Head of Communication & Engagement

Tauranga City Council; Tauranga; On-site; NZD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Tauranga is seeking an experienced leader to head the Communication & Engagement team. The role involves shaping the Council's strategic narrative, enhancing public trust, and leading innovative engagement initiatives. Candidates should have a relevant degree and extensive experience in public-facing roles. This position offers flexibility, generous leave, and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

5 weeks annual leave

Flexible hours

Work from home options

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven senior-level experience in public-facing environments, including government and community stakeholders.
• IAP2 training or equivalent engagement credentials required.
• Strong digital communication skills with expertise in web, email, social media, and analytics.

Responsibilities

• Shape and deliver Council’s strategic narrative and engagement approach.
• Lead strategic storytelling that reflects the Council's values.
• Advise civic leaders on high-profile issues and opportunities.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Public engagement

Digital communication

Stakeholder management

Education

Relevant degree or equivalent experience

Job description

Overview

Are you ready to lead how Tauranga connects with its people and tells its story? We’re looking for an experienced strategic, innovative leader to head our Communication & Engagement team — someone who brings clarity, builds trust, and drives meaningful public connection.

Te Tūranga | About the role

As the Head of Communication & Engagement you’ll:

• shape and deliver Council’s strategic narrative and engagement approach
• be instrumental in enhancing Council's reputation and building trust and confidence both within the community and among our internal stakeholders
• lead strategic storytelling that reflects our values and connects with our diverse communities
• advise and support civic leaders including the mayor, councillors, and chief executive on high-profile issues and opportunities
• drive innovative engagement that ensures our community’s voice is heard and informs decision-making
• strengthen relationships with tangata whenua, government, media, and other key stakeholders
• elevate our digital presence through smart content, accessible platforms, and data-driven insights

What you’ll need to succeed

Ngā Pukenga | What you’ll need to succeed

To succeed in this role, you’ll bring:

• a relevant degree or equivalent experience in communication, engagement, or public affairs
• proven senior-level experience in complex, public-facing environments, including work with government, media, and community stakeholders
• IAP2 training or equivalent engagement credentials — to lead meaningful, inclusive consultation
• strong digital communication skills, with expertise in web, email, social media, and analytics.

You will be

• calm and confident in crisis and media situations, with excellent judgement and empathy
• skilled at managing diverse stakeholders and navigating political environments
• committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, with experience partnering with tangata whenua
• a collaborative leader with experience coaching teams and managing suppliers
• familiar with public sector standards including WCAG, privacy, and records legislation.

About Tauranga City Council

Tō Tātou Kaunihera | About Tauranga City Council

Tauranga City Council is one of Tauranga’s largest employers, and we are always looking to attract great talent to join our driven, passionate, and community-focused team.

We always strive to ensure that you feel valued and supported in the workplace. To highlight that our people are our greatest asset, we offer a wide range of benefits that include 5 weeks annual leave, flexible hours and work from home options, as well as career development opportunities.

You can find out more about working at Tauranga City Council here.

How to apply

Tō Tātou Kaunihera | How to apply

This is your chance to shape the city’s narrative, so if you want to be part of an energetic, fun, and supportive team, then we'd love to hear from you. For more information, please contact Rob Field at [e-mail]

Please note we will not be accepting applications via email. If you wish to apply, please click ‘Apply’ at the bottom of this page and follow the link.

Applications will close 31st October

We’re committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those living with disabilities. If you need any support or adjustments to take part in our recruitment process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at [e-mail]

• You must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.
• Tauranga City Council does not accept unsolicited contact or applications from recruitment agencies. We will not pay fees or commissions related to unsolicited contact.