Director Stakeholder Communications

Ready to lead communications for one of New Zealand’s most visible and purpose-driven public sector organisations? Customs is looking for an exceptional senior leader to shape how we connect, influence and engage—inside and outside the organisation. This is a permanent full-time opportunity based in Wellington.

Why this role matters... Customs plays a vital role in protecting and promoting Aotearoa New Zealand’s interests. From securing our borders and disrupting illicit trade to enabling the safe movement of people and goods, our work sits at the heart of national security, economic wellbeing and public trust. This role gives you the chance to help tell that story, guide engagement on high-profile issues, and support work that matters every day to communities across New Zealand and our international partners.

What You’ll Lead…

The Director Stakeholder Communications is a pivotal senior leadership role leading Customs’ Communications and Engagement function. You will shape the strategic direction for internal and external communications, stakeholder engagement, media, channels, events and ministerial servicing—bringing these elements together into a clear, connected and high-performing whole. Working closely with senior leaders across Customs, you will help drive strategic priorities, strengthen organisational alignment, manage reputational risk and support the long-term outcomes we are here to deliver.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a high-impact function at the centre of Customs. You will lead a capable and trusted team that helps the organisation communicate with clarity, confidence and purpose—whether supporting internal engagement, strengthening stakeholder relationships, or responding to a fast-moving and complex operating environment.

Working closely with the Deputy Chief Executive, International and Governance, and other senior leaders, you will help shape Customs’ strategic narrative, guide engagement with key stakeholders, and position the organisation to respond to opportunities, risks and emerging issues. You will also lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement while building strong confidence in the advice and support your function provides.

What You’ll Bring…

• Senior leadership experience ideally gained in communications, stakeholder engagement, media, and ministerial servicing.
• A strong understanding of the public sector context, including the machinery of government, political neutrality, ministerial processes, and the importance of reputation and public confidence.
• Proven ability to develop and implement strategy and deliver results in complex environments.
• Experience managing reputational risk and operating in politically sensitive contexts.
• Strong people leadership capability, including coaching and developing senior leaders.
• Ability to use data, insights, and digital approaches to inform decision-making.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to provide clear, impartial advice.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance
• A relevant tertiary education qualification or equivalent work experience at a senior level.

Why you’ll enjoy working here

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At Customs, you’ll join a team that is purposeful, collaborative and committed to making a difference. We invest in our people through on-the-job learning, formal development opportunities and leadership programmes, and we encourage movement across a diverse range of roles. We value inclusion, support flexible working where possible within our operational requirements, and offer a workplace where people can grow, contribute and belong. Our people also enjoy discounted health insurance, free on-site gyms in some locations, and three days of service holidays in addition to four weeks of annual leave.

How to apply

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To join Customs in any role you must be a New Zealand citizen or New Zealand permanent resident* and be able to obtain and maintain an Organisational Security clearance. This role requires the successful applicant to obtain and maintain security clearance to Top Secret level.

(*) A New Zealand Citizen or New Zealand Permanent Resident who has resided continuously in New Zealand for the last ten years, (including ten years ago from the date of this application) and resides in New Zealand at time of application.

OR

A New Zealand Citizen or New Zealand Permanent Resident who has resided continuously in New Zealand for the last ten years, (including ten years ago from the date of this application) and resides in New Zealand at time of application who has travelled out of New Zealand for short periods of time i.e. < 6 months in one of the following countries: Australia, United Kingdom, United States or Canada and can provide police certificates from those countries for the period of absence.

Because of the nature of Customs’ work you must have a clear Police record. Organisational security clearances are mandatory and are conducted by Customs. You will also be required to pass a drug test.

Click on the apply button to submit your application.

To express your interest, please apply on-line by submitting an up-to-date CV and cover letter that demonstrates your suitability and motivation for the role. For further information about this position, please view the position description attached or contact Suzanne Leahy (Senior Corporate Recruitment Advisor) at ***email_hidden***

Deadline for applications is 11pm, Wednesday 24 June 2026.

We encourage prompt application for this role as we will be shortlisting applications as they are received and may close the role earlier than the above closing date.

Please note Customs will be managing this recruitment independently in-house and will not be engaging with recruitment agencies at this stage.

New Zealand Customs Service | Te Mana Ārai o Aotearoa is a member of Diversity Works New Zealand and is committed to developing a diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities and welcome applications from everyone who can meet the requirements of the role.