Strategic Communications Manager

Develop and implement a multi-faceted, strategic communications framework that reflects the organisation’s ambitions. - Strengthen relationships and influence change through compelling narratives and insightful content. - Provide leadership and direction to a dedicated team. Competitive salary + professional development Here’s our latest opportunity **About the organisation** Sport Waikato is at an exciting stage in its history as it looks to accelerate towards its next horizon. Guided by “Moving Waikato” - its strategy to grow participation in play, active recreation, and sport in the Waikato region - its vision is to have “Everyone out there, active”, reaching all communities from the Coromandel to Turangi, Waihi to Kawhia and everywhere in between. Passionate, knowledgeable, and innovative in its thought leadership, it is motivated by its vision and a desire to see communities benefit from being active. With a keen eye on the changing dynamics of society, lifestyle and demand, it strives to stay ahead of the curve creating a positive future for generations to come. Mahia te mahi hei painga moo te iwi. Doing the work for the betterment of the people. **About the Role** To amplify our impact and voice, we are seeking a **Strategic Communications Manager** - a dynamic leader who will shape and champion our communications, storytelling, and thought leadership across local, national, and international stages. Reporting to the Head of Innovation & Digital, you will: - Lead and inspire a high-performing team, building capability through a culture of curiosity and creativity. - Develop and implement a communications strategy that brings a vision to life and sparks the desire to influence change through compelling narratives. - Own all strategic content outputs, including white papers, research articles, to maintain effective brand management and consistency of messaging. - Foster and maintain high-value relationships, acting as a primary point of contact for media enquiries and representing the organisation to ensure Sport Waikato’s voice is heard where it matters most. - Develop external digital presence and lead the creation of internal communications, ensuring cross-function collaboration, evaluating delivery and making improvements to connect, align and inspire. - Be the trusted advisor to the leadership team, providing advice and counsel on communication strategies and media enquiries, amplifying key campaigns, initiatives and stakeholder events. **About you** We’re looking for an experienced and future-focused communicator who understands the power of narrative to drive meaningful change. You will bring: - Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field ideally within a community-based or not-for-profit sector. - A strong track record in strategic communications, brand positioning and influence, with a talent for recognising opportunities and risks. - Experience leading organisations through growth and change, building both capability and confidence. - Digital fluency and the ability to leverage new platforms and insights for maximum impact. - Exceptional stakeholder relationships with the ability to engage diverse audiences, adjusting content to ensure relevancy and understanding. - A collaborative approach and commitment to continuous learning - A passion for creating impact in health, wellbeing, and community outcomes **Why Sport Waikato?** You will be part of a passionate and supportive team where your expertise will directly contribute to healthier futures for people across the region. We offer a flexible, values-led work environment where innovation, learning, and people come first. **Benefits** - Flexible and hybrid working. - Employee centric staff wellbeing programme - Professional development available for all employees. - Culture capability (Māori) personal development. - EAP services. - Whaanau first philosophy including access to discretionary leave for life "curve balls". For a confidential chat please call Recruitment Partner, Helen Dale, on 027 267 9725.