Shaylee Cowan

Community and stakeholder engagement specialist with over 15 years of experience leading impactful social performance initiatives across the mining, infrastructure, and government sectors. Renowned for fostering authentic partnerships with First Nations communities while adeptly navigating complex issues with empathy and effectiveness. A strategic communicator recognized for protecting corporate reputation and amplifying grassroots voices, skilled in building trust and securing social licenses to operate. Committed to aligning business objectives with genuine community benefits, driven by purpose and empowered by empathy to enable meaningful engagement with communities.

• Certificate in Social Media Accessibility — Vision Australia (2022-11)
• Certificate in Advanced Social Media & Strategy — The Creative Collective (2017-03)
• Certificate in Engagement — Engagement Institute
• Connector Certification — MATES in Construction

• [Your Name] [Your Address] [Email]
• [Phone]
• [Date]
• [Hiring Manager’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address]
• Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name]
• I’m writing to express my interest in the Communities and Social Performance Lead role at [Company Name]. With more than 15 years of experience in communications, stakeholder engagement, and social impact across mining, infrastructure, and government sectors, I bring a grounded understanding of what it takes to build genuine relationships that lead to lasting change.
• Throughout my career, I've led strategic engagement initiatives that protect corporate reputation while delivering real value for communities. I have worked closely with First Nations stakeholders to shape inclusive, respectful partnerships — ensuring outcomes that reflect cultural priorities while aligning with business goals. My work with organisations like Downer, CPB Contractors, and the Infrastructure Association of Queensland has taught me the importance of listening first, then acting with integrity and care.
• I am passionate about helping organisations earn and maintain their social license to operate — not through surface-level consultation, but through honest, two-way engagement and advocacy. Whether managing sensitive communications in high-profile projects or fostering internal cultures of inclusion, I approach my work with empathy, clarity, and strategy.
• I’d welcome the opportunity to contribute my experience, leadership, and collaborative spirit to [Company Name]'s next chapter. I’ve attached my CV for your review and would be delighted to discuss how I can support your commitment to community outcomes and positive impact.
• Thank you for considering my application.
• Warm regards, Shaylee Cowan