Communications & Engagement Advisor (Fixed Term)

About the Role

Napier City Council is seeking an experienced Communications & Engagement Advisor on a fixed-term contract through to July 2027. This role involves collaborating across multiple Council projects to deliver clear and effective communication, meaningful community engagement, and advisory support that enables residents to understand and participate in shaping Napier's future.

The role includes crafting communication strategies, producing compelling content for digital and traditional media, supporting community consultations and events, nurturing stakeholder and mana whenua relationships, advising on engagement best practices, handling media responses, and utilizing community feedback to improve communication processes.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement communications and engagement strategies for Council initiatives.
• Create content for digital platforms, printed materials, social media, and internal communications.
• Assist with community consultations, workshops, events, and engagement efforts.
• Establish and maintain relationships with community organizations, mana whenua, stakeholders, and internal teams.
• Advise across the organisation on communications and engagement excellence.
• Support media inquiries and contribute to managing emerging issues.
• Leverage feedback and insights to enhance Council’s communications.

Candidate Profile

• A minimum of five years' experience in communications, engagement, or advisory roles is required.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, focusing on clarity and audience engagement.
• Capability to manage multiple projects and priority tasks effectively.
• Proficient in producing content for various digital and traditional communication channels.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• A tertiary qualification in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Media, or related disciplines is essential.
• Experience in local government or public administration and familiarity with Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Māori engagement are advantageous.

What We Provide

• Access to an Employee Assistance Program.
• Recognition through quarterly values awards, birthday vouchers, and a social club.
• Annual free influenza vaccinations.
• Engagement with cultural initiatives including Ka Awatea Wānanga, NCC Kapa Haka, and Te Reo Māori language classes.

Additional Details

This full-time position entails 40 hours weekly, Monday to Friday, based in Napier. The annual total remuneration ranges from $93,514 to $104,516 NZD including KiwiSaver, with the final salary determined by experience and skills. The Council values diversity and inclusion and offers support for applicants needing accommodations during hiring. Pre-employment screening including criminal record checks and potential health and substance assessments are required. Employees may also be called upon to assist in Civil Defence emergencies.