Group Manager Communications

at  SOUTH32

This is a full-time, permanent position with global flexibility. It is a key leadership role within the External Affairs function, accountable for group-wide Internal Communications, External Communications (including brand and corporate sponsorships) and Media. The position leads a team of 11 people (including three direct reports), and reports to the Vice President External Affairs based in Perth. The role is open to candidates from any location in which South32 has an existing presence. For the ideal candidate considering or seeking relocation, support may be available.
The Group Manager, Communications leads the direction and management of South32’s global communications and media activities. This role is critical in shaping the group’s profile and narrative across print, digital and other media channels, consistent with our purpose, strategy and values.
In this role you will collaborate with leadership and your team to craft and deliver strategic messaging that resonates with our stakeholders. Your expertise will be instrumental in elevating South32’s brand and reputation externally, as well as winning hearts and minds across our business through effective internal communications. You will play a vital part in promoting and safeguarding the South32 brand, and ensuring our organisation’s voice is heard and respected in the global arena.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and executing effective communications strategy across Internal Communications, External Communications (including brand and corporate sponsorships) and Media.
• Leading the provision of South32’s communications, including internal communications (e.g. CEO and other executive communications, and the South32 intranet), crisis communications, incident and issues management, media engagements and monitoring, website and social media content, and communications input into market announcements and statutory reporting.
• Determining and securing appropriate speaking engagements and media interviews, supported by compelling and cohesive corporate narratives and speech materials which articulate South32’s achievements, positions and future direction.
• Overseeing global brand development and governance, and defining South32’s sponsorship approach.
• Collaborating with and advising site and regionally-based External Affairs teams on the implementation of communications activities aligned with the corporate narrative.