Lead Communications Advisor | Wellington

Permanent senior communications role in the operational group of the Ministry of Social Development (MSD). As Lead Communications Advisor you will provide strategic communications advice to operational and project leaders and develop and lead significant communications strategies, work programmes and campaigns that support the delivery of MSD services across New Zealand.

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• Provide strategic and risk‑based communications advice to senior leaders, especially within a government context.
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• Lead the design and implementation of client, staff, stakeholder and employer‑focused communications strategies, programmes and campaigns.
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• Develop and deliver clear, timely, and practical communications across social media, traditional media, internal channels and storytelling opportunities.
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• Support operational change initiatives by translating complex information into engaging and actionable messages.
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• Build and maintain trusted relationships with leaders, frontline teams, and external partners, including ministerial offices and industry stakeholders.
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• Manage projects and communications activities in a complex, fast‑moving environment, ensuring effective planning, delivery, and performance outcomes.
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• Participate in processes and systems that incorporate Mātauranga Māori and provide culturally appropriate communication strategies.
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• Proven senior‑level communications experience or an equivalent qualification.
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• Experience providing strategic and risk‑based communications advice within a governmental or public sector setting.
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• Strong strategic thinking and the ability to quickly understand complex issues and translate them into clear communication and campaign strategies.
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• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills across a range of channels and audiences.
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• Experience developing and delivering storytelling opportunities through social, traditional and internal channels.
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• Strong relationship‑management skills and confidence working with external partners, providers, ministers’ offices and senior stakeholders.
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• Proven project‑management skills and the ability to lead communications work in a complex and fast‑moving environment.
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• Political and environmental awareness, sound judgement, attention to detail, and the ability to provide clear recommendations when escalating issues or risks.
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• Confidence participating in situations involving processes, systems and organisations based on Mātauranga Māori.
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• Opportunity to influence the communication of nationally significant work that positively impacts New Zealanders.
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• Collaborate with senior leaders to drive understanding, confidence and action through effective communication.
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• Support client engagement, employer‑focused marketing, and employment‑focused outreach programmes.
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• Work within a purpose‑driven organisation that values inclusion, collaboration, integrity and the well‑being of its people.
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National Office, Wellington – on site with the rest of the team.

NZD122,381.00–152,296.00 per annum.