Senior Advisor Communications

About the Environmental Protection Authority NZ

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is New Zealand's independent environmental regulator, dedicated to safeguarding the nation's environment, economy, and people. Our work is guided by evidence, mātauranga, and science, aiming to foster innovation and achieve ambitious goals for a healthy environment that benefits all.

About the Communications and Customer Team

This team, part of the Corporate Services Group, spearheads external communications, media management, corporate communications, publications, and government engagement. They also facilitate public information sharing through official correspondence and a customer contact centre.

About the Role

This is a full-time, permanent position based in Wellington. While some flexibility for remote work may be considered, the role is primarily onsite. The Senior Advisor Communications will leverage strategic planning and delivery expertise to manage both internal and external communications. Key responsibilities include leading internal communications, partnering with senior leaders to support organizational programs, managing complex issues, and mentoring team members. The role also involves collaborating with subject matter experts to disseminate information across various external channels, simplifying technical content for diverse audiences, and supporting digital communication platforms. The successful candidate will provide high-level communication advice and support to the EPA Board Chair, Chief Executive, and Executive Leadership Team, and contribute to stakeholder engagement initiatives. Performance monitoring and continuous improvement of communication strategies are also integral to this position.

Responsibilities

• Spearhead effective and engaging internal communication strategies.
• Collaborate with business units to advise on potential reputational risks and identify communication opportunities.
• Develop and execute communication plans for both internal and external EPA projects and initiatives.
• Proactively share compelling stories to increase awareness of EPA priorities and significant projects.
• Manage media relations, including responding to inquiries and proactively seeking media coverage through press releases.
• Contribute to the creation and distribution of various EPA publications, from e-newsletters to formal corporate documents.
• Translate complex and technical subject matter into accessible, engaging content suitable for diverse audiences and various communication channels.
• Support the management of EPA's digital communication channels, including the website, intranet, and social media.
• Offer communication guidance and support to the EPA Board Chair, Chief Executive, and Executive Leadership Team.
• Advise on and assist with initiatives aimed at improving stakeholder engagement.
• Monitor, assess, and report on the effectiveness of communication efforts, implementing ongoing enhancements.

Requirements

• A minimum of five years of experience in a senior communications role.
• Proven experience leading internal communications to support organizational objectives.
• Demonstrated ability to creatively communicate technical and environmental topics.
• Proficiency in communications planning and execution across multiple channels and tools.
• Experience in media management and handling media inquiries.
• A strong sense of reputational risk awareness.
• Excellent initiative and problem-solving capabilities.
• Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• High level of attention to detail.
• Ability to manage a varied and demanding workload effectively.

Perks

• Flexible working arrangements.
• Generous sick leave provisions.
• Three additional paid leave days between Christmas and New Year, on top of four weeks' annual leave.
• A non-taxable payment of $400 to assist with home office setup for flexible working.
• Paid annual EPA Environment Day for community environmental initiatives.
• Access to an in-house Māori cultural capability building program.
• Opportunities for professional development, including the annual EPA Symposium.
• Active social club and various support networks.
• Organization-wide awards recognizing individual and team achievements.

Eligibility

Candidates with at least five years of communications experience, particularly in leading internal communications at a senior level, are encouraged to apply. The ideal applicant will possess strong creative writing skills for technical subjects, comprehensive communication planning and execution abilities, media management experience, and a keen awareness of reputational risks. Excellent problem-solving, interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the capacity to manage diverse workloads are also essential.

Education Required

Not specified