Internal Communications Lead

Transcription

1 POSITION DESCRIPTION Internal Communications Lead 1 POSITION DETAILS Position Title: Reports to: Department: Location: Internal Communications Lead Manager Communications & Engagement Communications & Engagement / Customer & Community Traralgon Date: October 2018 Document Reference: COR/17/ PURPOSE OF POSITION The Internal Communications Lead is responsible for developing programs that deliver high levels of staff engagement through internal communications and events. The role is required to engage with the Managing Director and Executive to prepare and coordinate the delivery of internal strategic communications objectives and provide holistic advice on best practice delivery of internal communications products aligned to the organisational strategic objectives. 3 ABOUT GIPPSLAND WATER The incumbent will be expected to adhere to all Gippsland Water policies and procedures, and in doing so, demonstrate our organisational values. Page 1 of 7

2 About us Gippsland Water is the second largest regional urban water corporation by revenue in Victoria, comprising a diverse, complex and geographically dispersed asset base spread across a 5000 km 2 region which is serviced through an asset base of in excess of $1 billion. We exist to deliver reliable, high-quality water, wastewater and waste recovery services to ensure the economy and liveability of the central Gippsland region. Our service area is diverse in area and needs, from the fast growing region in the west, to the transitioning challenges of the Latrobe Valley to providing water and wastewater services to Victoria s largest industrial water users. There has been significant change throughout the Gippsland region, in particular, the closure of major businesses. While this changing landscape presents many challenges to Gippsland Water, it also highlights the importance of the role Gippsland Water plays in the region, and the role we play in the region s transition. Gippsland Water will continue to focus on: maintaining quality water and wastewater services for our customers at an affordable price our sustainable future and the future of the region, and the role we play in the future. To enable the corporation to meet these needs Gippsland Water has introduced a new approach and strategy that better reflects the needs of the communities and positions the organisation to deliver sustainable environmental and financial outcomes. Gippsland Water engages an inclusive and diverse workforce of around 270 employees across six departments and prides itself on achieving a work-life balance for all employees, allowing us to deliver on the strategic priority of having the right people in the right jobs. This position, therefore, provides the opportunity for flexible working arrangements. 4 ORGANISATION STRUCTURE General Manager Customer & Community Manager Communications & Engagement External Engagement Lead Internal Communications Lead Media and Communications Officers Water for Health Project Officer Page 2 of 7

3 5 KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES The Internal Communications Lead will work with the Managing Director and people across the business to build and link their communication and internal engagement activities. The role will deliver on: Enhancing formal staff communication channels in the dissemination of safety messages and initiatives; Facilitating organisational engagement programs, including fostering positive culture initiatives, Driving internal stakeholder understanding of methods to bring Gippsland Water vision and values to life; Internal promotion and communication of corporate strategic objectives and plans; Guiding training and development initiatives with respect to improving internal communications as well as influencing a range of other programs designed to facilitate cultural change. 6 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Engaging with the Managing Director and Executive Leadership Team to produce communications aligned with the organisation s strategic priorities. Advise the Manager Communications and Engagement and General Manager Customer & Community on strategic approaches to developing and delivering an Internal Communications Plan. Liaise and engage with internal stakeholders across the organisation to understand internal communications challenges and opportunities with the responsibility for developing approaches and tools to address these through the Internal Communications Plan. Work with Internal Stakeholders and others to coordinate and deliver agreed cultural change communications campaigns identified in the Internal Communications Plan, working closely with internal stakeholders, the Communications and Engagement workgroup and other team members as required. Support the Communications and Engagement workgroup to deliver high quality, effective and timely employee communications to enhance employee engagement initiatives, including publications, campaigns and events. Lead inter-departmental teams to deliver strategic internal communications outcomes in a coordinated and consistent manner. Providing internal communications advice and support to allocated business groups. In particular, advising and supporting all strategic change initiative communications to ensure alignment to vision, strategic themes and business goals. Builds internal stakeholder capacity to communicate clearly and effectively with internal audiences and facilitates their understanding of effective internal communications techniques. Page 3 of 7

4 Review existing internal communications tools and implement fresh and effective channels as identified in the Internal Communications Plan. Provide advice and support to the Executive for copy, scripts and speeches as needed for internal communication. Provide advice and support to General and Department Managers regarding the coordinated delivery of internal communications activities, to ensure consistency of key messages. Lead the review of and annually update the Internal Communications Plan, providing monthly reports on agreed objectives. Develop internal stakeholder capacity to communicate clearly and effectively with internal audiences and advise how to utilise internal communications techniques. Participate in networking groups and events to share knowledge, research and apply best practice methods for effective internal communications. 7 KEY CHALLENGES To deliver consistent, meaningful and measurable internal communication programs in an evolving environment to facilitate an increase in employee engagement and motivational levels. To foster cooperative working relationship across the business groups by constructively participating in the development and implementation of activity that enhances internal communications at Gippsland Water. 8 JUDGEMENT & REASONING Ability to identify emerging internal communications opportunities and channels, providing guidance on best methods to capitalise on these. Excellent analytical and strategic thinking skills. Understanding of the strategic planning process and its role in the effective management of organisations and internal communications activities. Ability to provide sound advice on internal communication tactics to deliver agreed outcomes. Ability to analyse complex communication problems and make recommendations without precedent. Outstanding attention to detail with the ability to provide approval within delegation for a range of internal communications activities. Approve a range of internal communication products and actions, within delegated authority, with a specific focus on attention to detail, presentation, lay out and identification of key messages. Ability to be able to foster and maintain relationships with key internal and external stakeholders. Page 4 of 7

5 Rationale to manage conflict and negative internal stakeholder view points in a constructive and democratic manner. Ability to refer to and advise the Manager Communications and Engagement and General Manager Customer and Community on sensitive matters as they emerge and provide recommendations on a course of action. 9 INTERPERSONAL SKILLS/COMMUNICATIONS Outstanding oral and written communication skills and presentation skills that can be adapted for different audiences. Demonstrated influencing and networking skills that can be used to secure support and commitment from colleagues through the clear articulation of ideas and opinions. Excellent attention to detail and ability to write and edit a range of corporate materials. Thorough understanding of internal communications platforms available and demonstrated ability to utilise these effectively to communicate to employees and stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to develop, plan and deliver strong and productive relationships across all levels of the organisation, ensuring internal communications are relevant, timely and effective, and meet the strategic goals of Gippsland Water. Qualified ability to liaise with a range of people across the organisation including the Executive and Leadership Team, Department Managers and Co-ordinators. This position is required to ensure opportunities to develop, maintain and build quality relationships across the organisation are maximised. Confident and refined skills in establishing rapport with external stakeholders including designers, consultants, contractors and professional internal communication engagement networks. External Communications Graphic designers Merchandise suppliers Internal Communications Occupational Health & Safety team Organisational Development team Communications team Executive Leadership Team Department Managers and Co-ordinators Staff across the organisation Page 5 of 7

6 10 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE ESSENTIAL & DESIRED FORMAL QUALIFICATION Essential: A tertiary qualification in Communications/ Journalism or similar business discipline Desirable: A current Victorian motor vehicle driving licence ESSENTIAL & DESIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE Essential: At least five years experience in Communications/ Journalism or similar business discipline Experience in and a passion for working in an Internal Communications environment Demonstrated experience in engagement and influencing change within organisations and empowering others Excellent written & verbal skills, time management and editorial skills Experience in developing and deploying internal communications strategy and campaigns, including sound experience in the development and implementation of effective strategic engagement plans A demonstrated excellent understanding of internal communications channels and how they can be used effectively Sound ability to influence stakeholders in the delivery of key communication objectives Demonstrated experience in analysing industry best practice methods and applying them to the workplace in a practical manner High level organisational skills with the ability to set priorities and operate within strict deadlines and budgets. Excellent writing ability, with expertise in writing a variety of staff communications including but not limited to announcements, presentations, speeches, articles, and web content. Excellent problem solving skills. Desirable: Demonstrated presentation skills to large and small community groups IAP2 Accreditation Page 6 of 7

7 11 SELECTION CRITERIA Demonstrated experience in internal communications or similar role. Demonstrated experience with the development and implementation of communication and engagement strategies. Proven ability to liaise with a range of stakeholders and work effectively autonomously and as part of a team. Demonstrated ability to create engaging content across all communication channels. Excellent problem solving skills, along with the ability to set priorities, and meet deadlines for projects and programs. Highly developed interpersonal and negotiation skills with the ability to create, maintain and foster effective professional relationships, including a demonstrated ability to negotiate and influence stakeholders on internal communication activities. Page 7 of 7