Senior Advisor, Comms

Senior Advisor, Comms

Permanent, full-time position based anywhere in New Zealand.

Develop and deliver strategic communications that support better health outcomes for all New Zealanders.

Provide trusted communications advice while building strong relationships and finding innovative ways to connect with our audiences.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is the country's largest employer, delivering universal public healthcare to 5 million New Zealanders.

We provide essential hospital, specialist, and community health services across 80+ locations - from large urban centres to rural towns and remote communities.

Our goal is to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders by delivering equitable, accessible and innovative care.

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Senior Advisor to join our Communications & Engagement team within Business Communications. This is an opportunity to contribute to the development and delivery of communications strategies that support Health New Zealand's priorities and help achieve better health outcomes for people across Aotearoa.

Working across a portfolio, you'll provide high-quality communications advice, lead the implementation of communications strategies and develop engaging content for a range of audiences. You'll work closely with colleagues across Communications & Engagement and the wider organisation to identify opportunities, manage risks, solve complex issues and ensure communications are delivered effectively and to a high standard.

You'll also play an important role in strengthening communications capability, bringing fresh ideas and an agile approach to continuous improvement. The role works collaboratively with Hauora Māori Service and Pacific Health colleagues to ensure the voices and aspirations of Māori and Pacific peoples are reflected in planning and delivery.

About You

You are an experienced communications professional who is confident providing strategic advice, navigating complex and pressured environments, and building trusted relationships with stakeholders at all levels.

You will bring:

• A relevant qualification in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, politics or a related field, with around five years' experience in a communications role.
• Demonstrated experience contributing to communications strategies and leading their implementation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with excellent analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Proven relationship management skills and experience implementing Te Tiriti o Waitangi in action. Health sector or government experience would be highly beneficial.

You'll be adaptable, curious and collaborative, with the confidence to exercise sound judgement, manage competing priorities and find practical solutions in complex and ambiguous situations.

Working for Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

To apply, please click "apply now." All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal by 11:59PM Sunday 30 August 2026. For further information, please contact Nicole Rickard on Nicole.Rickard@TeWhatuOra.Govt.NZ.

The full position description is available on the Health New Zealand Careers site.

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advert.