At the Otago Regional Council (ORC), our mission is protecting, connecting and enhancing Otago's environment, now and for the future - Mou, moku, mo tatou, For you, for me, for us. To be sure we can deliver on our responsibilities, we are evolving as an organisation, and we're not overstating when we say we have some really big targets to reach. We need the right people, in the right roles, to help us to get there.

We think Otago's a pretty special place. It covers a vast area - the third largest local government region in New Zealand. Those who call Otago home enjoy access to mountains, coastal lowlands, dramatic rivers, and wild beaches. Our environment here is part of who we are, and at ORC, we work each day to look after it.

The Opportunity

We are looking for a Senior Communications Advisor to join our ‘NextGen’ Project Team on a fixed term, 12-month part-time (18.75 hours per week) basis, in our busy Dunedin office.

The purpose of this position to develop and implement ORC’s ‘NextGen’ project communications approach to align with both project plans and ORC’s overarching strategic directions and values.

The ‘NextGen’ project will implement a new system and consistent sector wide ways of working to support our Environmental, Regulatory and Customer related teams.

As a Senior Communications Advisor – NextGen Project, you will be responsible for:

• Developing a project communications plan and delivering communications for organisational wide impact
• Developing, improving, and maintaining the ORC’s project communication platforms and practices to streamline our project communication approach
• Providing fit for purpose and best practice communications advice for project customers
• Providing engagement delivery support as required to support the projects change programme

If you enjoy developing engaging content and working collaboratively with a range of stakeholders, then this is the role for you!

About You

Our ideal candidate will have:

• A tertiary qualification in (bachelor level or above) within communications, or relevant discipline
• 5+ years’ experience in a Local Government or iwi organisation
• Proven experience in internal communications or a related field
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities

A full job description can be found here - position description internal communications advisor nextgen - FInal Dec 25 (1).pdf

What we offer

We recognise and celebrate diversity within Team ORC and are committed to providing a work environment that supports inclusion and equal opportunities. We actively encourage applications from anyone who will live our values of MANA- We influence with respect and integrity, TIKA- We do the right thing and do things right and AROHA- We show that that we care.

To support our diverse and capable team, we're pleased to offer enhanced benefits such as:

• Flexible work opportunities
• Life Insurance
• 5 weeks annual leave
• Superannuation
• An annual wellbeing programme
• Competitive remuneration packages
• Development opportunities

How to Apply

If you meet the above criteria, we welcome your application, including your CV and cover letter outlining why you are the person for this role via the Apply button.

Please note. We don't always work to fixed closing dates and may start considering and interviewing candidates as their applications are received, so we encourage you to apply early.

At ORC, we value diversity, and the different strengths people bring. We can provide flexible recruitment options such as virtual interviews, online kōrero, or whānau-inclusive interviews. If you would like to have whānau support with you during your interview, just let us know—we welcome it!

Learn more about who we are — join our online whānau! Follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook to see what life at ORC is like.

All candidates require the right to work in New Zealand.

Applications close: Thursday 8 January 2026

For further information, please contact human.resources@orc.govt.nz