Programme Communications Lead

Significant national programme with high visibility and impact. Autonomy and ownership with the ability to make a genuine difference. Available as a Fixed term or secondment till 30th June 2027 Are you a senior communications and engagement professional who thrives in complexity, influences at the highest levels, and isn't afraid to have courageous conversations? Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do. In our work, we aim to demonstrate these values: We put Tamariki first We believe Aroha is vital We respect the Mana of people We are Tika and Pono We value Whakapapa We recognise that Oranga is a journey We are committed to ensuring that New Zealand is the best place in the world to be a child. We are also committed to ensuring Oranga Tamariki partners with hapū, iwi and Māori organisations to find appropriate solutions for tamariki in need. Mō te tūnga|About the role We’re looking for an experienced Programme Communications Lead to drive the communications and stakeholder engagement work‑stream for the Commissioning and Investment programme. This is a unique opportunity to shape engagement across Aotearoa, working alongside senior leaders, regional partners, iwi, and government stakeholders to support meaningful outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi and whānau. This is not a role for someone who waits to be told what to do. You’ll be the communications and engagement expert in the programme, operating with a high degree of autonomy, identifying risks before they emerge, building trusted relationships, and ensuring stakeholders remain informed, engaged and connected throughout the journey. Responsibilities Leading the programme communications and stakeholder engagement strategy from end to end. Developing and delivering communications plans across a complex and evolving environment. Building and maintaining strong relationships with senior leaders, government agencies, iwi, community partners and other key stakeholders. Planning and facilitating regional engagement activities and hui across New Zealand. Translating complex information into clear, accessible and compelling communications. Providing strategic advice to programme leaders and influencing decision‑making at a senior level. Identifying communication and reputational risks and proactively managing them. You are an experienced communications professional who is comfortable operating as a sole lead within a programme environment. Qualifications 8+ years’ senior communications and stakeholder engagement experience. Demonstrated success leading communications for large‑scale programmes or organisational change initiatives. Strong experience engaging with iwi and Māori stakeholders, with a genuine understanding of tikanga Māori and Te Tiriti relationships. The confidence and credibility to influence senior executives and navigate competing stakeholder interests. Exceptional relationship‑building skills and the ability to quickly establish trust. Resilience, pragmatism and a thick skin. You remain calm, professional and solutions‑focused when challenged. A proactive, self‑starting approach with a strong bias for action. Outstanding writing, planning and strategic communication skills. Travel across New Zealand will be required as part of the role. If you’re an experienced communications leader who can confidently engage with senior stakeholders, build trusted iwi relationships, and drive engagement outcomes in a complex environment, we’d love to hear from you. Nōu te rourou|What's in it for you Oranga Tamariki offer a step‑based remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. Annual remuneration for this position starts between $125,926 and $139,459 dependant on experience. We offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi. #J-18808-Ljbffr