Corporate, AV File: HR609

There is 1 full-time position available.

Manager, Strategic Communications and Engagement

Lead strategy. Influence stakeholders. Shape reputation.

APPLICATIONS CLOSE AT 4PM ON MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2026.

We are seeking an experienced communications and engagement leader to provide strategic direction on reputation, stakeholder engagement and organisational communications across the Forest Products Commission.

FPC (Forest Products Commission) is a Government Trading Entity that delivers timber products and services across three business segments – plantations, native forest and sandalwood. Our team engages with communities, industry and government to support a vibrant and sustainable forestry industry.

FPC owns and manages softwood plantations to support WA’s housing and construction industry.  We are actively investing in the acquisition of new land and plantations to ensure future supply and assist in addressing the challenges of climate change.

FPC has transitioned its native forest business in alignment with the Government’s changes in forest policy.  This has resulted in a shift from commercial scale forest harvesting to the provision of services to the Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions for forest health outcomes.

About the role

As the Manager, Strategic Communications and Engagement, you will lead a dedicated team to deliver high-impact internal and external communications, media management, and strategic sponsorship initiatives, ensuring FPC maintains a strong, consistent and trusted public profile.

As a key leader in FPC, you will provide strategic advice to the CEO, Executive Team, Board of Commissioners and the broader organisation on communication priorities, stakeholder sentiment, emerging issues and reputational risks. With our people predominantly regionally based, your leadership will be critical in fostering a positive supportive culture, ensuring all employees feel engaged regardless of location.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading FPC's strategic communications and engagement agenda.
• Developing and delivering integrated internal and external communication strategies.
• Providing expert advice on reputation management, stakeholder engagement and complex issues.
• Building and maintaining productive relationships across government, industry, community and diverse stakeholders.
• Overseeing media, corporate communications, sponsorships and engagement initiatives.
• Supporting organisational change and business priorities through effective communication and engagement.
• Leading and developing a high-performing communications team.

About you

To be successful in this key leadership role, you will be:

• A strategic and forward-thinking leader with strong business acumen, demonstrated experience navigating complex environments, and the ability to balance competing priorities to deliver organisational outcomes.
• Highly adaptable and resilient, with the capacity to operate effectively in ambiguous and evolving environments, exercising sound judgement in the face of complex challenges and emerging issues.
• An accomplished problem-solver and trusted advisor, capable of building productive relationships with diverse stakeholders and providing high-level strategic advice on complex, sensitive and contentious matters.
• Committed to maintaining strong organisational relationships and stakeholder connections through regular engagement across the business, including undertaking regional travel as required.

Further details regarding the duties and responsibilities can be found in the attached Job Description.  To find out more about our business visit our website to view our annual report.

For further information about this employment opportunity, please contact Tibia Harniess A/Director People and Culture by phoning 0467 613 407 or emailing Tibia.Harniess@fpc.wa.gov.au

Why work for the Forest Products Commission

In addition to a competitive salary, our employees enjoy a range of benefits which may include (in line with operations requirements):

• Career and professional development programs and opportunities;
• Flexible work arrangements;
• Salary packaging options;
• Access to health and wellbeing initiatives such as flu vaccinations and wellness programs; and
• Employee Assistance Program including additional wellbeing services for you and immediate family members.

How to Apply

Applicants are required to apply online and submit:

• A comprehensive CV;
• A cover letter (no more than 2 pages) outlining your suitability to the role and demonstrating how you align with our values. Refer to the attached job description form for full position details; and
• Contact details of two recent referees, including your current line manager.

If you have trouble downloading attachments or wish to enquire about the process, please contact People and Culture on 9363 4601 or peopleandculture@fpc.wa.gov.au (Not to be used for applications).

Candidates will be provided comprehensive information on all assessment methods to be utilised which may include psychometric testing. The recommended applicants, in addition to providing a satisfactory WA National Police Certificate issued within the month prior to appointment will be subject to a pre-employment background check for this senior role.

Suitable applicants may be considered for similar vacancies that may arise over the next 12 months. The FPC may extend the closing date to increase the field of applications.

Substantive Equality Statement

The FPC is an equal opportunity employer, we recognise the value that people of diverse backgrounds bring to the workforce. Supported by our People Plan, we are committed to improving employment opportunities and outcomes through the recruitment, development and retention of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, people with disability, women, people of diverse sexualities and genders and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

As a measure to achieve equality, sections 51, 66R and 66ZP of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 apply to this position. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people (24 years of age and under) and people with a disability are strongly encouraged to apply and to indicate within their application to which diversity group they belong.

If you have any access needs that may require adjustments to the application or interview process, including alternate methods of communication, please contact us at peopleandculture@fpc.wa.gov.au  or call (08) 9363 4601. We encourage applicants to visit the Jobs and Skills WA website or call 13 64 64 for assistance with preparing your application, finding employment and career progression.

Late applications will not be accepted. To avoid last minute congestion of the system, please endeavour to submit your application well before the closing time.