Principal Advisor WA Communities

About the role  

As Principal Advisor WA Communities, you will play a vital role in shaping and strengthening Rio Tinto Iron Ore’s relationship with the Western Australian communities in which we operate and live. You’ll lead a team of Communities and Social Performance (CSP) professionals, working in close partnership with asset leadership, Health Safety Environment & Community teams, and external stakeholders to maintain a strong social licence.  

By building trusted relationships in both our Pilbara and regional hub communities, delivering meaningful social investment, and driving strategic initiatives, you will help ensure our work makes a lasting, positive contribution to the sustainability and wellbeing of these communities. 

Reporting to the Manager Communities Social Performance (CSP) & Indigenous Support, you will;  

• Lead, coach and support a team of CSP professionals, embedding Safe Production Systems principles and driving consistent, high-quality community engagement 

• Build and maintain trusted relationships with Traditional Owners, local communities, and key stakeholders across RTIO’s areas of operation 

• Deliver core CSP strategic initiatives including town strategies, social investment planning, Indigenous support strategies, and human rights assessments 

• Support implementation of global and group-level standards by translating guidance into practical action across the Iron Ore business 

• Drive improved Indigenous employment outcomes through targeted initiatives that support attraction and retention 

• Implement effective systems, reporting frameworks, and processes to monitor CSP performance, risks, and opportunities at asset level 

• Provide expert CSP advice into HSEC strategic programs and contribute to the development of broader stakeholder engagement policy 

• Champion a strong safety culture, ensure compliance with internal and external standards, and foster continuous improvement across the CSP function 

You’ll Bring 

• Strong organisational leadership, with the ability to influence, communicate effectively, and bring curiosity and empathy to complex community matters 

• Tertiary qualifications in social sciences, community development, or a related discipline 

• Demonstrated expertise in Communities and Social Performance, including experience navigating diverse cultural contexts and community challenges 

• Proven ability to build respectful, trust-based relationships with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders 

• Experience managing projects and delivering results through collaboration in a matrixed or networked organisation 

• Deep understanding of community dynamics and the ability to translate local knowledge into meaningful engagement and outcomes 

• A background in mining, resources, construction, utilities, or similar sectors with experience in community-facing or stakeholder roles 

• A collaborative, inclusive approach with a commitment to sustainable development and shared value creation