Manager Strategic Communications & Engagement

Working to protect the state’s water resources

• Lead impactful communications and engagement for environmental outcomes
• Ongoing full-time (35 hours per week) opportunity
• Office location upon negotiation across NSW, hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $154,231 to $178,369+ super

Our Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) team is currently seeking to appoint a Manager Strategic Communications & Engagement to lead the delivery of strategic communications and engagement initiatives that build public confidence in water regulation and promote awareness of NSW water laws.

In this leadership role, you will oversee a specialist communications and engagement team responsible for delivering NRAR's media, brand, stakeholder engagement and education programs. You will develop and implement strategic communication initiatives, manage reputational risks and emerging issues, oversee digital communication channels, and provide expert advice to senior leaders on complex communication and engagement matters. Working closely with stakeholders across government, industry, First Nations communities and the broader community, you will help shape NRAR's public profile and ensure clear, consistent messaging that supports its regulatory objectives. As part of a collaborative leadership team, you'll have the opportunity to influence meaningful outcomes that support the sustainable management of water resources across NSW

• Proven leadership experience in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, media relations or corporate affairs.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and deliver integrated communication, media, engagement and education strategies that achieve organisational objectives.
• Strong experience managing complex stakeholder environments and building productive relationships across government, industry, community and First Nations stakeholders.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex or technical information into clear and compelling messaging.
• Experience leading teams, coaching staff and fostering a high-performing, collaborative culture.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, competing deadlines and emerging issues.
• Demonstrated capability in media management, reputation management and strategic issue resolution.
• Experience using research, data and insights to inform communication strategies and drive behaviour change outcomes.
• Knowledge of regulation, water management, natural resources or public sector environments will be highly regarded.

•  Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience.

For more information read the full Role Description: Manager Strategic Communications and Engagement

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

NRAR enforces the NSW water laws and offers guidance and education to help water users comply.
We strive to be an efficient and effective regulator that celebrates and reflects the diversity of the community we serve.

Working with NRAR provides a chance to make sure water is used lawfully so that all communities and the environment get a fair share.

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment. 

Should you require further information about the role please contact Keeley Reynolds via keeley.reynolds@nrar.nsw.gov.au

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Celia Luis on 02 4904 2746 (please mention reference number 553742).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. 

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Advertised: 22 Oct 2026 AUS Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 05 Nov 2026 AUS Eastern Daylight Time

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