Marketing and Communications Manager – Australian Dental Association Queensland (ADAQ)

Windsor Group has been appointed by ADAQ to manage this executive search. As a profit‑for‑purpose organisation, we support our clients through ethical, values‑aligned recruitment across the nonprofit, government and commercial sectors. 

The Australian Dental Association Queensland (ADAQ) is the peak professional membership organisation representing dentists across Queensland. As a purpose-driven organisation, ADAQ supports members through professional development, advocacy, practice support services, networking opportunities and industry representation. 

Representing a highly skilled and professional membership base, ADAQ plays a critical role in supporting oral health outcomes across Queensland while advocating on behalf of the dental profession. With a renewed strategic focus under the leadership of CEO Ben Stockwin, the organisation is working to strengthen member engagement, enhance membership value and ensure long-term sustainability and growth. 

Links
Website
Annual Report
Strategic Plan
Operational Plan
Organisational Chart

ADAQ is entering an important period of transformation and growth. Following changes in leadership and a recent organisational review, the organisation has developed a clear strategic and operational plan focused on strengthening member engagement, increasing membership value and modernising how it connects with members. 

A recent marketing audit and member research project has provided valuable insights into member expectations and opportunities for future growth. While ADAQ continues to enjoy strong brand recognition and a respected position within the profession, members are seeking greater engagement, innovation and value from their membership experience. 

Key Strategic Priorities 

• Growing and retaining membership across all membership segments. 
• Improving student conversion and engagement with early-career professionals. 
• Enhancing the quality, relevance and attendance of continuing professional development programs and events. 
• Building stronger sponsorship and industry partnership revenue streams. 
• Expanding advocacy, government relations and public profile initiatives. 
• Creating a stronger sense of community, belonging and professional connection amongst members. 

The organisation recognises that younger members engage differently to established practitioners and is seeking innovative approaches to communication, engagement and value creation. The Marketing and Communications Manager will play a pivotal role in helping the organisation evolve its approach to member engagement while preserving the trusted reputation that ADAQ has built over many years.

This newly created role presents a unique opportunity for an experienced marketing and communications leader to influence the future direction of ADAQ. 

Reporting directly to the CEO, the Marketing and Communications Manager will lead the organisation’s marketing, communications and brand functions. The role is responsible for driving membership growth and retention, strengthening brand positioning, increasing member engagement, growing sponsorship opportunities and ensuring members clearly understand and value the benefits of belonging to ADAQ. 

The role combines strategic leadership with practical delivery and will suit a professional who enjoys developing innovative strategies while remaining actively involved in execution. 

The position currently leads a small, capable team of two direct reports and works closely with colleagues across membership services, education and organisational leadership. 

Key Priorities During the First 12 Months 

• Deliver marketing and communications initiatives aligned to the Strategic and Operational Plans 
• Increase member engagement across diverse member segments 
• Develop targeted strategies for students and emerging professionals 
• Grow event attendance, participation and sponsorship revenue 
• Strengthen media, public relations and stakeholder communications 
• Build stronger industry partnerships and external engagement opportunities 
• Support organisational growth through innovative, data-informed marketing practices 

This role offers significant autonomy and the opportunity to shape both the function and the organisational impact of marketing and communications. 

Download the Position Description

Strategy & Planning 

You will be an empowering and collaborative leader who builds trust, encourages initiative and supports the development of high-performing teams. Success will require the ability to provide strategic direction while enabling capable staff to excel in their respective areas of expertise. 

Operational or Technical Expertise 

Candidates should possess contemporary expertise across marketing, branding, communications, digital engagement, content development, campaigns, events and stakeholder communications. Experience working within membership organisations, professional associations or comparable environments will be particularly valuable. 

Stakeholder Engagement & Influence 

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong relationship-building skills and the ability to engage effectively with members, industry partners, sponsors, suppliers, executive stakeholders and external audiences. Experience managing partnerships and sponsorship relationships will be advantageous. 

Values, Integrity & Cultural Alignment 

ADAQ is seeking an innovative, professional and future-focused leader who embraces accountability, continuous improvement and collaboration. Candidates should demonstrate a genuine interest in supporting professional communities and fostering positive organisational culture. 

The ideal candidate will be an experienced marketing and communications professional who thrives in a membership-based environment and understands the challenges of attracting, engaging and retaining members. They will be commercially aware, strategically minded and confident operating in a small but influential leadership role. They will bring strong contemporary marketing expertise, coupled with the ability to build relationships, secure partnerships and influence organisational direction. Most importantly, they will be energised by the opportunity to help shape the future of a well-respected professional association and deliver meaningful outcomes for members and stakeholders alike. 

Windsor Group and ADAQ are committed to equal opportunity employment practices. Applications will be assessed on merit, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview. An offer of appointment will be made to the applicant whose written application and interview performance best demonstrate their ability to meet the requirements of the role. 

Windsor Group will review applications as they are received. We encourage early applications, as screening begins immediately. Process steps: 

• Initial screening by Windsor Group 
• Consultant interview 
• First-round interview with CEO 
• Final interview and stakeholder meeting 
• Assessments (if required) 
• Reference checks 

Indicative timeline: 

• Weeks 1–3: Screening 
• Week 4-5: Windsor Group interviews 

We will keep candidates updated throughout each stage. 

When submitting your application, ensure your application includes: 

• An up-to-date resume (in Word format) 
• A covering letter (in Word format) outlining your interest and expertise relevant to the role 

Submit your application quoting reference number KCMCMR to apply@windsor-group.com.au. For more information, please contact Kym Cheatham on 07 3211 0001.  

Your application will be acknowledged by email within one business day. 

View the live job advertisement here.