Location: Sydney (office-based)  

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

Be the voice for 26 million Australians in the energy transition.

Energy Consumers Australia is seeking an exceptional leader to drive our public affairs and strategic planning functions at a pivotal moment in Australia's energy transformation.

As the independent national voice for residential and small business energy consumers, ECA is ready to shift gears -from respected researcher to powerful advocate. We need a General Manager who can amplify our voice and ensure consumers are at the heart of every major energy decision.

The Opportunity

This unique role combines strategic communications leadership with responsibility for our nationally significant planning processes. You'll lead a team of passionate professionals, shape public discourse on energy affordability and fairness, and build coalitions that drive real change for Australian households and small businesses.

Key Responsibilities

  • Transform ECA's public presence through strategic communications, media and campaigns
  • Build effective and influential relationships with ministers, parliamentarians and key stakeholders across all jurisdictions
  • Track and amplify impact of ECA’s 3-year strategic plan
  • Position ECA as the 'go-to' voice on consumer energy issues
  • Drive a campaigning mindset while maintaining our reputation for rigorous, evidence-based advocacy.

About You

You're a strategic communicator with political acuity and a passion for consumer advocacy. You might come from:

  • Senior public affairs or communications in complex environments
  • Government relations or ministerial offices
  • Strategic planning in regulated sectors
  • Campaign leadership in advocacy organisations.

You'll bring exceptional communication skills, proven stakeholder influence, and the ability to translate complexity into compelling narratives. Experience in energy, climate or infrastructure sectors is valuable but not essential - your ability to quickly master complex issues and drive change matters most.

  • Personal Attributes
  • Visionary yet practical
  • Collaborative but willing to challenge
  • Creative and proactive
  • Resilient with strong political instincts
  • Comfortable with ambiguity and rapid change.

Why This Matters

The energy transition will reshape how every Australian household, and small business accesses and affords energy. This role ensures consumer voices aren't just heard but are central to decisions that will impact affordability, reliability and fairness for decades to come.

Join an organisation ready to be bolder, more visible, and more influential. Help ECA build an energy system that works for everyone, not just those with resources to navigate complexity.

How to Apply

Download an Information Pack by entering your details below and pressing the 'Submit' button. The pack will then load in your web browser for you to download.

Searchlight Group is managing this appointment. For a confidential discussion, contact Michael Holdway on 0400 006 513.

Applications close: September 24th, 2025

Energy Consumers Australia is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.

For more information about ECA: https://energyconsumersaustralia.com.au/

 

Additional Information

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