Communications Manager

About the role

Chorus is looking for a Communications Manager to lead its Corporate Affairs & Sustainability communications function. Reporting to the Head of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability, you will shape how New Zealand perceives Chorus, its fibre network and its contribution to the nation’s future.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a small team of communications professionals to protect and strengthen Chorus’s social licence.
• Develop and deliver strategic communications plans that build trust and reinforce the company’s purpose.
• Manage media relations, including handling sensitive or high‑profile issues.
• Provide communications counsel to executives and senior leaders.
• Embed purpose‑driven messaging into external communications and support key business initiatives.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders, escalating issues when necessary.

Required profile

• Collaborative, pragmatic leader with a track record of leading communications, external affairs or media‑relations teams.
• Proven success in creating and executing strategic communications that enhance reputation.
• Strong media‑relations experience, especially with complex or high‑visibility matters.
• Experience advising senior executives on communications strategy.
• People‑leadership skills focused on coaching and developing high‑performing teams.
• Excellent stakeholder‑management judgment.

Required skills

• Media relations
• Strategic communications planning
• Executive communications counsel
• Stakeholder management
• Team leadership