Head of Communications and Engagement

Role overview

This is a senior leadership opportunity focused on safeguarding and strengthening the public reputation of a major water services organisation during a period of sector-wide change. The role is based in Petone, with flexible working options available, and requires 40 hours of work each week.

What you will do

• Shape and lead the organisation’s internal and external communications and engagement direction.
• Advise the Chief Executive, Executive Leadership Team, and governance stakeholders on strategic communications and reputation matters.
• Spot, assess, and respond to emerging reputational threats and issues.
• Oversee corporate communications, staff engagement, media relations, digital channels, and engagement with stakeholders and the community.
• Build, guide, and develop a high-performing team made up of different communication and engagement disciplines.

What the role offers

In this position, you will play a visible and influential part in executive and governance decision-making while helping position the organisation as the trusted water services provider for the Wellington region. The work sits in a complex, politically sensitive environment and during an important transformation for the sector.

What we are looking for

• Extensive senior-level experience in strategic communications and engagement.
• Demonstrated success leading and developing effective teams.
• Deep capability in issue management, crisis communications, and emergency communications.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, relationship-building, and influencing skills.
• A steady and resilient leadership style suited to ambiguous and high-pressure environments.

Benefits

• Flexible work arrangements, including the option to work from home up to two days each week.
• A wellbeing programme that includes one paid wellbeing day per year.
• Access to both structured and informal professional development.
• Eligibility for 5 weeks of annual leave after 2 years of continuous service.

About the organisation

Wellington Water provides drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater services across Greater Wellington and South Wairarapa. As a multi-council-owned organisation, it manages essential infrastructure and services for the community. From 1 July 2026, Tiaki Wai will take over responsibility for Three Waters services for around 433,000 people in the Wellington metro area. Wellington Water employees will move into the new council-owned entity when that transition occurs.

The organisation places strong value on water as a treasured taonga and is guided by the values of Tangata Tiaki, Whānau, and Mana.

Application notes

Applications close on Thursday 25 June 2026. A position description is available on request. If you are a current Wellington Water employee, you should apply using your work email. For more information, contact JoinUs@wellingtonwater.co.nz.

Safety and work eligibility

Because this is a safety-sensitive role, the successful candidate will need to complete drug and alcohol testing before starting. Applicants must be legally allowed to work long-term in New Zealand, or be eligible to obtain a work visa.