Rebecca gives us insight into her career as a Communications Manager in the Department of Education and Youth.
Please tell us a little bit about your role.
As a Communications Manager in the Department of Education and Youth, I lead the development and implementation of communication strategies that support key policies, programmes, and initiatives. My role involves everything from crafting clear and accessible messaging for diverse audiences to managing media relations, events, digital content, stakeholder engagement, and internal communications. I work closely with a range of different stakeholders to ensure our messaging reflects the priorities and values of the department, and ultimately supports better outcomes for children, young people and school communities across the country.
What were your reasons for applying for your role?
I applied for this role as a natural step in my career progression. It offered the chance to build on my existing experience in communications while expanding my skills in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and policy-focused messaging. I was also looking for an opportunity that would challenge me professionally and help me grow within the public sector. The role provided the ideal platform to upskill, take on greater responsibility, and contribute to meaningful work in the education and youth space.
What do you value most about your job?
What I value most about my job is the ability to contribute to work that has a real and lasting impact on young people and their futures. It’s rewarding to know that the messages we craft and the strategies we implement help inform, engage, and empower communities. I also value the opportunity to collaborate with passionate colleagues across the department, and the constant learning that comes from working in a dynamic and evolving policy environment. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to grow.
What are some of the benefits and supports available to you?
One of the key benefits of working in the Department of Education and Youth is access to ongoing professional development and upskilling opportunities—whether through formal training, mentoring, or on-the-job learning. There’s also strong support for flexible work arrangements, which helps maintain a healthy work-life balance. I’ve found the leadership to be supportive of career growth, and there are clear pathways for progression within the department. Being part of a values-driven, inclusive workplace has also made a big difference to my overall job satisfaction.
What opportunities has this role provided for you?
This role has provided me with valuable opportunities to broaden my strategic communication skills and take on more complex, high-impact projects. I’ve had the chance to work closely with senior leaders, contribute to major policy initiatives, and lead campaigns that reach diverse audiences across the education and youth sectors. It’s also allowed me to strengthen my leadership capabilities, expand my professional network, and gain a deeper understanding of government processes and policymaking. These experiences have been instrumental in my career development.
What has surprised you since starting this role?
What’s surprised me most since starting this role is just how varied and fast-paced the work can be. No two days are the same, and I’ve had to quickly adapt to shifting priorities and tight deadlines—often while juggling multiple stakeholders. I was also pleasantly surprised by the level of trust and responsibility I was given early on, which really accelerated my learning and confidence. Most of all, I’ve been struck by how passionate and collaborative the people are—it’s a genuinely supportive environment.
What aspect of the role do you particularly enjoy?
I particularly enjoy the storytelling aspect of the role—translating complex policy or programme information into clear, engaging messages that resonate with different audiences. It’s rewarding to see communications make a tangible difference in how people understand and interact with the work of the department. I also enjoy the collaborative nature of the role—working with passionate colleagues, subject matter experts, and stakeholders to deliver impactful campaigns and initiatives. That mix of creativity, strategy, and purpose is what keeps the role fulfilling.
Would you recommend a career in the public sector and why?
Absolutely! The public sector offers strong job stability, clear pathways for career progression, and a supportive environment for professional development. For anyone who wants to make a positive impact while building a long-term career, it’s a great place to be.
Anything else you would like to share?
This role has not only helped me grow professionally but has also deepened my passion for making a real difference in people’s lives—especially young people. The relationships I’ve built, the challenges I’ve overcome, and the constant learning have made this journey incredibly rewarding. If you’re someone who cares about meaningful work and personal growth, I’d encourage you to explore opportunities in this field—you might be surprised at how much you can grow and contribute.