Senior Media & Communications Advisor
Senior Media and Communications Advisor
Are you a senior media and communications professional who brings sharp strategic judgement and the kind of storytelling that makes an organisation's voice count - on hunger, housing, and health inequity?
About Us Te Tāpui Atawhai Auckland City Mission supports Aucklanders in greatest need. Since our doors opened over 104 years ago, we have responded with care and compassion to the city's evolving social needs. We are deeply committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi as a core principle. Known as Te Tāpui Atawhai, our Māori name symbolises our commitment to Tangata Whenua. We offer support in whatever way is needed, fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where staff feel valued and respected.
About the Role Based at HomeGround (140 Hobson Street, Auckland), this critical role leads all media and government relations activity. Reporting to the Marketing & Communications Manager, you will position the Mission as a credible, values-driven voice on hunger, housing, health inequity, and social justice issues. You will provide expert strategic communications advice to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and Advocacy team, ensuring our voice is influential and culturally grounded.
What you will be doing
- Lead proactive and reactive media activity, building and maintaining strong relationships with journalists, editors, and commentators.
- Prepare media releases, statements, talking points, and Q&As while strategically managing reputational risks.
- Provide expert advice on government relations and monitor political developments related to hunger, housing, health, and social policy.
- Prepare the CEO and approved spokespeople for media interviews, providing coaching on key messages, risk areas, and narrative discipline.
- Lead the development of key communications assets, including the Annual Report and strategic messaging frameworks.
- Translate complex social issues into compelling public messaging that invites empathy, understanding, and action.
- Lead crisis and issues management, including early risk detection and scenario planning.
- Uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi by actively preventing deficit framing of Māori communities and ensuring cultural safety in all communications.
What You Will Bring
- Significant senior-level experience (5+ years) in media relations, public affairs, or strategic communications in a complex or high-profile environment.
- Strong understanding and commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and how it applies to your work.
- Established media networks and high credibility, alongside excellent writing skills for statements, speeches, releases, and opinion pieces.
- Strong understanding of central and local government processes and political dynamics.
- Sound judgement, calmness under pressure, and the ability to respond strategically.
- A relevant qualification is preferred, though equivalent experience gained through community work, peer support, or volunteering is warmly welcomed.
- Lived experience of homelessness, recovery, or social challenges is respected and valued in this role.
- A current full New Zealand Driver Licence.
What we offer
- Opportunities to strengthen cultural connection through weekly Kapa Haka, waiata, and monthly romiromi.
- Access to EAP & external supervision.
- “Mission Leave” provides an opportunity to focus on wellbeing along with annual and sick leave.
- Tangihanga leave.
- Access to sick leave from your 1st day of employment.
- Ongoing training and development.
- Staff discounts at Auckland City Mission Op Shops and Pharmacy.
- Access to low cost, fresh produce through the Mission Grocer.
- Convenient access to public transport and discounted parking options.
- Opportunities for career progression within the Mission.
About the Organisation
Auckland City Mission – Te Tāpui Atawhai works alongside people in Tāmaki Makaurau facing poverty, homelessness, hunger, and isolation.
With over 100 years of service, we deliver integrated support across housing, food, health and recovery, supporting tens of thousands of Aucklanders every year. Our work is grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and guided by our values; Manaakitanga, Rangapū, Atawhai, and Manatika/Mana Ōrite.
We believe in people, collective responsibility, and hope - and invite those who share our values to join us.
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
