Introduction:
ACEREZ is the appointed Network Operator for the Central‑West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (CWO REZ) - Australia’s first REZ and a nationally significant infrastructure program. ACEREZ Maintenance and Lifecycle (M&L) Contractor is responsible for maintaining the network assets for the duration of the 35-year term. We are recruiting a Community & Stakeholder Manager to join our ACEREZ M&L team on a full-time permanent basis, long term offices located in Mudgee.
Description:
THE OPPORTUNITY
This role leads stakeholder and community engagement across the business, building trusted relationships with landholders, government bodies industry partners and the wider community. You'll develop and deliver management plans, lead relationships with landholders, and advise the team on stakeholder risks and opportunities - working closely with the General Manager and other project senior leaders to resolve issues early and protect ACEREZ's reputation.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position will:
Develop and deliver related Project Plans for the Operations Activities
Build and maintain strong relationships with the Network Operator, landholders, government bodies, industry partners and the community, acting as primary point of contact for enquiries Represent ACEREZ M&L at community forums, briefings and consultation activities
Manage access approvals, statutory notifications, business reporting and engagement records in line with contractual requirements
Manage landowner first-response contacts. Overseeing complaints, enquiries and call line channels.
Monitor community sentiment and emerging issues, escalating risks and developing mitigation strategies and key messages to protect ACEREZ's reputation
Lead community investment and sponsorship activity, ensuring delivery of community and stakeholder education programs
Contribute to clear, audience-appropriate content across digital, print and social channels, including newsletters and community updates, provided by the Network Operator
Support and guide the team to deliver positive stakeholder and community outcomes
Skills and Experiences:
SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
Degree in Public Relations, Planning, Management or a related field (desirable)
Significant experience in stakeholder and community engagement on construction or operations of infrastructure projects (essential)
Demonstrated ability to manage sensitive issues and competing stakeholder interests in a fast-paced environment (essential)
Sound judgement, strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to influence and negotiate
Clear, confident verbal communication, including in challenging settings
Full NSW Driver’s Licence
KEY ATTRIBUTES
Proactive and community-focused, with a track record of delivering quality outcomes to agreed timeframes
Flexible and resourceful, balancing strategic thinking with hands-on delivery
Strong relationship-builder across all stakeholder levels, with cultural awareness and adaptability
Sound judgement balancing risk, reputation and practical outcomes
Constructive leadership skills - able to influence, support and bring others along
Team-first mindset — humble, self-motivated, and aware of group dynamics and impact
LOCATION & FLEXIBILITY
Based in Mudgee with hybrid working options available
Get out and about – travel across the Renewable Energy Zone, with a company vehicle included
