Strategic Communications Lead

About the Role

Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland, is New Zealand's largest university with more than 47,000 students and over 6,000 staff. As a globally connected institution focused on advancing knowledge and shaping futures, the university has introduced the position of Strategic Communications Lead within its newly formed Communications division. This role is designed to enhance and shape the university's public reputation among its key audiences.

The role centers on leveraging data-driven insights to understand audience perceptions and translate organizational priorities into powerful communication strategies that produce measurable results. Reporting directly to the Director of Communications, you will provide leadership over the Strategic Communications function, developing institutional narratives, positioning strategies, executive communication, and activities aimed at reputation building.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and refine the university's institutional narrative and messaging strategy
• Utilize audience research and insights to craft communication approaches that build trust and strengthen the university's reputation
• Support the university's global standing and strategic priorities through communications initiatives
• Create audience-focused messaging frameworks and positioning strategies
• Provide leadership in communications during reputationally sensitive events, incidents, or crises
• Collaborate closely with the Vice-Chancellor's Office and senior leadership on complex communication matters
• Assist in managing major institutional announcements, initiatives, and change programs

Candidate Profile

• Extensive experience in strategic communications, corporate affairs, or reputation management
• Proven ability advising senior executives and organizational leaders
• Strong expertise in audience insight, segmentation, and messaging strategy
• Successful track record in developing organizational narratives and positioning frameworks
• Competence in managing crisis, risk, and issue communications
• Exemplary writing, storytelling, and communication skills
• Demonstrated leadership in building and managing high-performing teams
• Cultural understanding with experience crafting communications for diverse audiences, including knowledge of Te Ao Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi
• Ability to influence effectively, engage in constructive challenge, and foster trusted stakeholder relationships

Benefits and Workplace Culture

The university offers a rich and inclusive work environment with access to diverse communications challenges impacting staff, students, and communities globally. Benefits include:

• A balanced 37.5 hour workweek with flexible and hybrid/remote working options
• Attractive remuneration package ranging from NZD 114,400 to 169,800 annually, including up to 6.75% superannuation and performance-related salary increases
• Five weeks of annual leave plus opportunity to buy or sell additional leave
• Support for parents and carers through on-site childcare, gender-neutral parental leave, parenting and feeding facilities
• Comprehensive wellbeing services including counselling, financial advice, neurodiversity coaching, fitness center access, and discounted health insurance
• Extensive professional development programs covering leadership, digital skills, and cultural learning, including Te Reo Māori
• Opportunities for career growth within a complex and diverse organization

Additional Information

The University of Auckland is committed to equity, accessibility, and Treaty of Waitangi obligations, fostering an inclusive environment for staff and students. Reasonable accommodations and support for whānau or support persons during interview processes are welcomed to promote an equitable recruitment experience.