Key responsibilities include:

• Deliver a corporate public affairs strategy for MLA on behalf of stakeholders and the red meat industry aligned with MLA’s Annual Investment Plan (AIP) and Strategic Plan;
• Effectively manage MLA’s media activities as well as building strong relationships in traditional and non-traditional media and adopt a proactive and well as reactive media reach approach;
• Oversee the day to day management of the Industry Corporate Affairs Unit (ICAU), including ICAU staff;
• Oversee the strategy to effectively engage with key industry stakeholders including all Peak Industry Body (PIB) engagement and consultation and MLA key account management;
• Identify, develop and manage opportunities for MLA Leadership team and senior leaders to contribute to industry debate, news commentary and similar forums of influence
• Manage media training for MLA and industry;
• Lead crisis and issues management for MLA - and the wider red meat supply chain as required via the Industry Corporate Affairs Unit (ICAU);
• Manage MLA’s ‘key issues briefing’ function and develop talking points. Maintain a close understanding of MLA’s operating environment in order to develop responses and mitigate risk;
• Manage the execution of crisis communications plans for MLA and key stakeholders;
• Work closely with other parts of the business to manage the relationship with key stakeholders including Federal Government, Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment and Peak Industry Bodies;
• Act as senior liaison for key industry stakeholders as identified in the Key Account Management Plan and develop and maintain effective networks;
• The role is required to undertake travel and attend events outside of traditional work hours; and
• Identify, develop and manage opportunities for the Managing Director and MLA senior leaders to contribute to industry debate, news commentary and similar forums of influence

Our ideal Group Manager - Corporate Affairs and Media has:

• Excellent communicator with experience in public relations, media and corporate affairs
• Highly developed communication and writing skills
• The ability to identify and analyse issues, and develop and implement effective communication and issues management plans
• Highly developed influencing skills and proven ability to build networks and foster effective partnerships
• Strong understanding of Australia’s red meat industry, its operations and major stakeholders
• Strong understanding of Australia’s media environment on a national and regional level
• Experience in managing and mentoring a team of communications specialists
• Tertiary qualifications in communications or related discipline or the equivalent experience

The successful candidate will be required to hold an appropriate visa/residency status for full time employment in Australia. For more information refer to the position description. Apply now via the link to submit your application (incl. resume).

What’s on offer?

The Australian red meat and livestock industry is passionate about caring about our animals, land, people and communities. Working together, we strive to push boundaries and continuously improve to ensure prosperity for the Australian red meat and livestock industry. We are focused on delivering world leading outcomes that fuel global competitiveness, sustainability and producer profitability

At Meat & Livestock Australia we offer a flexible hybrid work environment and benefits including paid parental leave, wellbeing support, rebatable employer salary packaging and social club activities. You'll learn on the job in a supportive environment and have access to learning and development opportunities so that you can continue to grow and develop your career.

Who are we?

Meat & Livestock Australia is a service provider to the Australian red meat and livestock industry. We work in partnership with industry and the Australian Government to deliver marketing, research and development products and services to beef, sheep and goat producers, with the core purpose to deliver world leading outcomes that fuel global competitiveness, sustainability and producer profitability.​ The Australian red meat and livestock industry makes a significant contribution to the economy and livelihoods of many Australians.  Australian red meat is produced sustainably, in high welfare systems and is an important part of a healthy balanced diet.

Applications close: 14 November 2025

If you have a question in relation to the advertised position, contact the Human Resources team by emailing careers@mla.com.au

Candidate screening and interviews may be conducted prior to the closing date of the advertisement. MLA reserves the right to close applications for the position prior to the advertised date. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.

POSITION DESCRIPTION