General Manager Stakeholder Engagement and Communications at KiwiRail

General Manager Stakeholder Engagement and Communications – KiwiRail, Auckland KiwiRail is investing in the future of rail and ferry services across Aotearoa through an ambitious programme of modernisation and growth. As General Manager Communications & External Relations, you will play a pivotal role in shaping how KiwiRail communicates, engages and builds trust with its people, customers, stakeholders and communities. Leading a team of communications and engagement professionals, you will develop and execute an integrated enterprise‑wide communications and stakeholder engagement strategy that supports KiwiRail’s purpose, strategic priorities and reputation. This role brings together internal communications, media relations, government engagement, community relations and stakeholder management to ensure a consistent and authentic voice across the organisation. As a trusted advisor to the Executive Leadership Team and Board, you will provide expert guidance on strategic communications, external affairs, reputational risk and crisis management while helping position KiwiRail as a trusted and valued State‑Owned Enterprise. Responsibilities Develop and deliver an enterprise‑wide communications and stakeholder engagement strategy aligned to KiwiRail’s long‑term ambitions. Provide strategic advice to senior leaders, the Executive Leadership Team and Board on communications, reputation and stakeholder matters. Lead internal and external communications to support organisational performance, employee engagement and transformation initiatives. Build and maintain strong relationships with media, government agencies, regulators, community leaders and industry stakeholders. Design and embed effective stakeholder engagement approaches across the organisation. Oversee issues management, crisis communications planning and response activities. Ensure consistent messaging and communication standards across all channels and audiences. Lead key stakeholder events, consultations and engagement programmes. Build, mentor and develop a high‑performing Communications & External Relations team. Partner across the business to strengthen trust, reputation and strategic outcomes. Qualifications Significant senior leadership experience within communications, corporate affairs, external relations, public relations or stakeholder engagement environments. Proven ability to influence Executives, Boards and senior stakeholders on complex organisational issues. Experience working within large, complex operational organisations with diverse stakeholder groups. Deep understanding of government, regulatory, media and community landscapes across New Zealand. Exceptional stakeholder engagement and relationship management capability. Demonstrated success managing reputation, issues management and crisis communications. Strong experience building and leading high‑performing teams. Strategic thinking capability with the ability to translate complexity into clear and compelling communications. Excellent judgement, credibility and the ability to influence at all levels. Relevant tertiary qualification in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science or a related discipline (or equivalent postgraduate qualification and experience). Benefits Opportunity to influence the future direction of one of New Zealand’s most iconic organisations. Executive leadership role with significant enterprise‑wide impact. Competitive remuneration package. 4% KiwiSaver employer contribution. Discounted health insurance and staff travel benefits. Access to the NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust. Flexible work arrangements and national exposure. Opportunity to contribute to KiwiRail’s transformation and growth journey. A collaborative and values‑driven culture focused on connecting New Zealand communities. We are looking for an accomplished communications and stakeholder engagement leader who thrives in complex environments and is passionate about building trust, influencing outcomes and shaping organisational reputation. If you’re ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you. Applications close: Sunday 19th of July 2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr