Senior Strategic Communications Partner

Taituarā; Rotorua; Hybrid; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Rotorua Lakes Council is seeking an experienced Communications Partner to deliver clear, timely communications that build trust and keep the community informed and engaged. Based at the Civic Centre in Rotorua, you’ll work in a business partnership model, advising senior leaders and project teams across the organisation.

You'll manage media relations, stakeholder engagement with iwi and mana whenua, and oversee communications during crises, with the Digital and Content teams to create

Qualifications

• Significant communications experience in a large, complex or politically sensitive environment.
• Strong relationship-building and influencing skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and remain calm under pressure.
• Experience in emergency management communications would be an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Developing and delivering strategic communications and engagement plans that support Council priorities and community outcomes
• Working with media, including developing media releases managing enquiries, and supporting Council spokespeople
• Championing effective engagement with iwi, and mana whenua and ensuring communications and engagement activities reflect Council's partnership commitments
• Identifying, managing and responding to reputational risks and emerging issues
• Providing communications support during crisis situations and emergency events
• Collaborating with our in-house Digital and Content team to create engaging, audience-focused content and campaigns across a range of channels
• Telling the stories behind Council's people, projects and services in ways that resonate with and connect with Rotorua communities

Skills

Significant communications experience

Relationship-building

Exceptional written and verbal comms

Prioritisation under pressure

Emergency comms experience

Job description

Rotorua Lakes Council is seeking an experienced Communications Partner to deliver clear, timely communications that build trust and keep the community informed and engaged. Based at the Civic Centre in Rotorua, you’ll work in a business partnership model, advising senior leaders and project teams across the organisation.

You'll manage media relations, stakeholder engagement with iwi and mana whenua, and oversee communications during crises, with the Digital and Content teams to create