External Communications Specialist - Public Affairs Full-time
Primary Location: Auckland
Contract Type: Fixed Term Full Time
Hato Hone St John has been serving New Zealanders and working to save lives since 1885. As well as providing Ambulance Services, our programmes and team of over 11,000 staff and volunteers are helping to build strong, resilient communities across the motu; supporting everyone in Aotearoa to live healthier, happier and longer lives.
We are seeking an experienced External Communications Specialist - Public Affairs to join our team in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch. This is a 12m fixed term parental leave cover.
This role supports Hato Hone St John's public affairs and strategic communications strategy by creating quality content and building key relationships to protect and enhance the organisation's reputation. It focuses on engaging with media, government and sector agencies, and community stakeholders, while managing complex communications issues to strengthen the organisation's public profile.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and execute comprehensive external communication plans and campaigns to promote the organisation's strategic priorities, programs of work, and achievements.
Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, coordinating interviews, press releases, and media events.
Manage crisis communication efforts, ensuring timely and appropriate responses to potential issues or negative publicity.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders to gather information and align messaging across various communication channels.
Monitor and analyse media coverage, industry trends, and public sentiment to identify opportunities and address potential concerns.
Maintain strong relationships with key media contacts, government and sector agencies, and community partners.
Ko wai koe - About you:
Are you an experienced Comms Specialist looking for a new challenge in 2025 and keen to work for a truly purposeful organisation? We are seeking the following:
Significant proven experience in public affairs and media relations (experience within a medium-large NGO or service organisation would be advantageous).
Highly developed influencing and relationship building skills with well-developed external communication and media networks.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to craft compelling messages for diverse audiences.
Interest and knowledge of politics, public affairs, government relations, and regulatory environments.
Ability to work calmly under pressure and prioritise work.
Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment and be able to quickly adapt to change.
Me pehea te tuku tono - How to apply:
Click " Apply now " before applications close 06th December.
For further information please contact Lindsey Frankland at ****** or call 0800 STJOHN for a confidential discussion.
At Hato Hone St John, we embrace diversity, welcoming everyone to bring their authentic selves to work. We value unique perspectives, fostering inclusivity to better serve our communities, and we're committed to creating a workplace where everyone belongs.
If you need accommodations for accessibility, please reach out to the recruiter listed for equitable participation in our recruitment process.
Research shows that women and people from under-represented groups are less likely to apply for roles when their experience doesn't match the job description perfectly. If you're excited and think you have what it takes, we want to hear from you! Even if your experience doesn't align 100%. Please apply or contact the recruitment advisor listed on the advertisement for a korero.
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