Team Leader Communications & Engagement

Team Leader Communications & Engagement
Buller District Council Westport, New Zealand
Permanent | Full Time | 32 Hours per week

Join the Buller District Council Team! | Hono atu ki te roopu Kaunihera a rohe o Buller!
Help shape how our community connects with Council. As our Team Leader Communications and Engagement, you’ll guide a high‑performing team, deliver clear and effective communications, and ensure our engagement practices reflect the needs and voices of the Buller community.

Who are we? | Ko wai tatou?
At Buller District Council, we are a dedicated, customer-focused team committed to maintaining the beauty of our region - from Karamea to Punakaiki and inland to the environs of Reefton. This is your unique opportunity to step into the wilderness and make a tangible difference in the Buller District. If you possess the expertise and a proactive attitude to deliver exceptional service to our community, we’d love to hear from you! 

Why Join Us? | He aha te hono mai ki a mātau?

Thrive in a values-driven workplace that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and professional development through various learning opportunities, benefits, and recognition.

• Shape the future of Buller – lead strategic growth and sustainable development


• Work in a scenic district with a great lifestyle balance.


• Be part of a collaborative and supportive team with a high focus on wellbeing


• Southern Cross Health Insurance

What Will You Do? | Ka aha koe?
This role is ideal for a confident communicator and people‑leader who thrives in a dynamic environment and is passionate about strengthening community relationships.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Provide day‑to‑day leadership, coaching, and performance management for the Communications and Engagement team


• Oversee media engagement, including supporting staff , and responding to enquiries


• Advocate for staff wellbeing, manage workloads, and complete annual PPDP and KPI reviews


• Support communication budget management and ensure responsible use of resources


• Prioritise and allocate work to ensure deadlines and business needs are met


• Review and approve communications content to ensure quality and consistency


• Ensure all statutory requirements for public consultations, governance advertising, and transparency are met


• Deliver clear, accurate, and timely communications across digital, print, media, and face‑to‑face channels


• Manage timelines and workflows to ensure aligned, on‑time delivery


• Maintain and improve communication processes, systems, and structures


• Lead development of future‑focused communication and engagement technologies


• Support the development and review of engagement strategies, communication plans, and consultation materials

Who Are You? | Ko wai koe?
We are looking for someone with:

Essential:

• Proven experience in communications, engagement, media, or a public‑facing role


• Strong experience preparing high‑quality written communications for diverse audiences


• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with stakeholders, community groups, and iwi


• At least 3 years’ experience leading or supervising staff, projects, or workflows


• Excellent verbal communication skills, able to clearly articulate ideas and needs


• Tertiary qualification in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Management, or a related field


• Demonstrated communications expertise and capability working with external stakeholders

Desirable:

• Experience in Local Government or a community‑focused organisation


• Experience managing budgets


• Experience responding to sensitive or high‑profile issues


• Graphic design or Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign) experience


• Understanding of Te ao Māori and/or Te Reo


• Additional qualifications in communications, journalism, management, public participation, media, or graphic design

If you're ready to make a significant impact and work in a supportive, forward-thinking environment, we’d love to hear from you!

Please find the position description here: https://tinyurl.com/46caddrv 

All applications are required to be accompanied by a cover letter and a copy of your current Curriculum Vitae.
Any enquiries about this role please email: [email protected]

Applications close: 3PM, Friday 19th of June 2026