Head of Media Strategy

Fairness feels good 

Make a real impact at AFCA. Where fairness drives every decision. Help us deliver world-class, independent complaints resolution for Australians. As a not-for-profit and progressive financial ombudsman, we’re championing positive change. Achieving our purpose takes progressive thinking, accountability and resilience. At AFCA, our inclusive leadership values every voice. We offer our people flexible work options, thoughtful benefits and opportunities to deepen expertise. Flourish in a diverse, caring culture. Feel the difference of belonging to an organisation intentionally designed to put people first. 

Are you a strategic media leader who knows how to shape the narrative, build influence, and make a real difference? AFCA is seeking a dynamic Head of Media Strategy to lead the next steps in the development, implementation, and continuous evolution of an integrated media strategy that enhances our reputation, amplifies our voice, and exerts strategic influence - not only in traditional media, but in the digital-first spaces where conversations are happening and opinions are being formed.

This is a career-defining opportunity to lead AFCA’s media strategy across both traditional and emerging digital channels — and to build real influence by shaping the conversations that matter.

You won’t be maintaining an existing strategy — you’ll be building it. You’ll have real autonomy, strategic influence, and a direct line to senior decision-makers. And you’ll lead the charge in taking AFCA beyond traditional media.

Leading a small team and reporting into the EGM Communication, Engagement and Brand, this role will deal within an issues rich environment and involve direct contact with the CEO, C-Suite and Board. You’ll also shape AFCA’s media strategy for one of the most significant national initiatives right now  - the Scams Prevention Framework which is tackling the response to financial scams that affect millions of Australians.

Key responsibilities include:

• Develop and execute media strategy: Develop and deliver AFCA’s integrated media strategy — spanning traditional media, digital platforms, and emerging channels.
• Cultivate relationships: Position AFCA as a courageous, credible voice by building relationships with consumer and industry media, digital influencers, and thought leaders.
• Strategic counsel: Provide high-level strategic counsel to AFCA’s Executive, Board, and senior management on media engagement, sentiment, and crisis communication.
• Shape the conversation: Lead proactive media campaigns and issues management that strengthen AFCA’s public voice and drive meaningful public dialogue.
• Digital platforms strategy: Define and lead AFCA’s entry into appropriate nontraditional media channels including social media, podcasts, webinars, digital content, and partnerships.
• Innovative content creation: Champion the creation of engaging digital content—such as interactive media, video storytelling, and immersive experiences—that resonates with diverse audiences.
• Performance tracking: Track what matters — share of voice, reach, sentiment, and engagement — and continuously refine strategies for maximum impact.
• Team leadership: Mentor a small, talented media team and collaborate closely with stakeholders across the organisation.
• Trend monitoring: Continuously monitor media trends and industry best practices to ensure AFCA’s media strategy remains effective.

To be successful in this role, you will need:

• Proven experience in senior media leadership roles, ideally in complex, fast-moving or regulated environments.
• A strategic mindset and a passion for building influence, not just coverage — across both traditional and emerging media channels.
• Experience developing and delivering integrated media strategies, including in nontraditional and digital spaces.
• Strong understanding of risk, issues management, and crisis communication.
• Creativity and courage in shaping narratives and public dialogue.
• Excellent leadership skills, with the ability to build a high-performing, purpose-driven team.
• Knowledge of financial services or consumer advocacy is a plus but not essential.
• Tertiary qualifications in Communications, Public Relations, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

What's on offer

• BOSS Best Places to Work 2024 –credited for its culture, engagement and flexible working arrangements. 
• Most Inclusive Workplace 2024 – Australian HR Institute (AHRI) Awards. 
• Employer of Choice Public Sector and NFP – Australian HR Awards 2023 
• Bronze AWEI Accreditation 2024 – Recognised for LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. 
• Accredited Family Friendly Workplace – Supporting work-life balance and inclusivity. 
• Hybrid working – Flexible arrangements with state-of-the-art offices designed for collaboration and wellbeing. 
• Inclusive leave options – Flexible public holidays, 20 weeks paid parental leave, gender affirmation leave, women’s health leave, and paid time off over Christmas. 
• Financial benefits – Not-for-profit salary packaging to boost take-home pay. 
• Locations – A team of over 1,200 dedicated professionals based in modern Melbourne and Sydney CBD offices. 

To apply

If you’re passionate about fairness and believe your skills align with this role, we encourage you to apply—even if you don’t meet every single criterion. 

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities. If you require any accessibility support during the recruitment process, please reach out to our team at [email protected]. 

AFCA is a 2025 Circle Back Initiative Employer - we are committed to responding to every applicant.