great opportunity to make a genuine impact in regional NSW. The Role As the Senior Media and Communications Officer, you will lead the development, implementation and evaluation of Council’s communications initiatives, supporting Council’s strategic plans and objectives and promoting the Shire as a great place to live, work, invest and visit. You will manage media relationships, provide high level strategic media advice, and prepare media briefings, statements, talking points and responses for senior leadership. You will also oversee digital platforms, create high quality written and visual content, and support communications during incidents, emergencies and time critical situations. Key Focus Areas Developing and delivering strategic communications plans, campaigns and messaging aligned to Council priorities Managing media enquiries, building strong media relationships, and supporting proactive media activity Providing communications support and advice to the Mayor and General Manager, including briefings and key messages Supporting community participation through clear, consistent communication and monitoring public sentiment Leading communications during emergencies and critical incidents as part of Council’s emergency management team Overseeing Council’s website and social media channels, ensuring content is current, professional, engaging and aligned with best practice Producing and managing high quality content across digital, written and visual formats while maintaining brand consistency Evaluating communications outcomes against KPIs and maintaining communications governance frameworks Collaborating across the organisation and with external agencies to deliver strong communication outcomes About You To be successful, you will bring Tertiary qualifications in communications, marketing or public relations, or equivalent senior level experience Strong strategic thinking and the ability to set clear objectives and deliver outcomes Exceptional writing, editing and proofreading skills with high attention to detail Strong verbal communication and experience writing for diverse audiences Confidence handling sensitive issues and exercising sound judgement with confidentiality Hands on capability with photography and video, including producing and editing professional content Experience managing corporate social media channels and websites Strong digital skills and proficiency in design and publishing tools such as Adobe Creative Suite or equivalent A self motivated approach and the ability to work independently and as part of a team You will also need Working With Children Check NSW Ability to complete required pre employment checks Desirable White Card Local Government ministerial or brief writing experience Why Join Moree Plains Shire Council This is a rare opportunity to step into a trusted, influential communications role with real community impact. You will work with engaged stakeholders, support major initiatives that shape the region, and help Council deliver clear, professional and consistent messaging to the community. Next Steps Apply now, or contact Simon Rutten, Director at Verve Partners on 0447 718 446 or email simon@vervepartners.com.au for a confidential conversation.
