The Westmead Institute for Medical Research (WIMR) is one of the largest medical research institutes in Australia. Our Institute conducts multi-disciplinary research spanning from infection and immunity; cancer; liver and metabolic; neuroscience and vision and cardio-respiratory research. Combining these research themes, our vision is to tackle the most important health issues by progressing our scientific discoveries into cures and preventions that improve global health.

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this position is responsible for all other corporate communication including media, social media, internal and external communication, marketing, community engagement and websites. This role is integral to managing WIMR’s brand and reputation.

The Communications Manager must be pro-active and prepared to manage, deliver and assist with all of the operational tasks and functions associated with internal and external communication. An ability to respond to requests swiftly and deliver a client-focused service, while maintaining a focus on the higher-level communications priorities is also critical.

Success will be achieved by applying well-developed Marketing and PR skills to identify, evaluate and pursue corporate communications and brand building opportunities.

Major areas of responsibility include:

Content development to showcase Researchers and Research success

• Work collaboratively with Researchers to prepare compelling cases for support and pitch materials
• Development of Researcher and patient case study stories for use in media and marketing communications initiatives
• Preparation of annual reporting and assisting in the planning and preparation of donor acquittal reports
• Profile building for senior management including the Executive Director
• Ensure website profiles are current and accurate
• Proactively engaging in discussions to ensure opportunities are embraced
• Showcase and celebration of Award achievements

Strengthen brand profile and recognition

• Ensure WIMR and WIMR Foundation brand guidelines are met
• Drive innovative communication initiatives to support development efforts including holistic campaign, promotional materials, collateral, and event planning
• Manage the website and social media channels
• Development and implementation of an effective social media strategy including a calendar for the posting of relevant content across major platforms
• Media engagement strategy including the development and distribution of media releases and managing media reach out and follow up

Create opportunities for success and brand engagement

• Supporting marketing and event related activities
• Development and implementation of branding events including Meet the Researcher series, donor engagement events

Stakeholder engagement

• Manage relationships with external partners such as public relations advisor, graphic designer, print company, and advertising agency
• Development of collaborative communications with partner organisations

Why would you work with WIMR?

• Be part of an organisation that has a strong foundation of encouraging curious, solution focused thinking and collaboration
• The incredible pride that comes with supporting a team who are literally striving to change the world and save lives
• Beautiful building incorporating professional cafe, bike storage facilities, showering facilities, world class equipment and facilities
• Hybrid work arrangements
• Close to public transport / on-site parking
• NFP ability to salary sacrifice for tax benefits
• Option for novated leasing
• Paid parental leave program
• Access to employee assistance program

All applications will be reviewed but only applications that meet the selection criteria will be considered for short-listing.

We celebrate and embrace diversity and we welcome applications from diverse backgrounds and cultures.