Senior Manager - Extension & Communications

Senior Manager - Extension & Communications Birchip Cropping Group (BCG) drives the prosperity of Australian farmers, communities and landscapes through applied research and innovation. Established in 1992, BCG is a leader in farmer-driven research, development and extension, connecting science and practice to improve the resilience and profitability of Australian agriculture.

About BCG Birchip Cropping Group (BCG) drives the prosperity of Australian farmers, communities and landscapes through applied research and innovation. Established in 1992, BCG is a leader in farmer-driven research, development and extension, connecting science and practice to improve the resilience and profitability of Australian agriculture.

The Opportunity As part of the Senior Management Team, the Senior Manager – Communications & Extension leads a small, high‑performing team to deliver strategic communications and extension programs that inspire practice change. This position is ideal for a leader who combines vision, creativity, and a genuine connection to the agricultural community.

Key Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership across BCG’s communication and extension portfolio.

Oversee delivery of communication outputs including eNews, Technical Bulletin, Compendium, podcasts, media releases, website and social media.

Plan and manage major BCG events such as the Main Field Day and Trials Review Day.

Translate research outcomes into practical, farmer‑focused messages.

Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, media, researchers and partners.

Lead a motivated communications and extension team, fostering collaboration and capability.

Integrate monitoring and evaluation (MEL) frameworks to measure impact and inform continuous improvement.

Uphold and evolve BCG’s brand as an independent, credible source of agricultural knowledge.

About You You’re a confident communicator and relationship builder with a strong grasp of the grains industry and rural communities. You enjoy leading people, shaping narratives, and making a measurable difference for farmers.

Essential skills and experience:

Proven leadership experience in communications, agricultural extension, or related field.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills across a range of mediums.

Experience in media relations, digital storytelling, and stakeholder engagement.

Strong understanding of broadacre or mixed farming systems.

Demonstrated project and event management skills.

Strategic thinker with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.

Desirable:

Formal qualifications in communications, agricultural extension, or agricultural science.

Experience with digital platforms, podcasts, video, or AI‑assisted communication tools.

Training in leadership, stakeholder engagement, or project management.

Why Join BCG?

Lead a respected and innovative organisation shaping the future of Australian agriculture.

Work within a collaborative and supportive regional team environment.

Enjoy flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional growth.

Contribute directly to farmer prosperity and agricultural sustainability.

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