Communications Lead | Kaiārahi Tuku Kōrero (4-Month Fixed-Term)

Lead Parliament’s communications, media, and digital content, shaping how New Zealanders understand and engage with their democracy.

Mō te tīma | About the Team

The Parliamentary Engagement team is a unique collaboration between the Office of the Clerk and Parliamentary Service. Together, we lead Parliament’s engagement strategy — helping New Zealanders better understand, access, and participate in their democracy.

From education to digital content, we deliver innovative, accessible, and inclusive initiatives that bring Parliament closer to the public. Our Communications team plays a central role in this mahi, providing clear, consistent, and engaging messaging across internal and external channels, leading media relationships, and ensuring Parliament’s story resonates with diverse audiences.

We work directly with the public and media to ensure everyone has meaningful opportunities to engage with Parliament’s work.

Mō te tūnga | About the Role

As the Communications Lead, you’ll develop and deliver Parliament’s internal and external communications strategy. You’ll provide trusted advice to senior leaders including the Chief Executive of Parliamentary Service and the Clerk of the House and lead a team to deliver impactful, high‑quality communications across multiple channels.

This fixed‑term (or secondment) role for four months will see you:

• Lead, coach, and support a high‑performing communications team
• Oversee Parliament New Zealand’s social media presence and digital content
• Develop and implement organisation‑wide communications strategies
• Provide expert advice on high‑profile and sensitive projects, including crisis communications
• Build and maintain strong relationships with media, the Press Gallery, and stakeholders across the parliamentary precinct

This is a high‑impact leadership position where your work will directly shape how New Zealanders experience and understand Parliament.

Tō kete | What You’ll Bring

• A relevant tertiary qualification and extensive experience in senior communications roles
• Proven experience managing social media, digital channels, and content creation
• Strong political acumen and understanding of the New Zealand parliamentary environment
• A track record of leading communications strategies in complex organisations
• Excellent relationship management skills, with confidence operating in politically sensitive environments
• Strong leadership capability, with the ability to coach, motivate, and develop a team
• Experience in crisis or issues management (advantageous)

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What We Offer

We offer a range of benefits, including access to an on‑site gym and pool, flexible working arrangements, and learning and development opportunities. Our dynamic environment gives you a front‑row seat to Parliament in action — including Question Time, select committees, and key events. You’ll receive a comprehensive induction and excellent working conditions.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close at midnight on Wednesday 11 February 2026. We will be reviewing applications as they are received and may close the vacancy early if we identify a suitable candidate.

If you have any questions or need support with your application, contact Fredwyn.kisona@parliament.govt.nz for a confidential kōrero.