Communications Advisor

Role Overview

Become a key contributor within a dynamic and award-winning Communications team at the University of Waikato. This position gives you the chance to enhance your expertise in internal communication while maintaining a broad generalist approach in an intriguing academic setting. As part of a compact yet impactful internal communications unit, you will craft and convey engaging content to approximately 12,000 students and 2,000 staff across multiple campuses.

Primary Responsibilities

Your duties include supporting internal communications operations with a strategic perspective, distilling complex university information into easily digestible content for stakeholders. You will execute the existing communications plan and have opportunities to lead initiatives aimed at improving communication effectiveness. Furthermore, this role involves occasional contributions to external and corporate communications efforts.

Candidates Profile

Applicants should hold relevant qualifications or equivalent professional experience. Prior experience in communications and a keen interest in fostering well-informed, engaged internal audiences are essential. Attention to detail, strong time management, and the ability to produce timely communications while maintaining brand standards are crucial. Adeptness at identifying risks and interacting with stakeholders across organizational levels with confidentiality is required. Technical skills mainly involve Microsoft 365 and SharePoint, alongside demonstrated writing ability that cannot be substituted by AI tools. Legal eligibility to live and work in New Zealand is mandatory.

About the Team

The Communications team stewards the University's reputation among varied stakeholders including staff and students. Collaborating with marketing and academic departments, the team ensures alignment with strategic objectives. Recognized with a PRINZ Bronze Award for in-house communication excellence, the team values collaboration and maintains a vibrant, supportive culture.

Why Join Us?

The University of Waikato prides itself on delivering innovative, globally recognized education and research. This role offers a professional environment with robust benefits. We are committed to diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds. Our work embraces the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity.

Position Details

• Full-time fixed term role (37.5 hours/week) for 12 months covering parental leave.
• Location: Hamilton campus.
• Start date: September 2026.
• Application deadline: August 2, 2026.