Associate Director Communications

Associate Director Communications Te Tūranga | The Opportunity At Massey University, communications is more than telling stories; it is about protecting reputation, inspiring confidence, and connecting our people, communities, and partners with the impact of our teaching, research, and innovation. We are seeking an exceptional Associate Director Communications to lead our communications function during a pivotal period for the University. This executive leadership role is responsible for shaping strategic communications, safeguarding institutional reputation, providing trusted advice to senior leaders, and leading a high‑performing team that delivers across internal communications, media, issues management, and executive communications. This is an opportunity for an experienced communications leader who understands the complexity of higher education and thrives in environments where strategic judgement, political awareness, and calm leadership matter. Ngā Kawenga Matua | What You’ll Lead Lead communications that strengthen and protect the University's reputation. Provide strategic communications counsel to the Vice‑Chancellor and Senior Leadership Team. Shape proactive and responsive communications across institutional priorities, complex issues, and organisational change. Lead crisis and emergency communications planning and response. Inspire and develop a talented communications team while fostering a collaborative One Massey approach across the University. Ō Pūkenga | About You You are an accomplished communications executive with significant experience leading communications within a complex organisation – ideally a university or similarly sophisticated public sector or knowledge‑based environment. Extensive experience developing enterprise‑wide communications strategies that strengthen reputation and stakeholder confidence. A strong understanding of the higher education landscape, including governance, academic culture, and diverse stakeholder groups. Outstanding media relations, executive communications, and issues management capability. Demonstrated success advising executive leaders through periods of change, complexity, and public scrutiny. A collaborative leadership style that develops people, builds trust, and inspires high performance. Political acumen, sound judgement, and the confidence to navigate ambiguity while maintaining credibility. Mō Mātou | Why Massey Massey University is one of New Zealand's leading universities, recognised internationally for research excellence, innovation, and community impact. We are proudly Te Tiriti‑led, embracing partnership, inclusion, and excellence in everything we do. This role offers the opportunity to shape the voice of a nationally significant institution, influence executive decision‑making, and contribute to the future of higher education in Aotearoa New Zealand. Tono Mai | Apply Now If you are a strategic communications leader who combines executive judgement with exceptional relationship‑building skills and a passion for higher education, we’d love to hear from you. Desired Skills and Experience Associate Director Communications, Communications Leadership, Higher Education, University Sector, Strategic Communication, Corporate Affairs, Reputation Strategy, Media Strategy, Executive Leadership, Crisis Management, Stakeholder Relations, Public Affairs, Internal Communications, Change Management, Thought Leadership, Brand Reputation, Communications Strategy, Leadership Development, Governance, Aotearoa New Zealand. #J-18808-Ljbffr