Manager External Affairs

DISCOVER A BRIGHTER FUTURE 

At South32, we’re meeting the challenge of enabling a sustainable future through our focus on responsibly producing commodities critical for a low-carbon world.

As a collaborative, caring and inclusive company, there’s no better place to make a genuine difference. Together we’re making a positive, global impact that has the potential to change lives.

Whatever career path you choose, we’ll support you every step of the way to learn, grow and succeed. So join us, step towards a brighter future and leave your legacy.

ABOUT CANNINGTON 

Our Cannington operation is one of the world's largest producers of silver and lead.  Located in northwest Queensland, Cannington boasts an underground mine and processing facility situated approximately 800 kilometres west of Townsville and a concentrate handling facility at the Port of Townsville.

Flights are direct to the onsite airport, and the mine is only 3.5 km from camp—the perfect distance for a sunset walk or run home along a purpose-built walking track. The onsite accommodation includes meal services, sports/gym facilities, swimming pool, music room, and social area.

WHAT SOUTH32 OFFERS

• 26 weeks full-paid, or 52 weeks half-paid parental leave for primary carers
• Ability to purchase up to 4 weeks of additional annual leave
• Flexible work options include working from home
• The opportunity to become a shareholder of South32 through our share plans
• Options for additional superannuation contributions 

ABOUT THE ROLE 

This is a Permanent Monday to Friday position based out of Brisbane or Townsville, with regular site travel to our Cannington operation.

As the Manager External Affairs, you will be responsible for protecting and enhancing the organisation’s reputation, leading social performance and communications strategies, and ensuring strong and sustainable stakeholder relationships that support Cannington’s licence to operate.

Other key responsibilities include, but aren’t limited to: 

• Lead delivery of social performance, communications & community investment strategies
• Represent the operation in forums, government engagement & regulatory processes
• Identify & manage reputational risk aligned with business strategy & safety culture
• Guide, mentor & lead a small team to support social impact and communication outcomes

ABOUT YOU 

You will have experience and demonstrate capability in the following: 

• Significant leadership experience in External Affairs, Communications or Social Performance
• Proven ability to manage reputational risk, media issues and complex stakeholder engagement
• Strong background in social performance, government relations and community investment
• Demonstrated success building trusted relationships across all organisational levels and externally
• Mining or industrial sector experience essential; closure planning highly regarded

Qualifications for this position are: 

• Tertiary qualification in Communications, Public Relations, Social Performance or similar
• Valid driver’s licence

South32 is committed to building and maintaining an inclusive and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate.  We provide a recruitment process that is fair, equitable and accessible for all and we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

This job advert will close on Thursday 24th July 2025.