Communications Manager - Christchurch
Mo tatou | About us - What we do
Our role at Antarctica New Zealand is to support world-leading science and environmental protection in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean - including the operation of Scott Base, management of logistics to, from and within Antarctica and raising of public awareness regarding the global significance of the continent.
Mō te mahi | About the role - What you’ll be doing
Help tell one of the world’s most important stories...
Antarctica is changing — and how we communicate New Zealand’s role there matters more than ever. From world‑leading science to the redevelopment of Scott Base, Antarctica New Zealand is delivering work of national and global significance. We’re looking for an experienced Communications Manager to lead how these stories are told.
As Communications Manager, you’ll lead the internal/external communications brand and media function, shaping and delivering a strategic approach that supports our purpose and long-term priorities. You’ll ensure New Zealand’s activities in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean are communicated clearly, credibly, and with impact — to government, stakeholders, partners, media, and the public.
This is a hands-on leadership role where strategy meets storytelling. You’ll guide a small, skilled communications team and work closely with leaders across the organisation to turn complex science, operational activity, and policy work into compelling, coordinated communications.
You’ll be responsible for:
- Leading and delivering a strategic communications and media approach aligned with organisational priorities
- Providing trusted advice to senior leaders on reputation, risk, and opportunity
- Ensuring consistent, high-quality communications across digital, media, reporting, and stakeholder channels
- Building strong relationships with media, partners, and external stakeholders
- Leading, mentoring, and developing communications team members
- Supporting major science, operational, and organisational initiatives through clear, effective storytelling
Mōu | About you - What you’ll bring
You’re a confident communications leader who can think strategically and deliver practically. You’re comfortable working with complexity, navigating risk, and tailoring messages for diverse audiences.
Key competencies to work in this role include:
- Experience in communications and media leadership
- Strong strategic thinking and excellent writing skills
- A calm, credible presence when working with senior leaders and external stakeholders
- Experience turning complex or technical subject matter into clear, engaging communications
- A collaborative style and genuine interest in developing others
Experience in science, environment, government, or public sector organisations is an advantage — but curiosity, judgement, and adaptability matter just as much.
Why join us?
- Work on issues of global significance
- Be part of a purpose driven organisation with a unique mandate
- Lead communications for worldclass Antarctic science and operations
- Based in Christchurch, with close connection to our Antarctica programme
Tono mai ināianei | Apply now:
This is an exciting opportunity to be a part of an organisation with a real and tangible purpose - if you’re motivated by meaningful work and ready to lead communications that make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you. For further details and to view a role description click apply.
Applications close 12pm, 27 April 2026
For any questions, please contact people@antarcticanz.govt.nz
One of Antarctica New Zealand's core values is 'we care for each other and the environment’. We actively encourage applications from all cultures, beliefs and backgrounds and are committed to ensuring our culture is welcoming, accessible, equitable and safe for all. The successful candidate will undergo pre-employment checks including medical assessment. All applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand.
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
.jpg){kind=logo}