Community Engagement Officer

About the Catholic Development Fund

Catholic Development Fund (CDF) are a values-based financial institution that provides funding and support across its footprint of Catholic organisations, including parishes, primary and secondary schools, healthcare, aged care, and social services providers.

Our work enables real impact: from hospital wings for the sick, safe havens for the homeless, and classrooms for the young – we support our customers to grow their mission. Through our expertise and commitment, we help Catholic organisations and everyday people put their faith into action and contribute to a fairer, more cohesive society.

About the Role

The Client Services Group is the engine room of CDF, bringing together a highly experienced team with a strong commitment to service, collaboration, and community engagement.

Reporting to the Executive Manager, Retail & Marketing, the Community Engagement Officer will be responsible for the sales and promotion of CDF Community Fund products through Catholic parishes, organisations and schools, positioning CDF as a key stakeholder and provider in the eyes of the client and broader community.

The Community Engagement Officer will increase CDF’s activity with a wide array of clients through the development and delivery of presentations and engagements, highlighting the value of CDF to organisations, and clearly explaining the CDF Community Fund’s value proposition to individuals.

This role will also require you to foster and manage relationships with external stakeholders, driving internal engagement while nurturing external relationships. As a brand champion and ambassador for CDF’s mission, you will be a highly organised and self- motivated individual with experience in public speaking, oral and written communication, and ability to adapt to changing job requirements and opportunities. You will have strong communication and administration skills and utilize your creativity to develop effective engagements for different audiences. You will have to tailor your engagements to the preferences and objectives of the host organisations.

Comprehensive training and mentoring will be provided through the Client Services Group to support your ongoing development. This position may be offered on either a part-time or casual basis, depending on the successful candidate’s availability and preference. Regular travel is required, along with a valid driver’s licence and access to a reliable vehicle. As part of engaging with parish communities, the role includes a regular half-day commitment on Sundays to support parish presentations and community outreach activities.

Key Accountabilities

• Planning, organisation and execution of a variety of engagements, including in parishes, schools and partner organisations.
• Provide support on other engagements being conducted by others in the Retail, Marketing, and Relationship Management teams.
• Drafting of generic and personalised presentations that clearly and concisely explain the purpose and activities of CDF, and the retail products available.
• Have a detailed understanding of CDF Community Fund’s products and processes, and clearly articulate them to internal and external stakeholders.
• Collect and provide leads to the Community Fund Relationship Manager.
• Communication and referral with prospective clients in person, via email and phone.
• Liaison with key external stakeholders, including parish priests, schools, principals, etc.
• Liaison with Risk & Compliance, to ensure client-facing activities, advertising and communications meet compliance requirements.
• Self-directed or assigned copywriting, including marketing materials for existing and prospective retail clients, including email templates, flyers, digital banners, letters and website sections.

What You Bring

• Excellent public speaking skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, particularly speech writing and impromptu speaking.
• Ability to work as part of a team and autonomously.
• Ability to manage time and prioritise tasks.
• Ability to learn and explain information, targeted towards varied audiences.
• Competent in Microsoft Office 365.

Why work for us?

• Generous salary package – that recognises your skills, experience, and contributions.
• Professional Environment – join a dedicated team of professionals committed to fostering an agile and inspiring work environment.
• Meaningful Work – be part of a values, driven organisation that makes a difference in the community.
• Hybrid Flexibility – we offer a hybrid working model (3 days in the office per week), plus a modern workspace in tranquil East Melbourne.

How to apply

If you’re looking for a role where you can make a real impact, we want to hear from you!

To submit an application, please click apply and provide a copy of your current resume and a cover letter.

Please note: We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis, if you believe this role might be for you, please apply as soon as possible.

Employment is subject to satisfactory background checks which include a National Police Check, Working with Children Check and Reference Checks. To be successful in this role you must hold valid working rights in Australia.

The Archdiocese is committed to the safety, wellbeing, and dignity of all children and vulnerable adults.