_{27th March, 2026}

Senior Advisor, Communications
Permanent, Full time
Salary:  Band 17

About the role:
The Senior Advisor, Communications plays an important role in planning and delivering communications, media and digital services across the Ministry.
This is an opportunity for an experienced strategic communications professional to contribute to a small team on a wide array of communications activities. You will be a skilled writer, have experience leading communications programmes, and be comfortable advising on strategy, risk and reputation.
If you are an experienced communicator with an ability to manage complex projects and build strong relationships, this could be the role for you.

The midpoint of this salary band is $117,265. Starting salary will be based on knowledge, skills and experience the successful candidate brings to the role, however appointments are usually made at or below the midpoint of the band.

• Full time, permanent position
• Wellington based

What you’ll bring:
Here at our Ministry, we value a diverse range of talents and backgrounds. The skills and experience listed below are a guide rather than a checklist. If you can demonstrate many of these, we encourage you to apply.

Our ideal candidate will bring most or all, of the following skills and experience:

• Proven experience providing strategic communications advice, including to senior leaders.
• Ability to develop and deliver communications plans, strategies and responses that support organisational priorities.
• Excellent written communication skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, engaging content for a range of audiences.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build effective relationships, influence across the organisation, and support and build capability in others through guidance on communications approaches.
• Sound judgement and experience identifying and managing reputational risks and issues.
• Experience working with media, including managing enquiries and understanding the media landscape.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Good understanding of government communications and the Machinery of Government, and understanding of Pacific communities with the ability to develop culturally appropriate communications that resonate with diverse audiences.

Why join us?
We're more than just a workplace; we're a community that cares about you. When you choose to work with us, you're choosing a career that offers not only health insurance and family friendly policies, but also a supportive environment where you can thrive both personally and professionally. Whilst the work can be challenging, you will be rewarded by contributing to better outcomes for Pacific Peoples.

We offer attractive employment benefits including:

• 3 additional annual leave days between Christmas and New Year
• Professional development
• Located close to main transport hub
• Gyms close by; Bike storage & lockers, excellent facilities.

Our Organisation – Ministry for Pacific Peoples (MPP)
The Ministry for Pacific Peoples is the government’s principal advisor on policies and interventions aimed at improving outcomes for Pacific peoples in New Zealand. Here at the Ministry, we believe in the power of diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. We're excited to embrace the unique perspectives and talents of our current and future team members, as they are the driving force behind our constant quest for innovation. Overall, we aim to achieve our strategic goals and make a positive impact that benefits our Pacific communities. E hiranga ana te wāhi ki a mātou, ki te tautoko i te Karauna i ana hononga ki ngā Iwi Māori i raro i te Tiriti o Waitangi. As Tangata te Tiriti, we have an important role in supporting the Government in its relationships with Māori under the Treaty of Waitangi and te Tiriti o Waitangi.  

Our workplace culture is all about creating an environment where everyone feels involved, respected, and connected to the Pacific communities we serve in New Zealand. We are guided by Pacific values: Ola fetufaaki (Reciprocity), Tāpuakiga (Spirituality), Soalaupule (Consensus), Piri’anga (Collectivism), Fakalilifu (Respect), Magafaoa (Family), and Aro’a (Love). This isn't just good for our fantastic employees; it's a win-win for our Pacific People too. Come join us in building a brighter future together!
 
Interested? - How to apply
Please complete an online application form by clicking ‘Apply’ below or through our careers site at www.mpp.govt.nz.

If you would like more information, please email recruitment@mpp.govt.nz
To see a copy of the job description please copy and paste the link below.

https://www.mpp.govt.nz/assets/People-Culture/New-JD-links/Senior-Advisor-Communications-Final-March-2026.pdf

Closing date: Monday 13 April 2026 (5pm)
We will be assessing applications as they come in, so please apply early!
Please note: Applicants need to have a right to work in New Zealand with a valid visa

Apply For Job