Diplomatic Policy & Public Affairs Advisor

Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade; Wellington; On-site; NZD 32,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade (New Zealand) seeks a Policy and Public Affairs Adviser for the New Zealand High Commission in Kuala Lumpur. You will contribute to Malaysia and Brunei diplomacy across policy, public affairs, communications and official visits.

Responsibilities include political analysis, media materials, public diplomacy campaigns and travel support, with a focus on building influential networks and engaging diverse audiences.

Qualifications

• Strong research, analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with reports/briefings.
• Proven relationship management and stakeholder credibility.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• English proficiency with Malay would be an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Provide analysis and advice on political, social, security and human rights developments in Malaysia and Brunei.
• Monitor emerging issues and assess implications for New Zealand's interests.
• Build and maintain networks across government, business, academia and civil society.
• Lead the High Commission's digital communications, including website and social media campaigns.
• Develop messaging, media materials, speeches and public communications.
• Support media engagement and profile-raising initiatives.
• Deliver public diplomacy events, including anniversary celebrations in 2027.
• Support official visits and travel between New Zealand and Malaysia with briefs and programmes.

Skills

Strong research

Analytical thinking

Excellent communication

Relationship management

Organisational skills

English proficiency

Malay language skills (advantage)

Job description

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade (New Zealand) seeks a Policy and Public Affairs Adviser for the New Zealand High Commission in Kuala Lumpur. You will contribute to Malaysia and Brunei diplomacy across policy, public affairs, communications and official visits.

Responsibilities include political analysis, media materials, public diplomacy campaigns and travel support, with a focus on building influential networks and engaging diverse audiences.