Senior Manager Corporate Communications - Hawthorn East

Job Description

A new role = A new way to win together You belong at Coles Group where we look ahead, have a plan, and are up for the challenge. We learn and grow by taking career-defining opportunities and this one may just be your next. About the team Corporate and Indigenous Affairs is the voice of Coles Group internally and externally. We collaborate with stakeholders across our business to better connect and deliver for our customers and each other. By working together, we further strengthen the trust and relatability our brands are known for across Australia. About the role As our new Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, you’ll take charge of corporate reputation, issues and crisis management, and strategic external communications. Reporting to the Head of External Communications & Community Engagement, you’ll lead a team of three and work closely with senior leaders, including the Executive Leadership team, media, and other key stakeholders to drive Coles’ corporate narrative. What you’ll be doing This is a high-profile, fast-paced role where you’ll be at the forefront of managing Coles’ reputation. You’ll be plugged into the news cycle daily, responding rapidly to emerging media issues and leading a high-performing team to drive strategic, coordinated responses to high-stakes situations. You’ll also deliver proactive communications to position Coles effectively for a range of external audiences. You’ll also Stay ahead of media and policy developments, ensuring timely and strategic responses. Support senior leaders with compelling narratives and media engagement. Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, third-party advocates, and industry groups. Lead and mentor a team of experienced communications professionals, fostering collaboration and accountability. Support the team in managing 24/7 media responses, ensuring Coles remains consistently prepared and proactive. Drive strong media relationships, leveraging your established national network to amplify key messages. Lead the team in assessing and mitigating risks, ensuring rapid and effective issue resolution. About you and your skills We’re looking for a strategic, solutions-driven corporate communications expert with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Business, Public Policy, Economics, Legal, or a related field. You’ll also have: 12–15 years’ experience in corporate communications, media, or government affairs within a high-profile, consumer-facing, or ASX-listed company. A strong grasp of political, regulatory, and business landscapes, with the ability to translate complex issues into clear, effective communications. A background in media, government, or corporate affairs—you may have been a press secretary, led issues management for a major brand, or worked in corporate communications at a national level. Exceptional stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage senior executives, media, and industry bodies. Resilience, adaptability, and a hands-on approach—you thrive under pressure and know how to mobilise teams quickly. What’s in it for you? Flexible working options: We know that work is only one part of your life, so we actively encourage a positive work-life balance and provide hybrid working options to help you achieve it. Office perks: Take advantage of our gym facility and fitness classes, free parking, BBQ area, mini-Coles supermarket, fooderie hub where you can sample new products before they hit the shelves, school holiday program and so much more when you come in. Discounts: Eligible team members receive 5% discount all year round on your Supermarket and Liquor online and in-store purchases. We also offer additional periods of double discount (10%) at various times throughout the year. As well as hotdeals exclusive to team members that translate into additional savings. Reward through recognition: Give and receive recognition, linked to our Coles values, through our digital recognition platform ‘mythanks’. You can accumulate points to redeem in the online shop for exciting gifts and electronic gift cards from an extensive range of retailers. Opportunities for learning and development: No matter where you start within our diverse business, you’ll have experiences, exposure, and education to satisfy you. Discover and explore a variety of career development programs and job-specific training. Paid parental leave: We understand how important your life outside work is and offer permanent team members paid parental leave to support you in balancing work and family. Investment in your future: Our annual team member share plan offer allows eligible team members to make regular pre-tax salary sacrifice deductions to purchase Coles Group shares. About the recruitment process We’re continuing to build a gender equitable team, and a culture that is just as diverse, inclusive and welcoming as the communities we serve. We are committed to creating a workplace that is safe and respectful for our team. We encourage applications from people of all ages, cultures (including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples), abilities, sexual orientation and gender identities. We’re happy to adjust our recruitment process to support candidates with disability. For further information and additional contact details visit the ‘Our Recruitment Process’ section of our careers site or email Job ID: 150198 Employment Type: Full time #J-18808-Ljbffr