Principal Strategic Communications Advisor at Taumata Arowai, Wellington - Wairarapa

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Wellington-based role
• Shape the Authority's strategic narrative
• Work alongside passionate people improving water quality across Aotearoa

Lead the development and delivery of exemplary strategic communications and engagement strategies.

Ko wai mātou | About us

The Water Services Authority - Taumata Arowai is the water services regulator for Aotearoa New Zealand. It is a Crown entity governed by a Minister-appointed Board and advised on Māori interests and knowledge by Te Puna, a statutory Māori Advisory Group. Our responsibilities are to protect and promote drinking water safety and related public health outcomes - we regulate drinking water suppliers on behalf of the public. We also have an oversight role in relation to the environmental performance of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater networks.

If you're a passionate and driven individual who shares our vision for making water safe every day for everyone, then join us and be part of making a difference.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

The Principal Strategic Communications Advisor will lead the development and delivery of strategic external communications and engagement strategies that grow the Authority's reputation as a credible, trusted regulator and increase its social licence among people in New Zealand.

As the Principal Strategic Communications Advisor, you will:

• shape and deliver the Authority's strategic narrative and engagement approach to grow the Authority's social licence to operate as a regulator
• manage the end-to-end development and delivery of integrated and measurable communications strategies and plans for the Authority's most complex projects and issues
• develop strategic communications content that is written in plain language, is technically accurate and presented in ways that best match the intended audience/s
• advise and support senior leaders, including the Chief Executive on emerging issues and opportunities.

Innovation and creativity are key drivers in the way we work – our size requires us to be smart and agile.

Ko koe tēnei | About you

We are looking for someone who has:

• a tertiary qualification or equivalent experience in communications, journalism or similar
• extensive experience in strategic communications, including collaborating with and working alongside diverse stakeholders and navigating complex environments
• central government and/or local government experience
• experience communicating scientific and technical content
• the ability to take a strategic approach to all forms of communication, including media, social media, public information and channel management
• ideally, experience in social licence communications and building enduring relationships
• a reputation as a team player with a positive, can-do attitude and a commitment to excellence.

To learn more about working at the Authority, please visit our Ngā Mahi | Careers Page

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted through our Talent Portal, click here to be redirected.

Rā Katinga | Applications close 5:00pm Monday 17 November 2025.

You must have a legal right to work in New Zealand.