Clear, strategic communication plays an important role in helping people understand the challenges we face and the decisions we make together.

Across our diverse region we support communities, partners and stakeholders to care for our land, water, air and coast for future generations.

We are now seeking a motivated and collaborative Strategic Communications Advisor to join our Communications and Partnerships team and contribute to how we communicate about the work that matters most to our region.

This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys working as part of a team, supporting communication on complex environmental issues and helping teams across the organisation connect effectively with our communities.

This role assists in strengthening how Environment Southland plans and delivers communication and engagement. You will work with leaders and teams across the organisation to help develop communication strategies, support key issues, and ensure our messages are clear, consistent and aligned with our wider organisational goals.

In this role, you'll be:

• Providing communications advice across the organisation.
• Assisting with planning and delivering communication and engagement programmes that support key council priorities and environmental outcomes.
• Helping teams communicate complex or sensitive issues clearly and effectively.

We're looking for someone who brings strong strategic communications experience, sound judgement and a collaborative approach to their work. You'll be a confident communicator who can think ahead, provide trusted advice and translate complex issues into clear and engaging messages.

You will also understand the importance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and our partnership with Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku, helping ensure our communication and engagement practices reflect and respect these commitments.

In return, we offer a supportive workplace, flexible working arrangements and the chance to make a meaningful contribution to the future of Murihiku Southland.

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, visit: https://environmentsouthland.recruitmenthub.co.nz/Vacancies & enter ref code: 6880964.

Your cover letter will be an important part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key skills required for this role.

An initial offer of remuneration will be made within the range of $82,530. - $87,115.

Applications close: 19 April 2026

Working at Environment Southland requires all of our staff to uphold the council's Te Tiriti o Waitangi responsibilities as part of their day-to-day role. This may include working in partnership with mana whenua and supporting the commitments our elected councillors have made to Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku through the Charter of Understanding.