Director Group Communications & Fonterra Brand

About the Role

At Fonterra Te Mātāpuna, we foster an inclusive environment where all individuals can bring their authentic selves to work. As a global dairy cooperative owned by New Zealand farmers, we are united by our values of care, collaboration, and meaningful contribution, working towards a positive future.

We are seeking a Director of Group Communications and Fonterra Brand to oversee how our organisation is perceived by farmers, employees, customers, partners, and communities both in New Zealand and globally. Reporting directly to the Chief Growth & Strategy Officer, this leadership position requires close collaboration with the Fonterra Management Team to vividly convey our strategy, priorities, and performance through clear and engaging communication.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate Fonterra's strategy, priorities, and results into accessible, compelling messaging.
• Build and nurture understanding, trust, and connections across farmers, staff, and vital external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with senior executives to address communication challenges related to reputation and business issues.
• Lead communications during periods of change to ensure clarity about key issues and rationale.
• Enhance communication capabilities throughout the cooperative for improved alignment, consistency, and impact.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader in communications, corporate affairs, or reputation management, with a proven ability to influence outcomes within complex, large-scale organisations. You excel at simplifying complexities and uniting people around a common vision. Comfortable in boardrooms as well as grassroots environments, you are a trusted advisor capable of handling sensitive matters and engaging confidently with diverse audiences.

Essential qualities and experiences include:

• Extensive background in corporate, executive, employee, or stakeholder communications.
• Credibility and prudent judgment when partnering with boards and senior leaders.
• Expertise in reputation management and leading communications through change.
• Strong ability to foster alignment, engagement, and trust among varied stakeholder groups.
• A collaborative leadership approach with a broad, enterprise-wide outlook.

Above all, you recognize communication as a strategic tool to build trust, drive alignment, and enhance organisational performance.

Our Culture and Values

Fonterra is guided by the values of Good Together, Better Every Day, and Every Drop Counts, principles that embrace all employees regardless of background or identity. These values inform our pursuit of excellence for our farmers, customers, communities, and each other.

Employee Benefits

• Competitive and fair compensation.
• Health and well-being initiatives, including medical and mental health support.
• Opportunities for professional and career development.
• Support for work-life balance, including flexible and hybrid working options when feasible.
• Recognition programs to celebrate contributions.
• Encouragement of community engagement and cultural connections.

Inclusion and Diversity

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the world around us, believing this nourishes innovation and better decision-making. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and experiences, embracing diversity in ethnicity, gender, identity, orientation, age, ability, neurotype, culture, and religion. We encourage applications even if you do not meet every listed requirement, valuing potential and growth.

If you require adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please notify the recruitment team to ensure an equitable and supportive experience.