Volunteer Communications & Engagement Manager

Volunteer Communications & Engagement Manager

• Abbotsford location
• 12-month contract, full-time onsite
• Lead volunteer engagement strategy and delivery

Wildlife Victoria is a not-for-profit organisation that has provided a statewide wildlife emergency response service since 1989. Their 24/7 Emergency Response Service responds to over 160,000 calls a year, coordinating help for sick, injured, and orphaned native animals across more than 450 species. Wildlife Victoria provides critical support to wildlife through rescue, transport, and rehabilitation services, all free to the Victorian public. Their work is driven by a deep commitment to animal welfare, biodiversity, and community education.

Wildlife Victoria is seeking a motivated and people-focused Volunteer Communications & Engagement Manager to lead the development and delivery of engagement strategies for their 1,400-strong statewide volunteer network.

In this newly created role, you’ll report to the Head of People and work closely with external relations colleagues to design and implement a communications and engagement strategy that connects, recognises, and inspires our volunteers. This is a hands-on role, suited to someone who enjoys engaging directly with people – regularly meeting volunteers in the field, gathering their stories, and building strong relationships to support volunteer connection and retention.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a volunteer communications and engagement strategy and annual plan
• Lead the design and rollout of internal communications, recognition programs, and social content
• Build systems and forums that foster volunteer connection and collaboration
• Create and promote a compelling Volunteer Value Proposition to support recruitment and retention
• Source and share stories from training events and in-field visits
• Collaborate with colleagues to align branding, training materials and communications
• Support volunteer reward initiatives, partnerships, and events

Key selection criteria:

• A strong communicator with proven experience developing content and engagement strategies
• Experience developing communications and/or reward strategies and working closely with volunteers to implement programs that deliver the strategy
• Confident working independently and visiting volunteers in person across Victoria
• Resilient, driven, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, values-driven environment
• Passionate about wildlife and volunteerism
• Skilled in social media and internal comms platforms, with excellent writing skills
• Comfortable working occasional evenings or weekends as required

This is a rare opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a well-respected not-for-profit and help shape the future of volunteer engagement in wildlife rescue.

Apply now:

To apply, please upload your cover letter and CV in one PDF document via the link. For enquiries please call Gabrielle Patterson on 0416 170 100 or email gab@pattersonrecruitment.com.au

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected and valued. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent individuals, and people of all backgrounds. We believe that diverse perspectives and experiences enrich our workplace and drive our success. If you require any accommodations during the application or interview process, please let us know, and we will ensure your needs are met.