Principal Communications Adviser, Projects (Property and Digital)

• Do you thrive in complex, fast-moving environments and can juggle multiple projects?
• Have you got experience in organisational change and familiarity with recognised frameworks?
• Are you an experienced and strategic professional who is passionate about project communications?

Korero mo te turanga - About the role

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting a Senior Communications Adviser, Projects (Property and Digital) to join our Strategic Communications team in a fixed-term, full-time role through to December 2027.

This is a strategic, high-impact role embedded within the University's major capital works and digital transformation programmes. You will partner closely with Property Services and Te Tai Matihiko - Digital Solutions to ensure communications and engagement are designed to support delivery, enable change, and protect institutional reputation.

Operating across a complex portfolio of projects, you will play a critical role in ensuring communications are integrated, timely, and audience-focused, supporting both project success and organisational coherence.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and deliver communications strategies for large-scale projects in both property and digital spaces.
• Lead stakeholder engagement across staff, students, and external partners.
• Produce high-quality communications and support senior leaders.
• Embed communications within project governance and delivery.
• Manage issues, risks, and reputational considerations.
• Support external, community, and iwi engagement where relevant.
  

O pumanawa - About you

You will be an experienced and strategic communications professional who thrives in complex, fast-moving environments, and can juggle multiple high-risk, high impact projects with varying deadlines and stakeholders. We are looking for someone who is passionate about project communications and has demonstrated ability to operate as both a strategic adviser and a hands-on delivery practitioner.

Experience in organisational change and familiarity with recognised frameworks such as IAP2 and Prosci would be an advantage.

Role Description: Click here to see further information, including salary details.

If this link is not available, click 'apply' to view this on the University careers page.

Close date for vacancy: 19 August 2026.

Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role please get in touch with Fiona Clarkson, Head of Strategic Communications ([email protected]).

How to apply: Please ensure you are applying for this role directly on our careers page and not via email. Candidates must submit supporting documents along with their resume, such as a cover letter.

Applicants who do not have residency or citizenship and require a visa to work at the University must clearly indicate their visa status in their application and understand that if they do not have a current, relevant visa, they will need to secure this independently.

Mo Te Herenga Waka - About Our University

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our university campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of Aotearoa New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we have made here.

Explore the many benefits of working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. Find out where you fit in our strategic direction and learn more about our research expertise.