Director of Communications

The AIIA is seeking an experienced professional to join its small National Office team as Director of Communications.

The main objective will be to enhance the AIIA’s reputation and image across Australia and internationally, as well as to establish an efficient flow of information between the AIIA’s seven state and territory offices and their members, as well as other stakeholders in the nation’s foreign affairs.       

Reporting to the National Executive Director, the successful applicant will participate in the fulfilment of AIIA’s strategic goals and will attend all meetings of the AIIA’s governing National Executive. The AIIA, with a new web site www.internationalaffairs.org.au, already makes extensive use of digital and social media in its communications, and the Director of Communications will oversee these operations as part of a wider and evolving role.

Initially a part-time position with flexible working hours estimated to total 20 per week, the appointee can potentially be based anywhere in Australia given the AIIA’s national reach. Applicants must be familiar with and be able to communicate through all forms of digital media. A package of up to $32,000 will be negotiated. 

Duties

• Identify and communicate with key stakeholders and new audiences through traditional and new media to increase the AIIA’s profile
• Leverage AIIA content and networks to extend the AIIA’s impact and reach
• Distribute content on the AIIA’s website and other platforms
• Commission and edit articles on international affairs
• Write and edit communication and marketing materials
• Develop and implement targeted press and marketing campaigns
• Develop and implement social media campaigns
• Develop effective metrics to measure online traffic and engagement
• Develop appropriate social media guidelines and usage practices
• Expand the use of audio and video in AIIA communications
• Make recommendations on future directions using innovative technologies

Selection Criteria

1. Demonstrated skills in communication with a wide range of target audiences:
   1. Exceptional writing skills with an ability to adapt to suit different media and audiences.
   2. Demonstrated high-level website management skills including proven ability to develop, edit and deliver quality content in tight timeframes.
   3. Highly effective communication, negotiation and representation skills.
2. A sound knowledge of contemporary international affairs and Australia’s relations with its main strategic and trading partners.
3. Proven high-level professional and management skills, including:
   1. Team-building, training and supervision of interns and volunteers.
   2. Judgement, flexibility, responsiveness and demonstrated performance in the delivery of outcomes.
   3. Well-developed administrative skills with the proven ability to plan, organise and prioritise workloads to meet deadlines and to work under pressure.