Director, Partnerships And Communication

Description:

TAFE SA is South Australia’s largest vocational education and training (VET) provider. In 2024 our focus on quality and student experience was recognised through the awarding of Large Training Provider of the Year. As the Government owned tertiary institute providing vocational and higher education courses and programs across 30 campuses and online, TAFE SA has educated more than one million students across 80+ industry-focused programs, from entry-level certificates to bachelor’s degrees. With a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning, TAFE SA equips students with the future skills that South Australia needs. Committed to excellence in education and training, TAFE SA plays a pivotal role in building the state’s future workforce and is responsible for working with other agencies across a number of Government priority areas. The Chief Executive is working across jurisdictions to build the standing of vocational education and this role will provide support to this work. An opportunity now exists for a dynamic and strategic leader to join TAFE SA as Director, Partnerships and Communication.

Reporting to the Executive Director, Students, Strategic Planning and Policy, this pivotal leadership role is responsible for overseeing the development and execution of TAFE SA’s internal and external communications, media strategies, and executive level stakeholder engagement initiatives. As a trusted advisor to the Chief Executive, and as a member of the TAFE SA Leadership Team, you will play a key role in safeguarding and enhancing the organisation’s reputation both internally and externally. You will lead strategic initiatives that align with TAFE SA’s long-term goals, elevate its public profile, and foster robust partnerships across government, industry, and the private sector. You will manage the Chief Executive’s external engagement, lead media engagement efforts, and guide all internal and external communications to ensure consistency with the organisation’s strategic objectives. In this capacity, you will drive stakeholder relationships, proactively manage reputational risks, and cultivate collaborative engagement with key partners across government, industry, and the private sector.

With a proven track record in communications, media and stakeholder engagement at a senior level, you bring exceptional strategic acumen, political knowledge, and the ability to navigate complex environments. You will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of complex environments, and the ability to manage reputational risks effectively. Your expertise in issues management, public relations, and organisational positioning will be instrumental in elevating TAFE SA’s standing as a trusted, innovative, and future-focused educational institution that is setting new benchmarks for quality and innovation.

This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of one of South Australia’s largest and leading education providers and make a lasting impact through leadership, engagement, and strategic advocacy.

Applications should be forwarded in Word format to the attention of Julie Bennett, julie@underwoodexecutive.com.au. Confidential enquiries are welcome to Julie on 0431 742 034.

Please be advised, the successful applicant is required to demonstrate having a valid Working With Children Check (WWCC) and National Police Clearance (NPC) prior to being employed.

Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.