Sustainability Communications and Engagement Advisor - 6 month fixed term - part-time

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading University. With over 6,000 academic and professional staff supporting over 46,000 students, we are one of NZ’s largest employers.  We have six academic faculties and 13 service divisions creating a diverse, dynamic and complex organisational culture that demands excellence.

The University of Auckland creates globally transformative impacts through our distinctive strengths in world leading research, scholarship, teaching and collaborative partnerships, inspired by our unique position in Aotearoa New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific. 

Our mission and values place a strong emphasis on both our student body and our scholarly community, and we work with both community and enterprise to advance the well-being of the peoples of Auckland and New Zealand, with a clear commitment to pursuing sustainability.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking a dynamic and motivated Sustainability Communications and Engagement Advisor for a 6-month fixed term. This pivotal role will sit within the University’s Sustainability Hub, while working closely with the Central Communications Team. The position plays a key role in supporting and advancing the University’s sustainability goals across education, research, operations, and partnerships.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to: 

• Develop and deliver clear, creative, and impactful communications that disseminate and promote the University’s sustainability-related initiatives, successes, and events.
• Collaborate with the Central Communications Team to align messaging and maximise audience reach and impact.
• Identify, write, and edit stories about important sustainability initiatives, campaigns, and engagement opportunities across the University that showcase sustainability in action.
• Coordinate with internal teams and academic departments to gather information and translate technical content into engaging narratives for diverse audiences.
• Utilise a mix of communication tools and channels—including digital platforms, social media, internal newsletters, websites, and print materials—to drive awareness and action.
• Support the planning, promotion, and coverage of sustainability-related events and campaigns, including content creation before, during, and after events.
• Champion sustainability messages in all communications, ensuring alignment with the University's values and sustainability strategy.

This is a part-time (18.75 hours/ week), 6-month fixed term position

Remuneration range is $72,000– $84,709 per annum, dependent on skills and experience (pro-rated)

More information about this role is available in the Position Description

He kōrero mōu | About you

We’re looking for someone who is passionate about sustainability, skilled in communication and familiar with the Sustainable Development Goals. You’ll bring creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to connect with diverse audiences on complex topics in accessible and inspiring ways.

You will be responsible for identifying, crafting, and sharing compelling sustainability content that informs, engages, and inspires our internal and external audiences—including staff, students, alumni, and partners. Through the use of effective communication channels (print, digital, social media, events, and more), you will help bring to life the University’s sustainability achievements, stories, and ongoing initiatives, ensuring they are accessible, relatable, and aligned with our commitment to a fair, ethical and sustainable future.

Essential Criteria:

• Demonstrated experience in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field—preferably with a focus on sustainability or environmental topics.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills across a variety of formats and platforms.
• Experience creating content for digital channels including websites, newsletters, and social media.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Experience working collaboratively across different teams or departments.
• A commitment to sustainability and an understanding of current issues and discourse in environmental and social responsibility.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and maintains significant computational, laboratory and analytic facilities. Auckland itself is frequently rated as one of the world’s most liveable cities. 

The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

• Flexible employment practices (including working from home, flexible hours)
• Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
• A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave

In addition, we also offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and a number of other discounts on internal and external services. 

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online, by the closing date of 15th June 2025 to be considered. Please include your cover letter and your CV highlighting how you can meet the skills and experiences detailed above.  

Please reach out to Maria Armourdian via  [email protected] for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email. 

** We reserve the right to close applications early if a suitable candidate is found**

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz

The University is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment where everyone can thrive. For further information see Te Ara Tautika | the Equity Policy and visit www.equity.auckland.ac.nz