Job Title:  Strategic Communications Lead

• Adelaide, Canberra or Melbourne

QinetiQ is a global technology and engineering company that exists to protect lives and secure the future. We deliver mission-critical services and systems to Defence, national security, and essential industry. 

Our determination to deliver and improve today, and anticipate and improve tomorrow, makes QinetiQ a very exciting and rewarding place to work and learn. 

If you're driven by purpose, passionate about solving complex problems, and ready to make a real impact, there’s never been a better time to join us.

With a presence in the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Canada and Germany, we bring global expertise to local challenges, helping build Australia’s sovereign industrial capability for the future.

We are excited to welcome applications for a new role in our national Corporate Affairs Team.  Reporting to the Australia Sector Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, the Strategic Communications Lead will play a key role in shaping and delivering impactful communications that engage employees and enhance organisational reputation.

In terms of location, we are flexible to consider applicants in Adelaide, Canberra or Melbourne.

As the successful applicant, you will develop and execute QinetiQ Australia’s internal communications strategy, ensuring alignment with business priorities while strengthening employee engagement, visibility, and trust. You will also contribute more broadly to overall communications activities and will provide mentorship and guidance to others within the team.

In terms of key accountabilities, this role will see you:

• Lead the development and delivery of a strategic internal communications program that supports QinetiQ Australia’s business objectives
• Oversee planning and execution of communications across multiple channels, including internal platforms, media, events, campaigns, partnerships, and digital channels
• Provide leadership and guidance to the communications team, ensuring consistency, quality, and alignment in all messaging
• Partner closely with senior stakeholders to provide strategic advice on communication approaches, reputation management, and issue response
• Translate complex business priorities into clear, engaging communications tailored to employees, customers, and partners
• Coordinate and integrate communication activities to ensure a cohesive approach across internal and external communications
• Lead employee communications campaigns and initiatives that support and enhance the employee value proposition
• Leverage employee feedback and insights to continuously improve communication effectiveness and engagement

About You:

You are a strategic and hands-on communications professional with strong leadership capability a proven ability in the delivery of high-quality, impactful communications. You thrive in a fast-paced environment and relish multi-tasking whilst also effectively influencing senior stakeholders and guiding others to deliver consistent and effective messaging.

Key to your success:

• Tertiary qualifications in communications, marketing or a related field
• A depth of experience in communications, particularly within internal communications
• Experience of successful delivery in multi- stakeholder environments
• Experience in editing and updating intranet/web content and analysing web analytics and in delivering events (virtual and in-person)
• A proven ability to coach, mentor and guide others

Due to the nature of the role, applicants must be eligible for Australian Defence security clearance.

Whilst not essential, Defence industry or adjacent industry experience is preferred.

Whilst applications must be made online, confidential enquiries are welcome and may be directed to Cathy Riach, Sector Talent Acquisition Leader (clriach@qinetiq.com.au).  A position description is available upon request.

Applications close Friday 29 May, 2026.

Looking for an Employer with Benefits?

At QinetiQ, our competitive remuneration and benefits package supports your evolving needs throughout your career.   You’ll share in the company’s success, and be rewarded for your own. We’ll invest in your professional development and provide an inclusive environment for you to succeed.

Some of our benefits include:

• Access to LinkedIn Learning
• Flexible work
• Purchased leave program & loyalty leave
• Up to 18 weeks paid parental leave
• Annual incentive scheme
• Complimentary salary continuance insurance
• Annual volunteering leave with Operation Give Back
• Relaxed dress code

As the defence industry in Australia grows, it is an exciting time to join QinetiQ. What the company looks like today will be different to that of tomorrow as we navigate an ever changing world. To innovate for our customers' advantage we value the need for diversity of thought in everything we do. We provide a flexible and inclusive environment where our people can bring their whole selves to work, meaningfully contribute and have equal opportunity to succeed. We actively seek applications from people who come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Aligned with our Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Reconciliation Action Plan, we also encourage applications from women, veterans and First Nations people. 

QinetiQ conducts pre-employment screening, including but not limited to identity verification and police checks, for all preferred candidates.

#LI-Hybrid 

#LI-CR1