Government Relations & Strategic Communications Manager Skip to content Purposeful, dynamic strategic leadership role within the primary sector Collaborate to build key relationships and positively influence the industry's future Wellington-based role Want to make a difference as part of a highly supportive team and industry working to underpin the future success and prosperity of New Zealand?
You'll be joining an organisation that is passionate about the primary industry, with strong support to lead in your role.
The Organisation Animal and Plant Health Association of New Zealand (APHANZ) is the membership organisation representing global and New Zealand companies, who research, develop, manufacture, distribute, and sell innovative animal health and crop protection.
Our vision is that healthy crops and healthy animals safeguard our sustainability.
Our purpose is to deliver value for members by providing innovative solutions.
We act as a unified voice for our members, advocating for their interests with a solutions focus across government, regulatory authorities, and industry forums.
We are passionate about science, our community, and supporting the future of New Zealand's animal and plant health sector.
The Role Please note that this is a full-time role, based in our Wellington office.
We are looking for a dynamic Government Relations & Strategic Communications Manager to support our efforts.
In this pivotal role, you will drive communication strategies across a spectrum of animal and plant health areas and our wider strategic partnerships.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, you will collaborate to develop and implement strategic initiatives that enhance APHANZ's profile and engagement with a broad spectrum of stakeholders and strategic partners.
This role is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact, build on and elevate a trusted brand.
Your evidence-based communications and storytelling skills will bring to light our talented, passionate membership and the critical work they do for New Zealand and our communities.
You will provide strategic government relations, advocacy, and communication advice.
Proactively building strong enduring strategic relationships with a range of people, including our members, government officials, and wider industry partners, is key to the success of the role.
You will have a proven track record of delivering impactful communications and government engagement strategies and be able to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the industry and how it operates.
From time to time, you will be expected to be involved in other relevant issues and work such as supporting and coordinating responses to adverse events/emergency issues and business contingency planning.
You will create value for members through: A passion for making a difference to people's lives with a strong commitment to communications underpinned by integrity, science evidence based, high quality and honesty to all stakeholders to maintain the organization's strong reputation and trusted brand.
Ensure APHANZ conforms to all statutory and legal requirements regarding communications and engagement.
Proven experience in proactive communications, media management, and public relations, ideally within an agricultural or similar dynamic environment.
Work with the CEO and other team members to agree on an annual advocacy, engagement, and communications strategy, goals and projects, and agreed business plans and budgets for achieving those goals.
A proven track record in demonstrating effective leadership and supporting strong enduring relationships and team culture.
Strong interpersonal skills and a team mindset to effectively liaise with various internal and external parties and to build enduring extensive strategic relationships.
Supporting an emerging leaders cohort within our membership.
Skills & Experience The successful candidate will have: Bachelor's degree in political science, public policy, or a related field.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in strategic government affairs, public policy, or a related field.
Proven experience in developing and implementing successful advocacy strategies in government settings.
Proven experience in developing and implementing successful communications strategies using emerging technology and social media.
Proven strong network and relationships with key stakeholders in government and public affairs.
Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and policies affecting the industry.
Strong knowledge of government relations, government processes, legislative and regulatory frameworks, advocacy, and public policy issues.
Proficient written and presentation skills, general communication, key messaging and report writing (including board reports).
The ability to be agile and work effectively in a role that tends to be reactive.
A strong team player and collaboration mindset.
Organisation We are a small, friendly, highly supportive and collaborative organisation.
In addition to the technical skills listed, the person will be a good fit for the team and have strong alignment to our values – trusted, respected, ambitious and energetic.
The successful candidate will have a proven track record of being a strong team player, with self-initiative and a strong completer, driven to succeed and enjoys engaging with colleagues and other strategic partners to positively contribute to what we are building as a team.
This role will be predominantly based in the Wellington office to support building in-person relationships (internal and external stakeholders), with some flexibility around work from home arrangements negotiable for the right candidate.
Occasional travel can also be expected with the role.
Apply Now If you are looking to make a difference and think you have what it takes, then don't delay, submit your CV and cover letter now!
Don't wait until the closing date to apply as applications will be reviewed/progressed as we go.
Applications close at 5pm on Thursday 17th October 2024.
To be considered for this position you must be legally entitled to work in Aotearoa New Zealand.
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