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External Communications Lead

The Salvation Army
Full-time
On-site
Australia
πŸ“£ Marketing Communications (MarCom)

πŸ“Œ Core Information

πŸ”Ή Job Title: External Communications Lead

πŸ”Ή Company: The Salvation Army

πŸ”Ή Location: Darwin Regional Administration Office, Winnellie, NT, Australia

πŸ”Ή Job Type: Full-Time

πŸ”Ή Category: Non-profit Organizations

πŸ”Ή Date Posted: 2025-04-14

πŸ”Ή Experience Level: 5-10 years

πŸ”Ή Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

  • Fostering and enhancing The Salvation Army’s connections with community partners
  • Engaging with state and local governments, media, service groups, and community organizations
  • Implementing and monitoring the Communications Portfolio strategy within the Division
  • Strengthening community ties and building positive relationships on behalf of The Salvation Army Australia

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of strategic thinking, relationship-building skills, and strong communication abilities to effectively engage with various stakeholders and enhance The Salvation Army's presence in the community.

πŸ“‹ Key Responsibilities

βœ… Implement and monitor the Communications Portfolio strategy within the Division, ensuring alignment with our mission

βœ… Support the Division with initiatives and opportunities that make a positive impact

βœ… Provide insightful briefings and reports to the Executive Manager, External Communications

βœ… Keep Divisional leadership informed about current activities and significant events in external communications

βœ… Uphold TSA’s brand message and presence through all activities in the Territory

βœ… Develop and nurture relationships with Local, State, and Federal Members to advance our government relations practice

βœ… Lead community engagement activities across the Territory, fostering strong connections

βœ… Collaborate with media organizations and the national Campaign Communications and Media team for proactive and reactive communications

βœ… Support Schools Engagement teams and fundraising activities across the Division

βœ… Establish and nurture external relationships and influential networks to advance our strategic objectives

βœ… Engage proactively with media agencies to present The Salvation Army’s mission and policy positions

βœ… Maintain a key stakeholder relationship database, capturing engagement activities and meetings

βœ… Leverage networks to enhance fundraising campaigns through referrals and media engagements

βœ… Collaborate with the National Events team on the Red Shield Appeal launch and Christmas Thank You events

βœ… Stay aware of TSA’s fundraising needs and refer opportunities accordingly

βœ… Identify and act on grant and funding opportunities in Local and State Government portfolios

βœ… Adhere to relevant government laws and codes of conduct

βœ… Stay informed about issues that may impact the organization and prepare risk mitigation strategies

βœ… Ensure all publication and broadcast activities comply with legislation, TSA policy, and values

ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and project management to effectively communicate The Salvation Army's mission and values across various channels and audiences.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: A Diploma in Business, Marketing, or Public Relations is preferred

Experience: Demonstrated experience working at an executive level

Required Skills:

  • Strong ability to build and maintain relationships at an executive level
  • Preferred experience in media relations
  • Proven public speaking skills
  • Experience in multi-media communications, including CMS, social media, print, and radio
  • Familiarity with the charitable sector

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience in government relations
  • Knowledge of the Northern Territory's political landscape

ASSUMPTION: Given the nature of the role, candidates with a strong background in public relations, communications, or a related field, along with proven experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship-building, will be well-suited for this position.

πŸ’° Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: ANFP salary packaging ($15,900 tax free) plus meals and entertainment benefits

Benefits:

  • Flexible working conditions
  • Financial, retail, and lifestyle discounts and benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program - Independent confidential counselling service
  • Opportunity for career development
  • An inclusive culture of dedicated, passionate, and professional team members
  • Positively supporting and impacting the lives of others through your career contribution

Working Hours: Full-time, 38 hours per week, with flexibility to work additional hours as required

ASSUMPTION: The salary range is estimated based on industry standards for non-profit organizations and the role's requirements. The benefits package is comprehensive and designed to support employees' well-being and work-life balance.

πŸ“Œ Applicant Insights

πŸ” Company Context

Industry: The Salvation Army is a non-profit organization focused on providing social services, spiritual support, and emergency assistance to those in need. They operate in various sectors, including family assistance, rehabilitation services, and youth programs.

Company Size: The Salvation Army has over 10,000 employees worldwide, making it a large organization with a significant impact on communities.

Founded: The Salvation Army was founded in 1865 and has since grown into an international movement, with a presence in over 130 countries.

Company Description:

  • The Salvation Army is dedicated to helping people in need overcome poverty, addiction, and spiritual and economic hardship across the U.S.
  • They provide a wide range of services, including food, shelter, eviction prevention assistance, emergency disaster relief, rehabilitation, after-school and summer youth programs, spiritual enrichment, and more.
  • The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church, with its message based on the Bible and its ministry motivated by the love of God.

Company Specialties:

  • Nonprofit
  • Social Services
  • Family Assistance
  • Rehabilitation Services
  • Holiday Assistance
  • Children's Programs
  • Youth Programs
  • Religious Worship
  • Christian
  • Faith-Based
  • Fundraising
  • Communications
  • Professional Development
  • Advisory Organization
  • Local Services
  • International
  • Public Policy Advocacy
  • Social Justice
  • Anti-Human Trafficking
  • and Nondiscrimination

Company Website: http://www.salvationarmyusa.org

ASSUMPTION: The Salvation Army is a well-established organization with a strong reputation for providing essential services and support to communities in need. Their extensive experience and global presence make them a trusted and reliable employer.

πŸ“Š Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is at the executive level, requiring a high degree of autonomy, strategic thinking, and leadership skills.

Reporting Structure: The External Communications Lead reports directly to the Executive Manager, External Communications and works closely with various teams, including Schools Engagement, Fundraising, and the National Events team.

Work Arrangement: This is an on-site role based at the Darwin Regional Administration Office, with flexibility to work additional hours as required.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Progression within the Communications portfolio or related fields
  • Expansion of responsibilities based on performance and organizational needs
  • Professional development opportunities, such as training and workshops

ASSUMPTION: Given the nature of the role and the organization, there are opportunities for career growth and development, both within the Communications portfolio and across the broader organization.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: The Salvation Army's Darwin Regional Administration Office is a professional and collaborative work environment, with a focus on supporting employees' well-being and work-life balance.

Office Location(s): Winnellie, NT, Australia

Geographic Context:

  • The Northern Territory is a diverse and multicultural region, with a strong focus on community support and engagement.
  • The Darwin Regional Administration Office is centrally located, with easy access to public transportation and nearby amenities.
  • The Territory experiences a tropical climate, with warm and humid weather year-round.

Work Schedule: Full-time, 38 hours per week, with flexibility to work additional hours as required

ASSUMPTION: The work environment is supportive and collaborative, with a strong focus on teamwork and open communication. The location offers a unique cultural experience and the opportunity to engage with diverse communities.

πŸ’Ό Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

  • Online application submission
  • Phone or video screening
  • In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager and/or panel
  • Background check and reference checks
  • Job offer and onboarding

Key Assessment Areas:

  • Communication skills and presentation
  • Strategic thinking and planning
  • Relationship-building and networking abilities
  • Understanding of The Salvation Army's mission and values
  • Cultural fit and alignment with the organization's goals

Application Tips:

  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
  • Demonstrate your understanding of The Salvation Army's mission and the specific requirements of the role
  • Prepare examples of your past achievements in stakeholder engagement, communication, and project management
  • Be ready to discuss your long-term career goals and how this role fits into your professional development plan

ATS Keywords: External Communications, Community Engagement, Stakeholder Relations, Media Relations, Government Relations, Strategic Planning, Non-profit, Fundraising, Event Management, Public Speaking, Multi-Media Communications

ASSUMPTION: The application process is designed to assess candidates' skills, experience, and cultural fit for the role. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong understanding of The Salvation Army's mission and the specific requirements of the position.

πŸ› οΈ Tools & Technologies

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
  • Social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram)
  • Media monitoring and analysis tools
  • Project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello, Microsoft Project)

ASSUMPTION: The tools and technologies required for this role are standard for the communications and non-profit sectors. Candidates should have experience with these tools and be comfortable learning new platforms as needed.

πŸ‘” Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

  • Integrity
  • Compassion
  • Respect
  • Diversity
  • Collaboration

Work Style:

  • Collaborative and team-oriented
  • Adaptable and responsive to changing priorities
  • Results-driven and proactive
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Committed to The Salvation Army's mission and values

Self-Assessment Questions:

  • How have you demonstrated your commitment to The Salvation Army's mission and values in your previous roles?
  • Can you provide an example of a time when you successfully engaged with a diverse range of stakeholders to achieve a common goal?
  • How do you approach balancing strategic planning with day-to-day tasks and responsibilities?

ASSUMPTION: The Salvation Army values candidates who are aligned with their mission, values, and work style. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong commitment to The Salvation Army's cause and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • Managing multiple priorities and deadlines
  • Working with diverse stakeholders, each with their own agendas and expectations
  • Navigating the political landscape and building relationships with government officials
  • Adapting to changes in the organization's priorities and strategic direction
  • Balancing the need for proactive communication with reactive responses to emerging issues

ASSUMPTION: These challenges are inherent to the role and require a proactive, adaptable, and strategic approach to communication and stakeholder engagement.

πŸ“ˆ Similar Roles Comparison

  • Compared to other communications roles, this position has a stronger focus on stakeholder engagement, government relations, and community development
  • In the non-profit sector, this role is unique in its blend of strategic planning, relationship-building, and project management
  • Career progression in this role may lead to senior leadership positions within The Salvation Army or related organizations

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique blend of skills and experiences, making it an attractive opportunity for candidates seeking to advance their careers in the non-profit sector.

πŸ“ Sample Projects

  • Developing and implementing a comprehensive communications strategy for a major fundraising campaign
  • Coordinating a multi-stakeholder event, including government officials, community leaders, and media representatives
  • Managing a crisis communication response to a sensitive issue, ensuring accurate and timely information is disseminated to all relevant stakeholders

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects demonstrate the range of responsibilities and skills required for this role, from strategic planning and execution to crisis management and stakeholder engagement.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • How does this role fit into the organization's long-term strategic plan for communications and community engagement?
  • What are the key priorities for the first 90 days in this role?
  • How does The Salvation Army support the professional development and growth of its employees?
  • What are the most significant challenges facing The Salvation Army in the Northern Territory, and how can this role contribute to addressing them?
  • How does The Salvation Army measure the success of its communications and community engagement initiatives?

ASSUMPTION: These questions are designed to provide insight into the organization's strategic direction, expectations for the role, and opportunities for professional growth and development.

πŸ“Œ Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

  • Submit your application through this link
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
  • Prepare examples of your past achievements in stakeholder engagement, communication, and project management
  • Be ready to discuss your long-term career goals and how this role fits into your professional development plan
  • Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and inquire about the next steps in the process

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.