A$146K – A$154KSeniorFull Time
Full time, 2-year fixed term opportunity
Opportunity to shape University‑wide communications for a high‑profile transformation program and influence how change is experienced across a large, complex organisation.
Base Salary $146,197 - $154,260 (HEO9) + 17% superannuation
About the opportunity
We are seeking an experienced Senior Communications Specialist to lead the development and delivery of strategic, audience‑driven internal communications for a major University transformation program.
Reporting to the Program Director, this role plays a critical part in shaping how change is communicated across the University. You will develop and implement high‑quality communications strategies, manage key channels, and create compelling content that engages staff, senior leaders and diverse stakeholder groups. Working with a high degree of autonomy, you will provide expert advice and creative solutions in a complex, fast‑paced environment.
Your key responsibilities will be to:
develop and deliver internal communications and change communication strategies aligned to program objectives
build and maintain a clear, overarching program narrative to ensure consistent messaging across all channels
producing high‑quality communications materials including newsletters, executive briefings, governance papers and SharePoint content
engage with large and diverse stakeholder groups, tailoring messages to different audiences and levels of impact
partner with Corporate Communications and Branding teams to ensure materials align with organisational standards and brand guidelines
own and manage program communications channels and regular publications
support executive forums, all‑staff communications and organisation‑wide engagement activities.
About you
You are a seasoned communications professional with extensive experience delivering strategic internal communications in large, complex organisations. You are confident working autonomously, advising senior stakeholders, and translating complex information into clear, engaging and actionable communications.
You will bring:
significant experience in senior‑level internal communications or change communications roles
exceptional written and verbal communication skills across a range of formats
strong stakeholder engagement and influencing capability, including experience working with senior leaders
demonstrated experience managing communications channels and content calendars
experience using Content Management Systems (such as SharePoint) and digital communication tools
strong visual storytelling skills and a high attention to detail
experience in the higher education sector or a similarly complex environment (desirable)
Please note: As part of the application process, applicants are required to submit examples of previous communications work and respond to a targeted application question. Details of the additional information required are outlined in the How to apply section below, and applicants are encouraged to review this carefully before submitting their application.
Sponsorship / work rights for Australia
You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to be eligible to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.
Pre-employment checks
Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.
EEO statement
At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQ+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Gold employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion.
How to apply
Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.
Please also provide: Examples of your previous communications work (e.g. internal newsletters, intranet/SharePoint content, campaign materials, or visual/graphic communications).
You will also be required to respond to the following targeted question as part of the application process:
Describe a communications campaign you recently designed and delivered across multiple internal channels. How did you tailor messaging to different audiences and measure effectiveness?
For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.
For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Nicole Turle, Recruitment Operations by email to nicole.turle@sydney.edu.au
© The University of Sydney
The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
Click to view the Position Description for this role.
Applications Close
Tuesday 26 May 2026 11:59 PM
