Corporate Affairs Lead

• Join our dynamic and rapidly expanding team as we embark on an exciting journey of organisational growth and innovation, working towards our vision of becoming Australia’s Port for the Future. 
• Work on meaningful initiatives that will help create prosperity for the North Queensland’s communities. 
• Enjoy an environment that provides attractive benefits including flexibility, true work-life balance and generous opportunities for professional development. 

About the Port

The Port of Townsville Limited (the Port) has been actively shaping the future of Townsville and North Queensland for almost 160 years. 

Today, we are Australia’s largest port for zinc, lead, copper, sugar and fertiliser. Additionally, we handle more motor vehicles and containerised goods than any other port in Northern Australia. The goods that flow through our ports are grown, mined, manufactured and used to better the lives of more than 800,000 people across a vast catchment area, spanning from Hinchinbrook to the Burdekin and west to Mount Isa. 

On average, more than 7.5 million tonnes of goods, worth more than $11.4 billion, cross our wharves each year. Thanks to our customers, we are one of the country’s most diverse ports, linking more than 30 different commodities to 130 ports in 44 countries. 

The Townsville port is also an increasingly strategic forward mounting location in Australia’s Defence capabilities, as well as an important tourism enabler due to its modern dedicated cruise ship terminal. 

Working with us

The Port of Townsville is expanding its team of passionate and innovative professionals as we undergo a period of significant and sustainable growth. 

We are currently undertaking the biggest port expansion in our history, trade volumes are expected to triple by 2050 as new projects in rare earth, critical minerals and renewable energy come to realisation and demand for Defence and cruise shipping capacity is rapidly increasing. 

In the coming years we will be challenged to continue to deliver highly competitive day to day port operations, drive improvements in sustainability across all areas of the business and deliver major capital works projects that will ensure our capacity to facilitate the trade demands of the future. 

We are currently looking for exceptional talent to join our team as we embark on this journey. Are you a proactive and ambitious individual with a passion for making a real impact? This is your chance to be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and contributions will be valued. 

The Port provides a supportive workplace culture that is committed to improving diversity and fostering inclusivity. With a strong focus on nurturing growth and continuous learning, you'll have the resources and guidance to excel in your role and beyond. 

About the role and you

The Corporate Affairs Lead is responsible for managing and overseeing the Port’s Corporate Affairs functions, including public relations, government relations, stakeholder engagement, and reputation management. This position plays a critical role in shaping the Port’s image, building strong relationships with key stakeholders, and ensuring effective communication with internal and external audiences. The Corporate Affairs Lead serves as a strategic advisor to senior management and collaborates across departments to align corporate messaging with business objectives.

• With oversight from the Manager Strategy and External Affairs develop and implement a Port-wide comprehensive corporate communications strategy to effectively convey the Port’s vision, mission, values, and strategic objectives.
• Manage the workflow of the Corporate Affair team ensuring team cohesion, clarity of responsibilities, and planning of staged deliverables, and mentoring and development opportunities.
• Ensure consistent messaging and brand identity across all communication channels, including press releases, website content, social media, and internal communications.
• Lead the development of compelling and engaging content for various platforms, such as speeches, presentations, articles, and blog posts.
• Manage crisis communications and act as a spokesperson for the Port when necessary.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including investors, regulatory bodies, government officials, industry associations and community organisations.
• Proactively engage with stakeholders to understand their perspectives, concerns, and expectations, and integrate their feedback into the Port’s decision-making processes.
• Oversee the development and implementation of stakeholder and project engagement plans and initiatives, ensuring effective communication and collaboration with responsible team members.
• Represent the Port in external meetings, conferences, and events to enhance its visibility, influence, and reputation.
• Monitor and analyse legislative and regulatory developments, identifying potential impacts on the Port and recommending appropriate actions.
• Build and nurture relationships with government officials, policymakers, and industry influencers to advocate for the Port’s interests and promote favourable policy outcomes.
• Working with the Manager Strategy and External Affairs develop and execute government relations strategies and campaigns.
• Develop and implement Corporate, Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainability strategies aligned with the Port’s values and business goals.
• Oversee the planning and execution of CSR initiatives, community engagement programs, including the allocation and ongoing management of community grants.
• Ensure transparent reporting and communication of the Port’s sustainability performance and achievements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate CSR and sustainability considerations into business practices and decision-making.

Experience you’ll need

To be successful in the role, you will require: 

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, public affairs, journalism or a related field, or high level relevant professional experience.
• Current Queensland C class Driver’s Licence.
• National police check and the ability to obtain a Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC).
• Proven experience in Corporate Affairs, public relations, government relations, or related roles within a similar industry or organisation.
• Strong knowledge of corporate communications strategies, stakeholder engagement, and reputation management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling messages and adapt communication styles for diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated experience in building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, media representatives, community leaders, and industry influencers.
• Strong understanding of government relations, public affairs, and regulatory environments.
• Familiarity with Corporate, Social Responsibility and sustainability practices and reporting frameworks.
• Proven crisis management and issues handling skills.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities, with a track record of driving results and fostering collaboration.
• Ability to think strategically, analyse complex issues, and make sound recommendations.
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and discretion.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office suite.
• Demonstrated experience working with enterprise software systems such as Technology One, Oracle or equivalent.

https://www.livenorthqueensland.com.au/

For a more comprehensive understanding of the position's requirements, please refer to the Position Description available on our website. 

Application process

• Click apply and follow the prompts 
• Attach your current resume and a cover letter to your application 
• Applications close 11pm Sunday, 24 March 2024

For enquiries, please contact ***************@townsville-port.com.au, noting that applications must be submitted via our recruitment site - email applications will not be accepted. 

At the Port of Townsville, we value and celebrate the diversity of our community and recognise that it enriches our workplace. We strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds to come forward, confident that you will be met with respect and consideration. We are committed to ensuring our working environment is safe and welcoming. 

If you are an applicant who faces challenges due to cultural barriers or disabilities, please know that we are here to support you throughout the application process. We strive to create a welcoming and accessible recruitment experience for all candidates, and we encourage you to approach us if you require any assistance or accommodations. 

Together, let's build a workforce that thrives on inclusivity and embraces the strengths that everyone brings to our team.