Senior Advisor Communications

Overview

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of New Zealand is an independent environmental regulator dedicated to protecting the health of the environment, economy, and people through evidence-based decision-making, incorporating both science and mātauranga. Join our dynamic team as we strive to safeguard New Zealand’s future with impactful regulation.

About the Team

The Communications and Customer team, part of the Corporate Services Group, leads and supports communications, media management, corporate publications, government and ministerial engagement, and public information sharing through official channels and customer service.

Role Details

This is a full-time fixed-term position based in Wellington until 31 May 2028. While some work-from-home flexibility is offered, this role is not suitable for full-time remote work. You will collaborate closely with subject-matter experts, particularly within the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms group, to produce and disseminate communications across multiple platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with business units to identify reputational risks and explore communication opportunities.
• Plan and execute communications for internal and external projects and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
• Boost awareness of EPA priorities and projects through engaging storytelling.
• Manage media relations including responding to enquiries, training spokespeople, building strong media relationships, and tracking media trends.
• Proactively identify media opportunities and prepare media releases.
• Contribute to production of a broad range of EPA publications from e-newsletters to corporate documents.
• Simplify complex and technical information to be clear, engaging, and accessible for diverse audiences across various channels.
• Support management of EPA’s digital communication assets including the website, intranet, and social media.
• Provide expert communication advice to EPA’s Board Chair, CEO, and Executive Leadership Team.
• Enhance stakeholder engagement efforts through strategic communication initiatives.
• Monitor and evaluate communications effectiveness and implement continuous improvements.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum of five years in a senior communication role.
• Skilled in creatively conveying technical and environmental topics.
• Experienced in planning and delivering communications across multiple tools and channels.
• Proficient in media management and building media relationships.
• Keen awareness of reputational risks in communications.
• Strong initiative and advanced problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship management skills.
• High attention to detail and ability to handle diverse responsibilities efficiently.

Benefits

• Flexible working arrangements fostering a positive work-life balance.
• Three additional paid leave days between Christmas and New Year on top of four weeks’ annual leave.
• A $400 tax-free allowance for home office setup to support flexible work.
• Paid annual EPA Environment Day dedicated to community environmental initiatives.
• An in-house Māori cultural capability development program.
• Learning opportunities including attendance at the annual EPA Symposium.
• Active social club plus diverse groups and support networks within the organization.
• Recognition through organizational awards celebrating individual and team contributions.

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $106,532 to $159,798 NZD annually, with the midpoint at $133,165. Appointments will typically be made at or below the midpoint depending on experience and skill levels.

Application Process

Please submit your application via the online form, including your CV and a cover letter that outlines your relevant experience and reflects your personal values, background, and motivations for applying. The cover letter is an essential component of the selection process.

Additional Information

The application deadline is 5pm on Friday, 31 July 2026. Applications will be reviewed on receipt, and early selection may occur.