Chief Engagement and Communications Officer | Wellington
| Category: | Management |
| Position Type: | Fixed Term Full Time |
| Attachments: | Chief Engagement and Communications Officer.pdf (PDF, 267KB) |
| Application Close Date: | 11-Jan-2026 |
Job Description
Fixed-term / Secondment – to June 2027
Lead the engagement and communications strategy for one of Aotearoa's most significant reforms. Transforming New Zealand's planning and environmental management system is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to drive better outcomes for New Zealanders.
Mō te tūranga mahi | About the Role
We're looking for a strategic and influential Āpiha Kōrerorero Tahi, Whakawhitiwhiti Kōrero Matua / Chief Engagement and Communications Officer to set and deliver the engagement and communications vision for the Planning and Environmental System Transformation Programme. This is a rare opportunity to lead the narrative for a flagship, cross-government transformation that will shape the future of planning and environmental management in New Zealand.
You'll ensure a single source of truth for the programme's vision and messaging, building trust and understanding across central and local government, iwi/Māori, sector partners, the public, and media. Your leadership will drive clear, compelling communications that support system-wide change and enduring public confidence.
In this role, you will
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Develop and champion the engagement and communications strategy for the transformation programme.
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Oversee programme narrative and messaging across all channels and audiences.
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Lead the design and delivery of public information and behavioural change campaigns.
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Build trusted relationships with iwi/Māori, local government, sector partners, media, and the public.
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Ensure engagement approaches reflect te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and diverse perspectives.
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Provide assurance to senior leaders and Ministers on engagement progress, risks, and opportunities.
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience
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Senior experience in communications and engagement, ideally in public sector or transformation contexts.
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Proven ability to lead complex, multi-stakeholder communications strategies.
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Strong stakeholder engagement, media, and digital communications skills.
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Expertise in change communications and translating complex policy into clear public messaging.
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Practical knowledge of te Tiriti o Waitangi and experience working with Treaty partners.
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Exceptional political acumen and ability to influence at the highest levels.
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Relevant tertiary qualification in communications, public relations, or equivalent.
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Ability to gain and maintain security clearance as required.
For more information about the transformation of the planning and environmental management system – check out this article on our website: https://environment.govt.nz/news/government-unveils-major-overhaul-of-new-zealands-planning-system/
Ngā hua ka puta i te mahi ki MfE | Benefits of working at MfE
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agile ways of working, allowing you variety and challenges across the organisation as we work as ‘One MfE'
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active employee networks including Māori Rōpū, Asian Network, Neurodivergent and Disability Networks, Women's Network, Tagata Moana (Pacific Peoples' Network), and Rainbow Network
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opportunities for development and education.
Check out other benefits of joining us and hear what our people say about Working at MfE | Ministry for the Environment.
Tono ināianei | Apply now
Apply directly by completing the online application form and submit your CV and cover letter. Note: your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key skills required for this role.
If you require further information about this position, please contact Sally Morison via email vacancy@mfe.govt.nz
We are committed to providing equal opportunities and actively strive to be a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. We are proud to be a Rainbow Tick and Gender Tick certified organisation and are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
We want to ensure any accessibility needs you may have are well supported, so the recruitment process is fair and equitable for all. Therefore, please let us know if there are any adjustments or support, we can offer to make the recruitment process more accessible to you. Please contact us at vacancy@mfe.govt.nz if you would like to discuss any accessibility needs you may have.
You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.
We will be reviewing applications as they come in and may contact candidates prior to the role closing.
Rā Katinga | Applications close: Sunday 11 January 2026 @ 5pm
