A newly created government department, supporting millions of citizen interactions annually and operating at multi-billion-dollar scale, was tasked with driving major reform and improving trust. With ambitious change, heightened public expectations and multiple portfolios to manage, the organisation needed a strong communications function from day one. Without this, the risk was inconsistent messaging and missed opportunities to build credibility during transformation.
The executive team required a Chief Communications Officer to design and lead a progressive communications function. The role demanded deep government knowledge, proven communications leadership and the credibility to work closely with Ministers, senior leaders and the wider community. For Hope & Glory, this was an opportunity to demonstrate the impact of specialist recruitment in marketing, media and communications at the highest level.
We worked with senior stakeholders to refine the brief and clarify the leadership qualities required. Market mapping focused on executives with both public sector and large-scale organisational experience. Discreet approaches and structured assessments ensured candidates were evaluated on capability, political fluency and cultural alignment. Regular updates and clear advice kept the process rigorous, transparent and aligned to organisational priorities.
The appointment of the Chief Communications Officer gave the department the leadership required to shape identity, unify messaging and strengthen public trust. This longstanding placement has guided strategy, supported Ministers and embedded communications excellence. The result: a communications function that underpins transformation and drives long-term influence.
“Securing a foundation leader for a new government department demanded discretion, deep insight and the ability to balance strategic ambition with cultural fit. This appointment showed the value of specialist recruitment in marketing, media and communications at the very top of government.”
– Matt Harrison, Hope & Glory
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