Strategic Defence Tech Communications & Engagement Lead

New Zealand Government; Auckland; On-site; NZD 85,000 - 103,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life cover

Critical illness protection

Discounted insurances

Free will services

Mortgage guidance

Job summary

The Defence Technology Accelerator (Def TA) is a NZDF function that connects Defence with industry, academia and government partners to advance innovative technologies. Our Communications and Engagement Lead will shape how innovation is communicated across NZDF and beyond, translating complex activities into clear stories for stakeholders.

You will develop strategic communications, support events and site visits, and build strong relationships with industry and academia to showcase the value of

Qualifications

• Proven experience developing and delivering communication and engagement strategies across channels and audiences.
• Experience in communications, engagement, public relations, journalism, or related field, ideally within government, defence, science, or complex environments.
• Strong writing skills, ability to tailor messaging for diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to build effective relationships and influence across boundaries.
• Sound judgement, discretion, and professionalism with sensitive information and senior stakeholders.
• Excellent organisation and coordination skills, with event and stakeholder support.
• Ability to translate technical subjects for non-technical audiences.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in comms, PR, journalism, or related discipline, or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver strategic communications and engagement initiatives for Def TA.
• Translate complex technical and operational activities into clear, compelling stories for stakeholders.
• Support stakeholder engagement, events, and site visits to showcase Def TA’s value.
• Build strong relationships across NZDF, industry, academia, and government partners.

Skills

Strategic communications

Stakeholder engagement

Technical write-ups

Relationship building

Judgement & discretion

Event coordination

Analytical communication

Qualifications in comms/journalism

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications or related field

Job description

The Defence Technology Accelerator (Def TA) is a NZDF function that connects Defence with industry, academia and government partners to advance innovative technologies. Our Communications and Engagement Lead will shape how innovation is communicated across NZDF and beyond, translating complex activities into clear stories for stakeholders.

You will develop strategic communications, support events and site visits, and build strong relationships with industry and academia to showcase the value of