Lead enterprise‑wide communications across one of New Zealand’s most complex public organisations
Shape communications strategy with agency leaders and partners to support nationally significant programmes
Lead, coach and develop a high‑performing national enterprise communications team
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is seeking a communications leader for the role of Manager, Enterprise Communications – a pivotal senior position responsible for setting direction and lifting excellence across enterprise‑wide communications.
This role leads a national communications team that partners with senior leaders and programme owners across our most significant portfolios. You will shape how NZTA communicates at scale, supporting organisational change, managing reputation and risk, strengthening public trust, and ensuring communications activity is aligned to strategic priorities and delivery expectations.
As a member of the MarComms leadership team, you will contribute to the overall performance and direction of the function. You will influence enterprise priorities, lead capability development, and support consistent, high‑quality communications practice across the organisation.
Find out more about the role here Position Description
Ko koe tēnei | About you
To be successful in this role, you will bring:
Extensive experience providing strategic internal and external communications leadership, preferably within large, complex organisations
A strong track record of leading, coaching and developing high‑performing communications teams
Proven ability to build credibility and trusted relationships with senior leaders, programme owners, government partners and external stakeholders
Demonstrated experience operating in politically and publicly accountable environments, including advising senior leaders on communications risks, issues and opportunities
A deep understanding of the role communications plays in organisational culture, change, reputation and public trust
An enterprise mindset, with the ability to balance competing priorities, manage complexity, and maintain focus on strategic outcomes
You will also demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of, Te Ao Māori, promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori, and have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi as it applies in the public service.
Mō mātou | About us
Te Waka Kōtuia, the Engagement and Partnerships Group, leads agency governance, iwi and stakeholder engagement, and communications in support of Waka Kotahi’s strategic objectives.
Within this group, the MarComms team provides national leadership across communications, marketing, media, content, brand and engagement. As Manager, Enterprise Communications, you will sit at the heart of this leadership team, shaping how the organisation communicates and engages at scale.
Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return
At NZTA, you’ll be part of an organisation with a strong sense of purpose and a genuine commitment to people, wellbeing and inclusion.
We offer:
A competitive salary, commensurate with skills and experience
Flexible working arrangements
Five weeks’ annual leave
Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for permanent employees
A values‑driven culture that supports development, leadership growth and meaningful impact
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
Please click Apply to upload your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.
Rā Katinga | Applications close:
20 April 2026For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz
To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.
Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.
Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.