Strategic Communications Advisor

Put yourself at the heart of New Zealand's cyber defence

We have a rare opportunity for an experienced communications practitioner to challenge themselves in a truly unique and stimulating environment at the forefront of New Zealand's national security.

About the role:

In this role, you will be designing, developing and implementing the stakeholder engagement and communications approach and activities for the GCSB's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).Day to day, this role will be responsible for a diverse range of tasks including creating communications and stakeholder engagement plans and strategies, managing media requests, writing speeches, producing communications material and collateral, and supporting the communications response to high-profile cyber security incidents. Your work will play a central part in ensuring the reputation of the NCSC is protected and enhanced. You will also work across the wider security and intelligence sector to enhance the New Zealand Intelligence Community's approach to communications.

Who are we looking for?

Your expertise and skills in the following areas will be fundamental to your success:

• A tertiary qualification in a relevant area such as journalism, communications or external public relations
• Demonstrated experience (5 years+) working in an intermediate to senior communications role
• A sound understanding of the machinery of government and our political environment
• Significant experience developing and implementing communications strategies and plans
• Experience in online and digital communications
• Proven ability to work strategically
• Experience writing speeches and developing presentations
• Demonstrated relationship management at all levels
• Ability to find solutions to complex problems.
• A genuine interest in cyber security, and the ability to translate technical concepts into everyday language
• Desirable: An understanding of national security matters, the National Security System, and the role of GCSB and NZSIS within that system

To be successful in this role you will be enthusiastic and self-motivated. Our ideal candidate will have the ability to work collaboratively within the NZIC as well as with other agencies, deliver to deadlines, use sound judgement and have excellent interpersonal skills.

Why Join Us?

Alongside getting to work with other talented people, we also offer a range of comprehensive benefits which include:

• Medical Insurance and Vision Care packages
• Enhanced employer contributions to your Kiwisaver
• Generous Leave benefits, including additional paid days off and enhanced sick and parental leave
• Childcare allowance for your preschoolers
• Onsite free gym (for wellington-based staff)
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth and career pathways across the intelligence community
• Great work-life balance
• If you have a passion for national security, a knack for policy and risk management, and thrive in an operational environment, we encourage you to apply and become part of our team.

Before you apply

Working within our unique environment means we have to ensure you're eligible for employment.You must:

Have been a New Zealand Citizen for at least 10 years

OR

Hold a current NZ Residency Class Visa and ideally have been a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada or Australia for at least 10 years

Be eligible to obtain a Top Secret Special (TSS) security clearance. Ordinarily, this means you'll have a 15-year checkable background in countries NZSIS Vetting can make meaningful and reliable checks.

Still unsure? Use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a TSS security clearance:

The NZIC treats all applications for employment in the strictest confidence, and we expect that you maintain a similar level of confidentiality during the recruitment process and throughout your career.

We'll provide you with information and tips throughout the recruitment process, but in the meantime check out our Myth Busting booklet:

You can also learn more about our work and understand our areas of focus by reading New Zealand's Security Threat Environment | New Zealand Security Intelligence Service