Communications Lead - Industry

JobSpace; Mount Maunganui; Hybrid; NZD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work ethos

WFH & office

Additional paid annual leave day

Free onsite parking

Free kiwifruit

Job summary

Zespri in Mount Maunganui is seeking a Communications Lead - Industry to shape and deliver the industry communications programme for growers and stakeholders. This global role reports to the Global Communications Manager and drives clear, timely messaging that aligns with Zespri's strategy.

You will lead planning, content across channels, advise on projects, build internal and external relationships, and develop the Industry Communications team, using insights and AI tools to boost engagement.

Qualifications

• Proven experience developing and delivering strategic communication plans and programmes.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to translate complex information.
• Experience partnering with senior leaders to provide trusted communications advice.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and influence across diverse stakeholders.
• Experience leading projects and managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative leadership style with coaching or mentoring experience.
• Strong digital communications capability using modern platforms and channels.
• Comfort using emerging technologies including AI tools to enhance outcomes.
• Experience in NZ's primary sector (horticulture/agriculture) would be an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Leading the planning and delivery of Zespri's industry communications strategy and annual programme.
• Developing engaging content across channels, including publications, presentations, grower updates, and digital communications.
• Providing strategic communications advice to projects and initiatives impacting growers and stakeholders.
• Building strong relationships with internal teams and industry stakeholders for relevance and audience focus.
• Managing and continuously improving key industry communication channels and platforms.
• Leading and developing the Industry Communications team to deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Using insights, analytics, and emerging technologies, including AI tools, to enhance effectiveness and engagement.

Skills

Strategic communications

Content strategy

Stakeholder engagement

Leadership & coaching

Digital communications

AI tools usage

Education

Tertiary qualification in communications

Tools

Microsoft Copilot

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

This is a 12 month fixed-term contract. The Communications Lead - Industry is a global role reporting to the Global Communications Manager. This position plays a critical role in shaping and delivering Zespri's industry communications programme, ensuring growers and industry stakeholders receive clear, timely, and engaging communications that support trust, understanding, and alignment with Zespri's strategy.

You'll be responsible for:

• Leading the planning and delivery of Zespri's industry communications strategy and annual communications programme.
• Developing engaging content across a range of channels, including publications, presentations, grower updates, and digital communications.
• Providing strategic communications advice and support to projects and initiatives that impact growers and industry stakeholders.
• Building strong relationships with internal teams and industry stakeholders to ensure communications are relevant, effective, and audience-focused.
• Managing and continuously improving key industry communication channels and platforms.
• Leading and developing the Industry Communications team to deliver high-quality communication outcomes.
• Using insights, analytics, and emerging technologies, including AI tools, to enhance communication effectiveness and stakeholder engagement.

With a relevant tertiary qualification and significant experience in communications, stakeholder engagement, or corporate affairs, you will bring the skills and experience needed to succeed in this role. You will also meet the following selection criteria:

• Proven experience developing and delivering strategic communication plans and programmes.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, engaging content.
• Experience partnering with senior leaders and stakeholders to provide trusted communications advice.
• Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships and influence across a diverse stakeholder group.
• Experience leading projects and managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• A collaborative leadership style with experience coaching, mentoring, or leading others.
• Strong digital communications capability, including experience with modern communication platforms and channels.
• A continuous improvement mindset and confidence using emerging technologies, including AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot, to enhance communication outcomes.
• Experience in New Zealand's primary sector, horticulture, agriculture, or a comparable industry would be an advantage.

He aha e tika ai a Zespri? Why Zespri? Our people are what makes our culture so irresistible and uniquely Zespri. We are a passionate and mighty team of 850+ employees in 23 different locations globally. Working at Zespri is an opportunity to join a fast-paced, culture-driven environment unlike any other. We want people who share our values of making it happen, creating real connections, and leaving a legacy. Join us in shaping our future and be part of a truly unique organisation.

Competitive overall remuneration package. FlexWELL flexible work ethos; WFH & the office. Additional paid annual leave day per year (Zespri Day). Convenient Mount Maunganui office location, with free onsite parking. Your daily dose of Vitamin C with free kiwifruit!