Director of Community Engagement: Redlands (NSW)

Redlands is a leading independent, co-educational P–12 school offering both the HSC and IBDP pathways. It is recognised for its dynamic, research-informed teaching practice and contemporary approach to education. Grounded in the Anglican tradition, Redlands equips students with the skills and character to achieve life-readiness and to “let their light shine.” Redlands is a values-led, purpose-driven workplace where people are the most important asset. With a strong culture of care and collaboration, the School fosters an environment where staff feel supported, inspired and connected. Innovation is embraced, and fresh ideas that enhance learning and leadership are welcomed. Staff at Redlands benefit from a rich and rewarding professional experience. Engagement, wellbeing and personal growth are prioritised, with individualised development pathways, peer mentoring and leadership coaching all part of the offering. New staff are welcomed into a thriving, inclusive community where they are empowered to contribute meaningfully from day one. Redlands is a place to grow, thrive and belong – an innovative, connected learning community where all staff are supported to make a lasting difference.

Closing date September 2, 2026
Location 80 Dorcas Street,, Southbank VIC, Australia
Type Full-Time
Status Permanent
Contact Michael Bignill
michael.bignill@hutton.education

About this job

Reporting directly to the Principal and serving as a member of the Executive Team, the Director of Community Engagement will provide strategic leadership across marketing and communications, brand positioning, enrolments and admissions, philanthropy, alumni engagement, community relations, events and archives. The Director will act as a trusted adviser to the Principal and Executive on matters affecting reputation, stakeholder confidence, community sentiment and sustainable growth.

This influential role will bring cohesion, strategic alignment and accountability to a broad portfolio supported by a capable and recently renewed team. As one of the School’s chief storytellers and ambassadors, the Director will strengthen relationships across the Redlands community, articulate the School’s distinctive educational offering and translate long-term strategy into measurable outcomes. Priorities include supporting a significant brand refresh, strengthening enrolment attraction and retention, advancing philanthropy and building enduring engagement with families, alumni, donors and community partners.

Key Selection Criteria

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:

  • Ability to inspire confidence and strengthen relationships across the School community through authentic leadership, outstanding communication and a deep commitment to the values and vision of Redlands.
  • Experience in leading strategic initiatives across marketing, communications, enrolments, philanthropy and community engagement that enhance reputation and deliver measurable outcomes.
  • Expertise in driving innovation, organisational improvement and change through strategic thinking, collaboration and disciplined execution.
  • Commitment to developing high-performing teams by fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, professional growth and continuous improvement.
  • Proven Executive leadership experience in managing complex portfolios, aligning operational priorities with strategic objectives and delivering organisational excellence.
  • Exceptional relationship-building skills with the ability to engage, influence and build trusted partnerships with parents, alumni, donors, staff and the broader community.

The successful candidate will also have:

  • A relevant tertiary qualification in communications, marketing, public relations, business, stakeholder engagement or a related discipline, and/or equivalent executive leadership experience
  • Experience leading teams, managing budgets and driving organisational improvement
  • High levels of digital literacy, including experience with CRM systems, marketing analytics and communication platforms
  • Excellent organisational, communication and project management skills
  • Contemporary knowledge of child safeguarding obligations and responsibilities, with a commitment to supporting a strong safeguarding culture
  • The right to work in Australia
  • Clearance to work with children through a current Working with Children Check

Desirable

  • Experience in, or a strong understanding of, the independent school sector
  • Experience across several functions within the Community Engagement portfolio

How to Apply

Redlands is partnering with Hutton Consulting Australia in the search and selection process for this position. Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact the lead consultant, Michael Bignill at michael.bignill@hutton.education  for a confidential discussion and to request the Candidate Information Pack.

Redlands staff comply with the School’s child safety policies and related procedures, upholding the principles and values of relevant legislative frameworks. Redlands maintains a zero-tolerance policy for child abuse and is committed to the wellbeing and protection of children in its care.

Applications close: 5.00pm (AEST), Wednesday 2 September 2026.

Please ONLY APPLY via Hutton Consulting Australia’s website:
https://hutton.education/opportunities

Applications submitted directly through SEEK or LinkedIn will not be considered.