EGM, Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Relations

Fairness feels good

Make a real impact at AFCA. Where fairness drives every decision. Help us deliver world-class, independent complaints resolution for Australians. As a not-for-profit and progressive financial ombudsman, we’re championing positive change. Achieving our purpose takes progressive thinking, accountability and resilience. At AFCA, our inclusive leadership values every voice. We offer our people flexible work options, thoughtful benefits and opportunities to deepen expertise. Flourish in a diverse, caring culture. Feel the difference of belonging to an organisation intentionally designed to put people first.

Lead the voice, brand and engagement of an organisation that stands on the side of fairness.

AFCA is seeking an Executive General Manager, Strategic Communications and Engagement to lead how we communicate, connect and engage with the community and stakeholders we serve. This is a rare opportunity to join AFCA’s Executive Leadership Team and contribute to strengthening fairness and confidence in the financial services sector.

The opportunity

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will be the strategic leader responsible for AFCA’s communications, engagement and brand. You will act as a trusted adviser to the CEO, Executive and Board, providing expert counsel on  communication, stakeholder dynamics, and risk across a complex and evolving environment.

You will lead a high‑performing, multidisciplinary team and oversee:

• Strategic communications – ensuring clarity, consistency, and accessibility of AFCA's communications across all audiences
• Stakeholder and community engagement – strengthening relationships with industry, consumer groups and other key stakeholders
• Media, issues and crisis management – leading proactive and reactive engagement on complex and sensitive matters
• Internal communications – connecting people to purpose and strategy, and supporting engagement through change
• Brand, digital and campaigns – stewarding AFCA’s brand and digital presence
• Leadership and governance – embedding strong governance, evaluation and continuous improvement across all communications and engagement activity

About you

You are an experienced senior communications leader who brings sound judgement, calm authority, and the ability to navigate complexity with integrity.

You will likely bring:

• Significant executive‑level experience in strategic communications, engagement, public affairs or brand
• A strong understanding of regulatory and complex stakeholder environments, ideally within financial services or similarly complex sectors
• Proven experience advising CEOs, Boards and executive teams, particularly on reputational and sensitive issues
• A track record in issues and crisis communications, media engagement and enterprise‑wide campaigns
• The ability to lead and inspire teams in fast‑moving, high‑impact environments
• Exceptional influencing skills, credibility and personal integrity
• Tertiary qualifications in communications, public policy, journalism or a related discipline are desirable.

In this role, you will have:

• A seat at the executive table with genuine strategic influence
• The opportunity to shape communications on nationally significant issues
• A values‑led culture that puts fairness, transparency and respect at its core

 If you are a senior communications leader seeking purpose, impact and complexity , we would love to hear from you.

• Silver AWEI Accreditation 2025 – Recognised for LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion.
• Accredited Family Friendly Workplace – Supporting work-life balance and inclusivity.
• Hybrid working – Flexible arrangements with two days a week in our modern offices designed for collaboration and wellbeing.
• Additional and inclusive leave options – Flexible public holidays, gender affirmation leave, women’s health leave, and bonus paid time off over the end of year holiday period.
• Locations – A growing team of over 1,600 dedicated professionals based in Melbourne and Sydney CBD offices.

To apply

If you’re passionate about fairness and believe your skills align with this role, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every single criterion.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities. If you require any accessibility support during the recruitment process, please reach out to our team at [email protected].

We believe fairness starts with people. That’s why we don’t use AI or automated tools to screen candidates. As a result, our processes may take a little longer, and we thank you for your patience.

About AFCA

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) was established in 2018 as a private not-for-profit ombudsman service providing free, fair and independent help with financial disputes. Since 2018, AFCA has received more than 634,000 complaints, helping to secure $2.1 billion in compensation for consumers. 

AFCA is a 2026 Circle Back Initiative Employer - we are committed to responding to every applicant.