At the Otago Regional Council (ORC), our mission is protecting, connecting and enhancing Otago's environment, now and for the future – Mōu, mōku, mō tātou, 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 Manager Communications and Marketing to lead our Communications and Marketing team on a permanent, full time (37.5 hours per week) basis, in our busy Dunedin or Alexandra or Queenstown office.

The purpose of this position is to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of ORC’s communications, media, marketing and brand functions.

As a Manager Communications and Marketing, you will be responsible for:

• Setting the direction for the team, consistent with the annual plan, long term plan and organisational objectives
• Leading the development and execution of integrated communication plans, strategies, campaigns and assets to support ORC’s work programme
• Fostering communications approaches to support technical teams, such as science, civil defence, emergency management and public transport
• Providing advice to elected members, ELT, managers regarding media engagements

If you enjoy leading a team and having an impact, then this is the role for you!

About You

Our ideal candidate will have:

• A bachelor’s qualification or equivalent in marketing, communication or relevant field or relevant journalism qualification
• At least 5 years’ experience in a relevant leadership position
• At least 10 years’ experience in a communications, marketing or related advisory role
• Demonstrated experience in building a high performing team in a complex environment
• Highly skilled in negotiating, advocacy and providing strategic advice to senior leaders

A full job description can be found here – ORC Position Description - Manager Comms and Marketing Sep 2026 (1).docx

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! Check out of website, Current ORC job opportunities | Otago Regional Council to see what life at ORC is like.

All candidates require the right to work in New Zealand.

Applications close: Monday 12 October 2026

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