Principal Advisor, Communications - Wellington
Help shape the future of Education
We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes
Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.
About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga
12-month fixed term
The operational communications and engagement team supports ministerial offices and Ministry business units on priority work programmes and projects that require specialist communications and engagement support. The principal advisor communications is a critical role that delivers communications material requiring sound judgment, effective networking, a high degree of political awareness, and outstanding English language skills.
Salary range: $118,371 - $143,760 per annum + 3% KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.
For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here.
About you | Mōhou ake
We're looking for a confident communicator with strong political awareness and a deep understanding of how government works. You will have excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to craft clear, compelling content for a range of audiences and channels. You will have a proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships across diverse stakeholder groups, navigating complexity with diplomacy and tact. You will bring sound judgement, a calm approach under pressure, and the ability to provide strategic advice in a fast-paced environment. We're looking for someone who thrives on collaboration, understands the nuances of public sector communication, and can contribute to high-quality communications outcomes.
You will also offer:
The ability to deliver high-quality written content with minimal revisions.
Proven ability to maintain strong stakeholder satisfaction.
Experience demonstrating responsiveness to political and operational priorities.
Experience contributing to successful communications strategies that support team and organisational goals.
The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
You'll be joining a team that genuinely enjoys working together, is committed to delivering high performance mahi, and supports one another to achieve shared goals. We work with a strong sense of purpose in our mahi and value the flexibility we’ve earned—built on mutual trust, a positive attitude, and the understanding that flexibility goes both ways.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
The Communications, Engagement and Ministerials division is responsible for external and organisational communications capability. The division is also responsible for strengthening external stakeholder relationships through the delivery of statutory functions including ministerial services and records management.
The Operational Communications and Engagement team is responsible for the Ministry’s external communications and engagement capability, working alongside business groups to support their work programme priorities. The team works closely with ministers’ offices to strengthen the Ministry’s ministerial relationships through the delivery of commissioned materials in line with ministers’ expectations.
Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?
If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.
For further information, please contact Tania Black, Manager Operational Communications and Engagement team at tania.black@education.govt.nz
Applications close Midnight – Monday 6 October 2025
We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.
