Jennifer Durante

Communications, Brand & Engagement Specialist

Greater Sydney Area

About

I am a communications, partnerships and fundraising executive with 30 years experience spanning medical research institutes, NFPs, government, politics and the private sector. My passion is strategically connecting with corporates, media, donors and supporters to build engagement and action change. My experience includes risk and critical issues management, having managed media and public affairs for issues-rich sectors including the construction industry, the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, health and research related bodies, and government. Building and managing public reputations and protecting against reputational harm is a key part of my expertise. I am a firm believer in the power of teamwork, as impactful change can only be achieved by working collaboratively and building on individual strengths.

Experience

  • Head of Communications at SpinalCure Australia
    Feb 2026 - Present · 6 mos

  • Melanoma Institute Australia (9 yrs 6 mos)
    • Director, Community & Engagement
      Aug 2023 - Feb 2026 · 2 yrs 7 mos

    • Head of Communications & Fundraising
      Sep 2018 - Sep 2023 · 5 yrs 1 mo

    • Head of Communications
      Sep 2016 - Sep 2023 · 7 yrs 1 mo

  • Media and Government at Sydney Motorway Corporation
    Feb 2015 - Aug 2016 · 1 yr 7 mos

    Media management and government relations relating to the southern hemisphere's biggest infrastructure project, the $16.8 billion WestConnex motorway.

  • Media Manager at Cerebral Palsy Alliance
    Mar 2009 - Feb 2015 · 6 yrs

    Provision of media advice, campaigns and management relating to all aspects of Cerebral Palsy Alliance and its internationally acclaimed Research Institute. Included coordinating and implementing national media campaigns for STEPtember; providing media advice and training for the Executive Team, translating research and medical content into consumer media outreach, and liaising with clients and their families.

  • Director at JMH Communications Pty Ltd
    2000 - 2010 · 10 yrs

    I ran my own communications consultancy for a decade, and contracted to provided communications, media management, and stakeholder communications and advice to a range of organisations including: * Olympic Coordination Authority and Sydney 2000 * Tourism NSW * Office of Industrial Relations * Private companies including in the health and construction industries