Manager, Stakeholder Relations and Communications

Manager, Stakeholder Relations and Communications Join to apply for the Manager, Stakeholder Relations and Communications role at the Level Crossing Removal Project . Base pay range: A$138,631.00/yr – A$185,518.00/yr. We are seeking a Manager to join the North West Program Alliance (NWPA) based in Albion. The role supports the Melton Level Crossing Removal Project, the Melton Line Upgrade and the Sunshine Superhub (Metro package). It leads a team of communications professionals, developing strategic advice on communication and engagement in a complex, issues‑rich environment and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to drive project success. Responsibilities Provide authoritative and strategic advice on multiple project issues to departmental executives, Ministerial Advisors and other internal teams. Manage and develop compelling, high‑quality communications plans and materials. Build effective working relationships between internal and external cross‑agency teams to ensure an integrated approach to public affairs, media liaison and communications matters. Lead the communications and stakeholder relations team, providing coaching, development and support. Proactively identify and respond to issues and risks associated with the project, developing mitigation strategies in consultation with senior management. About you Experienced leader who builds high‑performing teams and provides performance feedback, resolves conflict, and mentors. Skilled in issues management with a risk radar and ability to develop mitigation strategies. Effective communicator, strong writer, and able to prioritize work consistently. Extensive experience in communications and media management, consistently identifying opportunities to promote project benefits. Committed to continuous improvement and adopting efficient ways of working. Strategic and commercial mindset with a big‑picture view of project complexities. Strong influencing and negotiating skills to create buy‑in and support with colleagues and stakeholders. Visionary and inspiring, capable of creating a sense of direction and motivating others to achieve high performance. Relevant tertiary qualification and experience in a project‑based communications or stakeholder relations capacity. Experience managing the interface with project construction teams on communications and stakeholder relations issues is highly regarded. About VIDA Rail VIDA Rail — formerly the Level Crossing Removal Project — is proud to continue Melbourne’s rail infrastructure projects, including the Level Crossing Removal Project, Melbourne Airport Rail and Big Build Rail projects. We embrace diversity and inclusion, actively encouraging applications from people of any age, disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status, culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and LGBTIQ+ identities. Adjustments will be made to the recruitment process where necessary. Benefits and Work Arrangement This is a 3‑year fixed‑term, full‑time position with a salary in the range above plus superannuation. The role offers a hybrid working arrangement: two days from the Albion office (Monday and Wednesday), one day from 121 Exhibition Street (Thursday) or project site offices, and the remaining days from home. Application Process To apply, submit your CV only – no cover letter required. Following CV review, you will be asked to answer three written questions (max 200 words each). Successful candidates will proceed to a phone screen and an interview in mid‑January. Applicants must be Australian Citizens, Permanent Residents or hold a valid work permit or visa. The successful candidate will be required to undergo pre‑employment checks, including national police checks and misconduct screening. Please note, interviews will take place mid to late January 2026. For specific recruitment process details or accommodations, contact Daniel Fedyshyn (Senior Talent Acquisition Adviser) via LinkedIn. #J-18808-Ljbffr