Principal Advisor, Strategic Communications and Engagement at New Zealand Government

About this role 12‑month fixed term, full‑time position based in Wellington. This role is part of the new Ministry Teaching Standards team in Te Pou Ohumahi Matauranga, supporting the development of teacher standards, criteria and the Code of Conduct as legislation is preparing to be passed. As Principal Advisor, you will lead the communication and engagement approach for the new function, shaping strategic communication planning across consultation, implementation and stewardship phases. You will develop high‑quality content and engagement materials across all Ministry channels, ensuring information is accurate, accessible and audience‑centred. You will support sector‑wide engagement, reflecting the voices of teachers, leaders, unions, ITE providers and other stakeholders. You will work closely with the Operational Communications and Engagement team to deliver a joined‑up strategy, build capability in content governance and channel planning, and provide trusted advice that supports effective engagement and protects the Ministry's reputation. You will also maintain a coherent narrative across Teaching Standards materials, refine channels and engagement approaches using research, analytics and implementation activity, and lead cross‑agency and cross‑sector forums to help progress key pieces of work and support broader Teaching Standards planning across Education Workforce functions. Key Responsibilities Lead communication and engagement strategy for the new Teaching Standards function. Plan and implement strategic communication across consultation, implementation and stewardship phases. Develop and refine high‑quality content for Ministry channels – media statements, web, intranet, social media and stakeholder materials. Support sector‑wide engagement with teachers, leaders, unions, ITE providers and other stakeholders. Collaborate with the Operational Communications and Engagement team on content governance and channel planning. Provide trusted advice to protect the Ministry's reputation. Maintain and update the public narrative for Teaching Standards materials. Use research, analytics and implementation insights to improve channels and engagement approaches. Lead and contribute to cross‑agency and cross‑sector forums to align communications with broader Teaching Standards, Education Workforce and national programmes. About you Deep experience in strategic communications and engagement leadership within complex organisations. Intuitive ability to translate expertise into clear, system‑level advice supporting national programmes. Confidence operating in ambiguity, shaping direction and aligning communication and engagement approaches across multiple channels and stakeholders. Strategic thinking – seeing the big picture, anticipating risks, understanding system‑level impacts and aligning approaches to support national direction for Teaching Standards. High‑quality content development – producing clear, accurate and accessible content across media, web, intranet, social media, stakeholder materials and proactive media opportunities. System‑wide engagement capability – leading joined‑up engagement approaches across the Ministry, aligning with the Teaching Council and supporting sector‑wide engagement that builds trust and clarity. Exceptional communication skills – excellent interpersonal and written communication, ability to operate under pressure, manage multiple deadlines and produce clear, accurate and influential content across diverse audiences and channels. Willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct. Salary and Benefits Salary range: $119,171 – $144,560 per annum plus KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary reflecting individual skills and experience. Application Deadline Applications close: Midnight, Sunday, 21st June 2026. Contact For further information, contact Priti Patel, Programme Manager – [email protected]. #J-18808-Ljbffr