Senior Media Advisor

About the role

Oranga Tamariki is looking for a Senior Media Advisor to strengthen public confidence in its work supporting children and families across New Zealand. Reporting to the Chief Media Advisor, you will manage media relationships, provide strategic counsel and help the organisation navigate complex, high‑profile issues.

Key responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, editors and media influencers.
• Manage reactive media enquiries and create proactive media opportunities.
• Provide strategic media advice to senior leaders, Ministers’ offices and operational teams.
• Develop engaging content and storytelling across multiple channels.
• Anticipate emerging issues, manage reputational risk and contribute to organisation‑wide communication strategies.
• Coach and mentor colleagues within the communications team.

Required profile

• Significant experience in a senior media, journalism or communications role.
• Strong understanding of government and public‑sector environments.
• Proven ability to work under pressure and handle sensitive, high‑profile matters.
• Exceptional writing, media engagement and content‑creation abilities.
• Excellent stakeholder‑management, influencing and relationship‑building skills.
• Sound judgement, discretion and empathy in complex situations.
• Appreciation of cross‑cultural practices, including knowledge of tikanga Māori and Pacific cultures.

Required skills

What we offer

• Step‑based remuneration package with annual progression.
• Fixed‑term contract covering leave until February 2027.