Strategic Communications Advisor

Put yourself at the heart of New Zealand's cyber defence

We have a rare opportunity for an experienced communications practitioner to challenge themselves in a truly unique and stimulating environment at the forefront of New Zealand's national security.

About the role

In this role, you will be designing, developing and implementing the stakeholder engagement and communications approach and activities for the GCSB's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

Day to day, this role will be responsible for a diverse range of tasks including creating communications and stakeholder engagement plans and strategies, managing media requests, writing speeches, producing communications material and collateral, and supporting the communications response to high-profile cyber security incidents. Your work will play a central part in ensuring the reputation of the NCSC is protected and enhanced. You will also work across the wider security and intelligence sector to enhance the New Zealand Intelligence Community's approach to communications.

Who are we looking for?

A tertiary qualification in a relevant area such as journalism, communications or external public relations

Demonstrated experience (5 years+) working in an intermediate to senior communications role

A sound understanding of the machinery of government and our political environment

Significant experience developing and implementing communications strategies and plans

Experience in online and digital communications

Proven ability to work strategically

Experience writing speeches and developing presentations

Demonstrated relationship management at all levels

Ability to find solutions to complex problems.

A genuine interest in cyber security, and the ability to translate technical concepts into everyday language

Desirable: An understanding of national security matters, the National Security System, and the role of GCSB and NZSIS within that system

To be successful in this role you will be enthusiastic and self-motivated. Our ideal candidate will have the ability to work collaboratively within the NZIC as well as with other agencies, deliver to deadlines, use sound judgement and have excellent interpersonal skills.

Why Join Us?

Alongside getting to work with other talented people, we also offer a range of comprehensive benefits which include:

Medical Insurance and Vision Care packages

Enhanced employer contributions to your Kiwisaver

Generous Leave benefits, including additional paid days off and enhanced sick and parental leave

Childcare allowance for your preschoolers

Onsite free gym (for wellington-based staff)

Opportunities for personal and professional growth and career pathways across the intelligence community

Great work-life balance

If you have a passion for national security, a knack for policy and risk management, and thrive in an operational environment, we encourage you to apply and become part of our team.

Before you apply

Working within our unique environment means we must ensure you’re eligible for employment. You must:

Have been a New Zealand Citizen for at least 10 years

OR

Hold a current NZ Residency Class visa and ideally have been a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada or Australia for at least 10 years

Be eligible to obtain a Top Secret Special (TSS) clearance

Ordinarily this means you will have a 15-year checkable background in countries NZSIS Vetting can make meaningful and reliable checks

Still unsure? Use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a TSS security clearance: http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool

The NZIC treats all applications for employment in the strictest confidence and we expect that you maintain a similar level of confidentiality during the recruitment process and throughout your career.

We’ll provide you with information and tips throughout the recruitment process, but in the meantime check out some of our Security F&Qs here https://beyondordinary.nzic.govt.nz/how-to-apply-for-a-job-with-us/the-security-clearance-process

Job Details

Reference #

Location(s)

Wellington

Salary

Band I $120,358 (90%) - $153,791 (115%)

Midpoint of the salary range (100%) reflects full competence in the role

Closes on

17 Jul 2026 23:55

Work type(s)

Permanent full-time

Job level(s)

Experienced

Expertise

Communications