About Sustain

Sustain: The Australian Food Network is a health promotion charity specialising in designing and building sustainable, healthy and equitable food systems. As a national food systems ‘think and do organisation,’ we conduct research, develop policy, deliver inspiring projects and bring together diverse actors around a powerful shared advocacy agenda for transformative change.

We are committed to transitioning to a food system that nourishes people and the ecosystems that sustain us all. We give communities, governments and organisations the tools they need to help them become empowered food citizens and to develop policies and practices that support healthy, sustainable and equitable food systems. Our projects are designed to have a concrete impact at a local level and to empower and inspire others by showing that, yes, a better food future is possible.

Role summary and key responsibilities

This pivotal new role will work with Sustain’s Executive Director and Board in leading the development and implementation of a communications strategy that supports Sustain’s core mission. We are looking for a capable, motivated and experienced communications professional -- a strategic thinker who can grasp the ‘big picture’ of food systems change and help us clearly articulate and communicate our role in it. The successful candidate will be a self-motivated, energetic ‘people person’ with a knack for communicating complexity to diverse audiences. Excellent attention to detail is essential.

The role involves the following responsibilities, but is not limited to:

• Oversee a brand review and redesign to strengthen and streamline Sustain’s communications and online presence
• Work closely with the Sustain team and board in leading the development and implementation of clear, impactful communication strategy aligned with Sustain’s overarching vision and strategy.
• Work with a web designer to develop a strong community-facing web presence that supports the communication strategy
• Lead the implementation of measurement, analysis and reporting of Sustain's digital communications and engagement effectiveness
• Identify opportunities for positive public engagement and proactively build awareness of Sustain's mission and strategy.
• Apply a creative, collaborative approach to developing strong relationships and influencing stakeholders and partners
• Source and write engaging quality content for multiple communication channels
• Empower and guide Sustain’s communications and events staff in developing clear and consistent messaging for Sustain’s social media platforms, e-newsletter, annual reports and press releases

Skills and experience

Essential

• Proven track record in developing and implementing a strategic communications plan
• Extensive experience in using content management systems and design, editing and publishing using MailChimp, Canva and other digital applications
• Demonstrable skills in brand review/design
• Outstanding written, verbal and visual communication skills
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Capacity to work independently as well as collaboratively with a team (including remotely)
• Good judgement and strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to juggle competing priorities and work effectively in a dynamic environment
• Experience in the not-for-profit, community or government sectors
• Tertiary qualification in communication, marketing, public relations, social sciences/arts or related field
• Strong commitment to social and ecological justice

Desirable

• Food system expertise and/or experience in community food or related sectors (e.g. environment, agriculture, health, etc)
• Experience with website development / maintenance
• Familiarity with impact measurement frameworks

Reporting and working relationships

This position reports directly to the Executive Director and will develop strong, collaborative working relationships with the Operations Manager, communications and events team and board directors.

Salary, benefits and contract duration

$79,040 - $82,992 per annum pro rata (0.8 FTE for 12 months), plus superannuation. Possibility of contract extension and increase in FTE allocation subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance (6 month probationary period).

Generous not-for-profit salary packaging entitlements.

Flexible (hybrid) working arrangements.

An office environment (Preston) surrounded by our beautiful edible garden.

Work Location

This role can be often done remotely. Working in our Preston office will also be required, though when and how often are negotiable. Attendance at Sustain events will also be required from time to time.