Senior Advisor

Lead strategic communications and engagement on high-impact infrastructure projects.
- Collaborate with a dynamic and experienced team on challenging initiatives.
- Make a difference in communities through excellent public sector engagement.
- Permanent role based in Auckland

**Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity**
An exciting opportunity to be part of delivering best-practice strategic engagement and communications for transport infrastructure programmes, projects and operations across the Auckland and Northland regions.

If you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment on complex, inter-linked projects or programmes of work that require you to develop great, lasting relationships with a wide range of groups; if you have experience in the inner workings of government; developing great narratives across a range of modern media and digital channels; and identifying and managing risks, then we would love to hear from you

As a Senior Advisor you'll lead and deliver strategic communications and engagement activities across key infrastructure projects. In this role, you'll work with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure effective storytelling, reputation and risk management, and community engagement, contributing to the success of Agency's mission while making a real difference in the lives of people living in our region. Key responsibilities include:

- Develop and implement strategic communications and engagement plans
- Deliver high-quality content across appropriate channels
- Build relationships with stakeholders, partners, and communities
- Identify opportunities to enhance Waka Kotahi NZTA's reputation
- Support change initiatives and coach others in communications best practices
- Support planning and consenting process as required

This role requires a willingness and ability to travel regularly across the Auckland / Northland region, recognising the importance of being present in the communities we serve.

You will find out more about the role here: Position Description

**Ko koe tenei | About you**

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

- Extensive experience at a senior level in communications and stakeholder engagement
- A proven track record supporting complex, infrastructure-related projects
- Exceptional communication, engagement, and presentation skills - both written and verbal
- Public sector experience and a sound understanding of government processes
- The ability to thrive in dynamic project environments, working collaboratively while managing ambiguity and change
- Strong community engagement experience, with the ability to build trust and rapport across diverse audiences

**Qualifications**:

- Tertiary qualification in communications or related discipline.
- IAP2 training or qualification.

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Maori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Maori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public service.

**Mo matou | About Us**

Te Waka Kotuia Engagement and Partnerships Group is accountable for leading effective agency governance, stakeholder engagement and communications, and regional relationships. We support Waka Kotahi's goals through great organisational storytelling, cross-government facilitation, reputation management, and strengthened partnerships.

**Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return**

Join a team that values diversity, inclusion, and professional growth.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Flexible working arrangements
- 5 weeks annual leave and an Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance scheme available for all permanent employees.

**Me pehea te tuku tono | How to apply**

**Ra Katinga | Applications close**:15 August 2025

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

NZTA| Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.