Senior Communications Advisor

About the role

The Senior Communications Advisor will join the Labour, Science and Enterprise communications team within MBIE, based in central Wellington. You will provide strategic communications advice and develop content for high‑profile policy announcements and funding decisions across ministerial portfolios such as Tourism, Immigration, Science and Workplace Relations. The role offers a purpose‑driven environment where your work directly impacts the lives of New Zealanders.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and deliver comprehensive communications strategies and products for a range of government initiatives.
• Draft, edit and design press releases, briefing notes, speeches and digital content.
• Manage media relationships and monitor the media landscape to inform proactive engagement.
• Collaborate with senior managers, ministers’ offices, and external agencies to ensure consistent messaging.
• Provide advice on issues and risk management, supporting timely and effective communication responses.

Required profile

• Ability to think quickly, work under pressure and multitask in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong written communication skills and experience creating high‑quality public‑facing material.
• Proactive, positive attitude with sound judgement and discretion.
• Deep understanding of central government decision‑making processes and operating procedures.
• Minimum five years of experience delivering external communications strategies.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary range of $101,911 – $121,196 per year plus KiwiSaver.
• Permanent position within a supportive, collaborative public‑service team.
• Opportunities to work on diverse, high‑impact projects that shape New Zealand’s future.