Manager Communications and Engagement

Manager, Communications and Engagement

Permanent, Full-time (37.5 hours per week)

Wellington

About the role – Kōrero mō te tūranga

Are you passionate about making a difference in communities both across New Zealand and around the world?

New Zealand Red Cross is on the lookout for a dynamic, experienced Communications and Engagement Manager to lead our national communications and engagement efforts. In this exciting, fast-paced role, you’ll oversee a wide range of communication channels, engaging diverse audiences both internally and externally. From building relationships with the media to crafting impactful communications strategies, to mentoring and supporting a talented team of communications professionals – no two days are the same in this vibrant, results-driven environment.

If you’re ready to take on this rewarding challenge and lead a team with purpose, we’d love to hear from you!

Be a part of the largest global humanitarian movement – consider joining the team at New Zealand Red Cross – ‘we’re here for humanity’.

In this role you will:

• Lead New Zealand Red Cross’s communications and engagement activities by overseeing the development and delivery of effective communications plans and content to achieve business objectives and drive continuous improvement across all communication channels and activities.
• Provide strategic communications and engagement leadership and advice, offering expert guidance to the Director, senior leadership, and teams across the organisation,
• Oversee third-party service provider contracts, ensuring value for money and performance, while managing associated budgets for communications and engagement activities.
• Provide clear, supportive leadership to the team, fostering growth, ensuring skill development, and managing work allocation to enhance performance and efficiency.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, advising on resource allocation and future planning, and ensuring the team’s readiness for emergency responses.
• Cultivate an inclusive team culture by contribute to creating an inclusive and collaborative organisational culture, monitoring team performance, and ensuring effective evaluation systems are in place.

Who are we looking for? – Mā‎ wai te mahi nei?

To be successful you will have:

• Hold a tertiary qualification in a relevant discipline or have equivalent experience in a business setting
• In-depth understanding of communications channels, content development, stakeholder engagement, media relations, and public relations.
• Proven experience in leading and developing teams, especially diverse and remote teams, with a focus on driving performance and growth.
• Experience in leading the strategic development and delivery of communications plans, providing strategic advice to leadership, managing internal and external stakeholder relationships, and driving continuous improvement.
• Strong financial skills with the ability to manage budgets and deliver cost-effective communications strategies.
• Demonstrated cultural competency, particularly in Te Ao Māori, and strong emotional intelligence for building and managing diverse relationships.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to think strategically, manage risks and opportunities, and work both independently and collaboratively.

About New Zealand Red Cross

New Zealand Red Cross is part of the world's largest humanitarian network, with over 13,000 members and employees dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable people by mobilising the power of humanity and increasing community resilience.

Guided by our Fundamental Principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality, we support people in times of need and help strengthen their resilience.

We are committed to having an accessible, diverse, inclusive, and barrier-free work environment where everyone can reach their full potential. We encourage all qualified persons who share our values and want to contribute to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace to apply.

Why work with us?

At New Zealand Red Cross, you’ll join a passionate and diverse team that values your contributions and shares your commitment to making a difference.

We are committed to represent the communities we serve, increasing diversity throughout our people and leadership, and creating a flexible and healthy work environment. Many roles offer flexible virtual/hybrid options to help our employees balance their personal and professional priorities.

Our benefits include:

• Five weeks annual leave
• Career development opportunities
• Annual flu vaccinations
• Discounts on Southern Cross health insurance

We also encourage employee networks, including Takatāpui and Rainbow Network, Rōpū Hāpai Māori and the Sustainability Network, to foster connection and collaboration across our diverse workforce.

Click below to download the job description and to apply for this position please click the 'Apply Now' button to be taken to the New Zealand Red Cross Careers page. If you are already viewing this via the New Zealand Red Cross Careers page, please click the active job description link below.

Please submit your application online, as we’re unable to accept direct applications. Your application must include the following documentation:

• A recent copy of CV/Resume

• Cover Letter

• Passport

• Legal Right to Work In New Zealand

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this job. Applications close at 05:00 pm on 03/07/2026

If you wish to discuss this opportunity or for further information, please contact Rowan Worner at rowan.worner@redcross.org.nz

Note: We reserve the right to close applications before the closing date, so please register your interest early.

Click here for the Job Description