Chief Communications & Engagement Officer

Chief Communications & Engagement OfficerEarth Sciences NZ was established on 1 July 2025 through the merger of GNS and NIWA, with the upcoming acquisition of MetService further strengthening its capabilities.

Bringing together multidisciplinary expertise and advanced technology, it will excel in earth, environmental, and natural resources science across six core missions : Geological Hazards, Weather and Climate, Energy, Land and Freshwater, Atmosphere and Climate, and Oceans.This new entity forms part of the most significant reform to New Zealand's science and innovation system in more than three decades, designed to create a more dynamic, collaborative, and impactful science system.

Following the acquisition of MetService, Earth Sciences NZ will comprise around 1,500 staff across 22 sites, with assets of approximately $400 million and annual revenues of $370 million, including substantial commercial streams.

For more information, visit earthsciences.nz.The Role : This is a rare and meaningful leadership opportunity to support positioning New Zealand as a leader in earth science research and innovation.

As Chief Communications and Engagement Officer (CCEO), you will provide strategic leadership for all aspects of Earth Sciences NZ's communications, engagement, and reporting functions.

Working closely with the wider executive team and Board, you will shape and deliver enterprise-wide strategies that strengthen Earth Sciences NZ's national and global presence, enhancing its reputation and impact.Define and drive Earth Sciences NZ's communications and engagement strategy, fostering collaboration and alignment across all functions, and offering innovative insights to inform and enhance delivery.Translate science outcomes and organisational achievements into compelling, audience-specific narratives that build understanding, trust, and support among industry, government, stakeholders, and the public.Lead the integration and transformation of communications, engagement, and reporting functions post-merger, ensuring alignment and driving brand recognition.Build trust with iwi, government, media, and the public, both nationally and internationally.Develop and lead Earth Sciences NZ's brand strategy and narrative, ensuring consistent and compelling storytelling across all internal and external channels.Oversee the organisation's digital presence, including website, social media, and digital engagement platforms, leveraging analytics to drive continuous improvement.Lead crisis and hazard communications, ensuring readiness for emergency management and effective public engagement.Background, Skills and Experience : The ideal candidate is a proven marketing, communications, and engagement senior leader, with the ability to build influence and trust at national and international levels.

You will bring credibility in government relations, media, and ideally crisis communications, and a strong track record in translating complex science into compelling narratives for broad audiences.Extensive experience designing and developing integrated marketing and communication strategies at an executive level.Proven expertise in executing integrated communication strategies across internal, external, and digital channels to strengthen brand presence, drive engagement, and influence key stakeholders.Skilled in managing crisis communication.Experienced leader with a track record of building high-performing teams and fostering collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.Exceptional relationship-building skills across iwi, industry, academia, and international partners.This is a significant leadership role that amplifies the impact of science through targeted marketing, communications, and engagement, supporting New Zealand's position as a global leader in earth science research.Applications close at 5.00pm NZT on Friday 3rd October 2025Application detailsUnlock job insightsSalary match Number of applicants Skills matchYour application will include the following questions : Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in New Zealand?

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