Senior Communications Advisor

New Zealand Principals Federation; Wellington; On-site; NZD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational advocacy organization in Wellington is seeking a Senior Communications Advisor to develop and execute communication strategies. This role requires advanced writing skills, experience in communications or public relations, and an understanding of New Zealand's education system. Candidates should be proactive and adaptable, committed to integrity and collegiality. The position is full-time, located in Central Wellington.

Qualifications

• Experience in journalism, communications, or public relations is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated success in developing communications strategies.
• Understanding of New Zealand's education system.

Responsibilities

• Manage all communication platforms and media relations.
• Oversee newsletters and special bulletins.
• Draft and edit various communication materials.

Skills

Advanced writing skills

Exceptional writing and editing skills

Relationship management

Content creation for diverse audiences

Education

Relevant degree or equivalent professional experience

Job description

Overview

Are you passionate about education and skilled in communications? The New Zealand Principals’ Federation (NZPF) is seeking a Senior Communications Advisor to join their small, dynamic team in Central Wellington. This full-time, permanent role supports the NZPF President and National Executive.

About us

NZPF is the largest organisation advocating for school principals in New Zealand across primary, intermediate, secondary, area, and independent schools. We maintain strong local and global connections, working with principals’ associations, government agencies, and international organisations.

How we work

• Manaakitanga: leading with moral purpose
• Pono: having self-belief
• Ako: being a learner
• Awhinatanga: guiding and supporting

About you

You will bring:

• A relevant degree or equivalent professional experience in journalism, communications, public relations, or a related field requiring advanced writing skills. Experience within a membership-based organisation and/or the education sector is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing comprehensive communications strategies across both digital and traditional platforms.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and relationship management skills.
• Ability to craft impactful content for diverse audiences.
• An understanding of New Zealand’s education system, including current social, political, and economic issues affecting schools.
• A commitment to Te Ao and Te Reo Māori in communications.

About the role

In this key position, you will be responsible for advancing NZPF's core objectives through the development and execution of extensive communication and engagement strategies. You\'ll work closely with the President and Research/Policy Officer, applying your expertise in internal, external, and digital communications to advance NZPF's strategic goals.

Your key responsibilities

• Managing all communication platforms, including editing the quarterly NZ Principal magazine and handling media relations.
• Overseeing all National Office communications, such as newsletters and special bulletins.
• Drafting and distributing media releases, managing inquiries, and building media relationships.
• Monitoring media coverage, mitigating reputational risks, and advising on media matters.
• Drafting and editing various communication materials, including media releases, presentations, submissions and speeches.
• Collaborating on website and digital platform management, developing engaging social media content.
• Ensuring strategic alignment of all communications with NZPF initiatives.

Job context

• Based in our Wellington National Office with occasional travel and weekend work.
• Reporting directly to the NZPF President and working closely with the Research/Policy Officer and the two National Office staff.

If you are a proactive, adaptable, and resourceful communications professional with a commitment to integrity and positive collegiality, we encourage you to apply now with your CV and cover letter! Applications close on Friday 3rd October.

• Interviews will take place in the week commencing 6 October 2025, with an immediate or negotiated start date.