General Manager Communications

About Us \| Mō mātou

At the Department of Internal Affairs \| Te Tari Taiwhenua, the work we do touches the lives of all New Zealanders. Joining us means being part of something bigger - helping deliver services and outcomes that really matter.

Our Communications Group brings together a diverse team of experts working across programme communications, media relations, and support for official visits and events. It’s a fast-paced, interesting environment where the work is varied, meaningful, and highly visible.

The role \| Te tūnga

We’re looking for an experienced leader to head up our Communications Group and play a key role at the executive level.

In this role, you’ll work closely with the Secretary of Internal Affairs and our Executive Leadership Team to shape how we tell our story—internally and externally— supporting and strengthening the Department’s profile.

You will be responsible for setting and delivering the Department’s communications strategy, ensuring a cohesive, effective approach across our organisation. This includes internal and external communications, as well as supporting key initiatives and responsibilities of the Secretary.

You’ll lead a team of talented professionals and oversee a broad portfolio—from major programmes through to media and high-profile events—bringing it all together into a cohesive, high-performing function.

What you bring \| Nōu te rourou

• Significant Communications leadership experience within large and/or complex public sector organisation or relevant private sector experience
• Proven experience advising on strategic issues from a communications perspective
• Proven experience working in large, complex and diverse organisations
• A demonstrated history of achievement in the development and delivery of high-quality strategic communications advice
• Experience in leading and managing high performing communications teams

For you \| Mōu

At Internal Affairs, we’re proud of the culture we’re building—collaborative, forward-thinking, and open to new ideas. You’ll be supported to do your best work, grow your impact, and challenge the status quo where it matters.

If you’re looking for a role where you can make a genuine difference at a national level, this is it.

To learn more about the diverse, important mahi we do at the Department and see why we're a great place to work check out our website https://www.dia.govt.nz/

Benefits - About Internal Affairs - Careers with us - Benefits - dia.govt.nz

The appointing range for this role $200,431 - $249,426.

To access a full job description please click here

How to apply \| Me pēhea te tuku tono

We are unable to accept applications via email. Please click the apply button to submit your application.

We're committed to ensuring our application process is accessible to everyone. Please let us know if there is any support, we can provide to ensure the process is accessible to you.

Applications for this role close Wednesday 22 nd July 5.00pm . Please also note that you must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this role.

Please contact Jo Attewell at [email protected] for a confidential discussion (available after the 14th of July), or Diane Laughton at [email protected] for any general enquiries.