Principal Advisor, Communications

Ministry of Education; Wellington; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 146,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

KiwiSaver

Job summary

The Ministry of Education is seeking a fixed-term Principal Advisor, Communications in Wellington. This role runs through to 30 June 2027 and may consider other locations.

You will shape how Digital and Data communicates, setting strategy, channels and governance that endure beyond the role. You will partner with senior leaders and delivery teams to translate complex technical information into clear content, lead proactive and reactive communications, and align outputs with Ministry standards

Qualifications

• Significant experience in strategic, internal or change communications.
• Ability to translate technical or specialist information into clear content for a range of audiences.
• Experience establishing communications channels, processes and governance, ideally in a digital, technology, data or service delivery environment.
• Ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

Responsibilities

• Develop a communications strategy and plan that shows the value of Digital and Data's work.
• Set up communication channels, intranet content and staff information resources.
• Put in place planning, approval and quality assurance processes that align with Ministry frameworks.
• Build trusted relationships across Digital and Data, Corporate Communications and partners.
• Improve service desk knowledge articles and self-service content so people can find the help they need.

Skills

Strategic communications

Internal communications

Content development

Stakeholder engagement

Political awareness

Job description

Help shape the future of education in New ZealandHelp shape the future of EducationWe work toshapeaneducationsystem that deliversequitableandexcellent outcomesOur organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

This is a fixed-term opportunity through to 30 June 2027. The role is based in Wellington, although other locations will be considered.

Te Pou Kōrero | Digital and Data is establishing a dedicated communications professional. As our Principal Advisor, Communications, you'll lay the foundations for how Digital and Data talks about its work: shaping the strategy, setting up the channels, and putting in place the planning, processes and governance that will carry the function well beyond this role.

You'll be one of two go-to communications partners for our senior leaders, technical specialists and delivery teams. You'll turn complex technical, digital and data information into clear, engaging content that helps people across the Ministry understand and use our services. You'll lead proactive and reactive communications, from intranet articles, leadership messages and staff updates to service desk knowledge content. Working closely with the Ministry's Corporate Communications team, you'll make sure everything we produce aligns with Ministry standards, brand and channels.

In your first months, your focus will include:

• developing a communications strategy and plan that shows the value of Digital and Data's work
• setting up our communication channels, intranet content and staff information resources
• putting in place planning, approval and quality assurance processes that align with Ministry frameworks
• building trusted relationships across Digital and Data, Corporate Communications and partners such as Network for Learning and Education Payroll Limited
• improving service desk knowledge articles and self-service content so people can find the help they need.

Salary range: $120,171 - $145,560 per annum plus KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience. For more details about the role, you can view the job description here.

About you | Mōhou ake

We're looking for a confident, strategic communicator who enjoys building something new. You'll be comfortable starting with a blank page, setting direction and getting things done, while bringing others along with you. To be successful in this role, you'll quickly build credibility with senior leaders and technical experts, and you'll be at your best when making complex ideas simple. You'll bring sound judgement, political awareness and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. You will also offer:

• Significant experience in strategic, internal or change communications, including developing and delivering communications strategies for complex programmes
• A proven ability to translate technical or specialist information into clear, engaging content for a range of audiences
• Experience establishing communications channels, processes and governance, ideally in a digital, technology, data or service delivery environment
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct (https://www.publicservice.govt.nz/guidance/guide-he-aratohu/standards-of-integrity-and-conduct).

This is a rare chance to help shape a function from the start and leave a lasting mark. You'll have the backing of a leadership team that values clear communication, the freedom to bring your own ideas, and the support of the Ministry's Corporate Communications team as you grow the function.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Pou Kōrero | Digital and Data delivers and supports the digital and data platforms, products and services that the Ministry and the education sector rely on every day. Our refreshed structure, effective from 16 November, brings together divisions covering Platforms, Products, Practices, Service Support, Data and Insights, Sector Advisory, Digital Improvement, Business Management and Digital Assurance. As our Principal Advisor, Communications, you'll work across all of these divisions to tell a joined-up story about our work, our priorities and the difference we make for ākonga and the education system.

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

In your cover letter we'd like to know about you, your values, or anything else you'd like to share. We're keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role. For further information, please contact Stacey Richardson, General Manager, Business Management at [e-mail]

Applications close: 5:00 pm,Wednesday 18 November 2026. We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.