Senior Judicial Communications Advisor at NZ Ministry of Justice, Wellington City

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Te āhuatunga a te tūranga/About the Role

The Judicial Communications and Publishing Team in the Office of the Chief District Court Judge | Te Whare o ngā Kaihautū Waka o te Kōti-ā-Rohe o Aotearoa (Te Whare) supports the judiciary to increase transparency and accessibility of the criminal, youth, family and civil divisions of the district court and improve public and media understanding of the constitutional role of the judiciary and the principles that underpin our justice system.

Te Whare is seeking two experienced Senior Judicial Communications Advisors. The successful applicants will support the District Court Judicial leadership (and the wider judiciary) and the Director in their interactions with media, and in implementing the courts' communications strategy. They will also be responsible for competently and knowledgably responding to media on issues relating to the divisions of the district court, bringing to the office an advanced understanding of the media environment and what is required to give effect to the principles of open justice in the digital era.

He pūkenga tou/Skills and Experience

Experience at a senior level in communications and in providing trusted strategic advice and complex-issues management are vital for these roles, as are strong written and oral communications skills, including an ability to quickly and accurately synthesise complex material and communicate its essence in plain language. A team player who contributes well in a small and busy office is key. Understanding of judicial and legal systems is highly desirable. These are full-time, permanent positions.

• Experience at the senior level in the communications profession, including provision of communications advice and complex issues management experience.
• Excellent writing and editing skills, with demonstrated ability to write material suited to a range of audiences and delivery mechanisms.
• Knowledge of New Zealand's constitutional arrangements and the independence of the judiciary.
• Understanding of government processes and protocols.
• Digital experience including social media channels would be preferred but not essential.
• Demonstrated, well-developed verbal communication skills, with knowledge of Te Reo Māori desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines and manage multiple projects.

Mō te tīma/About our Team

At Te Tāhū o te Ture - the Ministry of Justice, we're committed to working together for a fair and safe Aotearoa.

Joining the Ministry of Justice means you will become part of an inclusive organisation that values you and the communities we serve. It's our promise to ensure our workplace is one where our people feel healthy and safe, supported and able to be themselves at work. We value respect as the foundation for building a positive workplace culture and one where diversity is welcomed and celebrated. 

Tono mai/How to Apply

To apply, click the Apply button below to be directed to our Careers Website. You can view a detailed position description here, as well as complete an online application form by attaching your CV and cover letter.

Salary Range: The appointing salary for this role will be between $84,366 and $110,172 based on skills and experience.

Applications close on: 30 May 2022

The Ministry's top priority is the safety and wellbeing of its employees. We already have existing protocols in place to provide a safe workplace. We're now strengthening those protocols with a COVID-19 vaccination policy requiring that all roles across Te Tāhū o te Ture are carried out by people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. All candidates are required to declare their COVID-19 vaccination status as part of the application process.

If you have any questions, please contact recruitment@justice.govt.nz