Communications Manager

## About this role

• An exciting opportunity for a resilient individual to thrive in a fast-paced environment
• A critical role in the New Zealand Parole Board (NZPB) leadership team
• Full time position based in the NZPB Offices in Wellington
• Mō te tūnga | About the role
• The Board's Communication Manager provides communications advice and support to the Chairperson, Director of the New Zealand Parole Board, Board members and the administrative support service staff. You will oversee the management of all media queries to the Board and will be responsible for facilitating effective and clear two-way communication with the Board's stakeholders. You will contribute to the Board's overall strategic direction and will lead the implementation of a comprehensive communications strategy and plan.Some of the key responsibilities are :
• Raise and maintain a positive Board profile amongst stakeholders and the public.
• Lead stakeholder engagement between the Board and the Department of Corrections and the Justice Sector agencies in relation to media matters.
• Develop and maintain relationships with the media, including responding to enquiries in a timely fashion.
• Advise victims of media interest in cases they are connected to, and the outcomes of hearings attended by media.
• Manage the design and production of the Board's Annual Report.
• Manage the response to requests received under the Official Information Act and provide advice on potential responses to correspondence.
• Analyse the Parole Board's communications needs and identify key messages, risks and opportunities.
• Log media enquiries and requests to assess demand and anticipate risks.
• Undertake risk analysis and preparation of media management plans.
• Assist in editing of Board decisions for release to victims and media.
• Manage, maintain and develop the Board's web and social media presence.
• Develop and maintain communications support resources for the Chairperson, members and staff for speaking engagements as required.
• Scanning international media and providing relevant research papers, to ensure members and management are informed of international trends.
• Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
• To be successful in this role you will have a demonstratable track record in corporate and / or Government communications, with particular experience in media management. You will be able to work under pressure ensuring you support the New Zealand Parole Board and relevant stakeholders to a high standard.The ideal candidate will have :
• Superior written communication and editing skills.
• Good understanding of how the media (specifically NZ) operates with the ability to deal effectively with media enquiries.
• Is widely trusted and seen as a direct, truthful individual.
• Can present the unvarnished truth in an appropriate and helpful manner.
• Has an astute risk radar; can manage all communications associated with major issues and incidents; proactively identifies and responds to communications issues in a timely manner.
• Understands the implications of the legislation affecting the Board (including the Official Information Act and Privacy Act).
• Strong relationship management, networking and influencing skills; has, or is able to quickly develop a good network of media contacts.
• Proven ability to effectively prioritise workloads; works under pressure and to tight timeframes and makes timely decisions.
• Ability to think analytically and conceptually.
• Strong political acumen; has experience in the Government sector and is familiar with the structure and operations of Government.
• A high level of personal integrity with experience of working with highly confidential and sensitive information.
• Ability to engage sensitively with victims.
• Understands and supports the legislative requirements that affect EEO principles and can apply them proactively.
• Demonstrates awareness and commitment to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and biculturalism.Qualifications :
• A tertiary qualification in journalism, communications or a related discipline is desirable.Other Requirements :
• A current driver's license is required.
• Ngā painga | The benefits
• The midpoint of the salary range is $146,562 per annum and the full range (85%-120%) is $124,578 - $175,875 per annum. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.
• About the New Zealand Parole Board
• The Board, which is statutorily independent and supported by Ara Poutama Aotearoa, makes public safety decisions about the managed release of long-term offenders.The Board is chaired by the Honourable Jan-Marie Doogue and comprises about 45 members. The Board holds thousands of hearings a year, and considers a wide variety of information as part of its decision-making.
• About Ara Poutama Aotearoa
• Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Māori in correctional facilities. As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whānau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our strategy.We value in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve. We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.
• Tono ināianei | Apply Now
• To submit an application and view the position description, click the apply link. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency – applications received via email will not be considered.When applying, submit a tailored
• CV and a cover letter
• describing your motivation for joining the New Zealand Parole Board highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.
• Applications close on Sunday, 30th November 2025 and the successful applicant needs to be able to commence in the role 9th February 2026.
• If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact , or visit
• careers.corrections.govt.nz.
• | Location : | Wellington (Te Whanganui a Tara) || Attachments : | (PDF, 365KB) Position Description |

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