Senior Communications Advisor

Mo te Tari o te Kaitiaki Mana Tangata – About the Ombudsman

The Chief Ombudsman works with his staff to help New Zealanders in their dealings with government agencies.

The focus is on handling complaints against government agencies, undertaking investigations and inspections, and encouraging good administration.

The Chief Ombudsman is independent and impartial, with the goal of fairness for all.

Mo to matou tira – About the team

The Communications and Media team is responsible for providing high quality and informative internal and external content and communications advice to senior leaders and our wider organisation.

Mo te turanga - About the role

The Senior Communications Advisor is part of the Communications and Media team.

The role is varied, involving the development of external and internal communications and speeches for the Chief Ombudsman, senior managers and the wider organisation, as well as contributing to the development and implementation of strategic plans and leading communication projects.

The role works closely with the Publications and Digital Team and the wider organisation to ensure strong alignment between strategy, publications, and communications across a variety of internal and external platforms.

We are looking for a communications all-rounder who works well with senior and executive level stakeholders.

You will have a good understanding of both risks and opportunities and an excellent eye for detail.

You can expect to be involved with developing strategies and planning, handling media enquiries, as well as supporting the team in other aspects of their work.

You must, of course, have excellent writing skills.

This is a fixed term position for 6 months.

He korero mou – About you

To be successful in this role you will have :

• A broad range of communications skills and experience as a communications expert at a senior level
• Able to deliver to local and international audiences, using a variety of channels and platforms.
• Experience in strategic planning and programme development
• Sound experience in building and maintaining relationships with various stakeholders, particularly at senior and executive level
• Experience and / or strong understanding of the public sector is an advantage.

Te painga o te mahi tahi me matou - Our benefits, what we offer

Becoming part of an exceptional team in a dynamic organisation, where the work is challenging and rewarding.

Your development and growth will be nurtured, and your work recognised and valued.

Me pehea te tono - How to apply

To apply, click on the 'Apply Now' button where you will need to register through our online career centre, complete our application form and upload your CV and cover letter.

For further information about this vacancy please email

All applicants will have a legal entitlement to work in New Zealand.

Appointees will be subject to a criminal convictions check and may be required to achieve and maintain a NZ Government (NZSIS) security clearance.

As the Ombudsman's role is to provide "fairness for all" New Zealanders, it is important that our staff represent New Zealanders from all walks of life.

We value your individuality and how you can contribute to our team.

We encourage applicants from all walks of life.

Depending on skills and experience the annual salary is expected to be between $108,181 to $141,987, with $135,226 being the mid-point.

This role is based in Wellington.

Please note we are unable to consider 100% remote working for this role.

Applications close 5pm, 5 October 2025.