E ngā iwi, e ngā karangatanga huri noa i te motu, tēnei te mihi atu ki a koutou katoa. He īnoi tēnei ki a koe. Tono mai ki tētahi tūnga ki te Kaunihera o Ōtautahi
Looking for a role where your strategic communications expertise can make a real impact? This is one of the South Island's most influential positions in public sector communications and an opportunity to shape how a major city connects with its people.
About the team | Ko te rōpū nei
Christchurch City Council employs around 3,000 people committed to delivering a wide range of services that support the wellbeing and prosperity of our communities. These include libraries, parks, pools, water and waste services, transport and infrastructure, urban planning, environmental protection, community development, emergency management, and regulatory services. We work in partnership with residents to build a city that is liveable, inclusive, resilient, and well-prepared for the future.
About the role | Ko te mahi nei
The Head of Communications & Engagement is a senior leadership role responsible for guiding Council's communications strategy, reputation management, and stakeholder engagement. Leading a high-performing team, you'll oversee internal and external communications, brand strategy, media relations, and digital platforms.
You'll bring strategic insight, sound judgement, and the ability to operate effectively in a political environment. As a trusted advisor to the Chief Executive, the Mayor and senior leaders, you'll provide guidance on messaging, reputational risk, and engagement priorities.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading Council-wide communications and engagement strategies
- Overseeing brand, media, digital, and corporate communications
- Advising on high-profile issues and managing reputational risk
- Developing frameworks and systems for effective engagement
- Building strong relationships with elected members, community leaders, and stakeholders
- Supporting bicultural competence and understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi
About you | Ko Koe Tēnei
You're an experienced communications leader with a track record of innovation, strategic thinking, and team leadership. Calm under pressure and collaborative by nature, you're skilled across proactive promotion, issues management, and public education. You understand the value of clear, accessible communication and can demonstrate impact and value for money in a complex, fast-paced environment.
If this sounds like an interesting opportunity, you think you have what it takes and want to get involved in shaping our City then please apply today.
Additional Information | Ko ētahi atu kōrero:
At the Christchurch City Council, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways.
We understand that recruitment processes can be challenging. If you require any support or adjustments to help you put your best foot forward, please reach out to us at [email protected]
- Hours of work - 40 hours per week
- Position - Permanent
- Location - This position is primarily based at Te Hononga, Christchurch City Council Civic Offices - 53 Hereford Street
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews may take place prior to the close date. This means we reserve the right to close a job ad before the advertised close date.
