Communications Manager

About Us

St. Vincent?s Institute of Medical Research (SVI) is located on the campus of St. Vincent?s Hospital Melbourne, is affiliated with The University of Melbourne, and operates proudly in one of the world?s most dynamic biomedical hubs.

For more than 60 years, scientists at SVI have been inspired by discovery and driven by purpose. Our team of 250 staff and students work collaboratively to tackle some of the most critical health challenges facing society today, including cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease and dementia. We celebrate fundamental biological discovery and practical application alike because both are required to improve the treatment, diagnosis and prevention of disease. There are no breakthroughs, no new wonder drugs, no big leaps forward, without new understanding.

The Role

SVI are seeking an experienced Communications Manager to join our Professional Services team on a full-time, fixed-term basis, with a view to transitioning to an ongoing position.

The role is responsible for elevating SVI?s brand, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and ensuring consistent, purposeful internal and external communications. This includes managing communications campaigns and content across social media channels; working with our researchers to identify and translate research stories for varied audiences; supporting SVI Foundation communications, fundraising and donor stewardship; and coordinating communications for events, partnerships and community engagement.

You will lead the development and delivery of SVI?s Communications Plan, drive digital and media strategy, and produce compelling content that strengthens research impact, philanthropy, organisational engagement and SVI?s reputation.

Please refer to the attached position description for a fuller description of responsibilities.

Who we are seeking

The ideal candidate for the role will have:

• Tertiary qualification in public policy, communications, business, or related field.
• Prior experience in government relations, stakeholder engagement, or public affairs.
• Strong understanding of the health and medical research sector.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to translate complex scientific information into clear messages for different audiences and channels.
• Well-developed networking and influence skills.
• Strong strategic thinking and relationship management skills.
• Outstanding planning and organising abilities; capable of managing multiple tasks and competing priorities.

To be considered for this ongoing role, you will be required to provide evidence you have permanent working rights in Australia. You will also be asked to supply a nationally coordinated criminal history check.

Salary: $106,322-$115,088 per annum, plus 12% superannuation. Salary applied will be dependent upon successful candidates? current level, experience and qualifications. In addition to your base salary, we offer up to $15,900 FBT exempt salary packaging and up to $2,650 FBT exempt meals and entertainment packaging.

To apply: Applications must be made through our recruitment portal. Please ensure you include the following below documents:

1. Current CV and;
2. Cover letter addressed to Dr Anne Johnston briefly summarising your interest in the role and specifying how your experience fits with the criteria under 'Who we are seeking' listed above.

Applications Close Friday 28th August 2026, however, applications will be considered as they arrive, and the position may be filled ahead of the closing date.