Communications & Brand Engagement Manager

About LIC

LIC is a farmer-owned cooperative dedicated to improving the herds of New Zealand’s dairy sector for over 115 years. Our core offerings include high-quality genetics, accurate testing and diagnostics, integrated on-farm software, and excellent customer service with the goal of helping farmers make informed decisions daily.

We pride ourselves on being a generational cooperative focused on supporting farmers, their families, and rural communities both now and for the future. Our team, whether on farms, in labs, or behind the scenes, plays a critical role in helping New Zealand farmers thrive.

Role Overview

Reporting to the Head of Customer Experience, the Communications and Brand Engagement Manager holds a vital leadership position, directing how LIC communicates and engages with farmer shareholders, customers, and industry stakeholders to build trust and connection.

As an integral part of the Customer Experience leadership team, you will guide LIC's strategies in communications, marketing, branding, digital and social media, events, and sponsorships. This role demands a commercially savvy storyteller and influential leader who can convert strategic goals into tangible outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee LIC’s communication, marketing, brand, digital, social media, event, and sponsorship strategies.
• Ensure a consistent, customer-focused brand and communication experience.
• Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing team specializing in communications and marketing.
• Use data-driven insights and performance metrics to attain measurable results.
• Provide reliable communications advice to senior leadership and the Board.
• Elevate LIC’s profile via strategic partnerships and sponsorship initiatives.
• Ensure corporate communications meet NZX compliance and maintain high standards.
• Monitor trends and anticipate opportunities and risks to inform communication strategy.
• Manage media relations, handle issues, and lead crisis communication efforts.
• Establish and uphold communication policies, frameworks, and governance best practices.

Qualifications and Experience

• Established senior leadership experience in communications, marketing, and/or brand management.
• Excellent skills in written, verbal, and stakeholder communication.
• Experience in advising and influencing senior executives and leaders.
• Strong leadership abilities with a focus on coaching and team development.
• Strategic thinking skills combined with commercial insight and sound judgment.
• Expertise in developing integrated marketing and communication strategies.
• Effective project management and prioritization capabilities.
• Ability to translate data and insights into strategic actions.
• Expertise in reputation management, media relations, and handling crisis communications.
• A genuine passion for building brands, engaging diverse audiences, and driving impactful results.

Perks and Benefits

• Additional leave days beyond standard entitlements.
• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Discounted health, life, income protection, and disability insurance options.
• Access to employee share purchase scheme.
• Wellbeing discounts and initiatives.
• Free onsite parking and electric vehicle charging stations for employees.
• Access to a scenic Hamilton office located in a park-like setting with amenities including tennis courts, swimming pool, onsite café, and social club.

Additional Information

This position offers a chance to join an innovative and forward-looking agri-tech organization. The role is crucial and enjoys strong endorsement from senior leadership, who recognize the communications function's strategic importance. The team you will lead is enthusiastic and deeply committed to telling LIC’s story.