Director, Strategic Communication, Education and Engagement

The Position

The Victorian Ombudsman is seeking to appoint an accomplished leader to strategically shape how the organisation communicates and engages with the public sector and the broader community to support fair decision making in public administration.

Reporting to the Deputy Ombudsman, Prevention, this newly created role will lead a dynamic team responsible for strategic communication, media, education, stakeholder engagement and community outreach. The role will ensure a planned approach, underpinned by robust evidence-based decision making to strengthen public sector capability and deliver the VO’s message across more channels to a broader audience.

This influential leadership opportunity requires sound judgement, high levels of self-awareness and the capacity to operate effectively in a sensitive and high-profile environment. The Director will provide expert advice, identify emerging opportunities and issues, and translate organisational priorities into strategies that deliver meaningful public value.

The successful candidate will have a track record in building and sustaining a cohesive, high-performing team culture and bring exceptional stakeholder engagement capability and experience in strategic communications.

Please review the position description for full details.

Visit: Our approach to prevention | Victorian Ombudsman 

The Organisation

The Victorian Ombudsman provides a free, independent, accessible and impartial service to the public. Its purpose is to ensure fairness in the public’s dealings with the Victorian public sector, improve public administration and engage with public organisations, government and the wider community. The organisation operates under the Ombudsman Act 1973 and considers the requirements of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 in its work.

Through its Prevention Division, the Victorian Ombudsman works to prevent unfairness and harm by raising awareness, strengthening capability and building trust. Its education, communication and engagement activities connect the organisation’s insights and oversight responsibilities with the needs of public-sector organisations and the Victorian community.

The organisation’s values of Fairness, Impact and Trust guide its work and its relationships with the public, government, stakeholders and colleagues.

For more information on the organisation visit: About us | Victorian Ombudsman

To apply - A candidate information pack is available to download by visiting: https://futureleadership.com.au/your-career/opportunities/. Click 'Quick apply', using reference VOMsce0826 addressing key selection criteria in your cover letter (and highlighting 3 key career achievements) and resume to David Baber of Future Leadership™, or call 13•• ••• 437 for further information.

Applications close: Friday, 18 September 2026