Help shape the future of Education
We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes
Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.
About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga
This is a permanent full-time position based in Wellington, suited to highly experienced media professionals who thrive in a fast-paced, high-profile environment.
As Principal Media Advisor, you'll play a key role in protecting and enhancing the Ministry's reputation.
Reporting to the Director of Communications and Records, you'll lead the development and delivery of media responses, provide expert advice to senior leaders, and manage complex and high-profile media issues. You'll operate at the heart of the organisation, influencing how the Ministry responds to emerging issues, engages with media, and communicates with the public. Along with being part of our media after-hours roster, this is a role where no two days are the same. One day you could be briefing senior leaders, the next, developing media approaches for education initiatives or supporting regional teams with their issues.
Salary range: $120,171 - $145,560 per annum + KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.
For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description herePrincipal Media Advisor
About you | Mōhou ake
We're looking for an experienced media professional who can confidently operate in a complex public sector environment. You'll bring strong media knowledge, sound judgement, and the ability to craft compelling messages that resonate with diverse audiences. You’ll enjoy building trusted relationships, thrive under pressure, and are passionate about delivering high-quality advice that supports organisational goals.
Your skillset will include:
- Significant experience developing and implementing media approaches in complex environments.
- Proven success building and maintaining effective relationships with senior leaders, journalists, media outlets, and Ministerial offices.
- Strong political awareness and understanding of government processes, with the ability to navigate ambiguity and sensitive issues.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including preparing media statements, responses and briefing materials.
- Expertise in translating complex information into clear, compelling and audience-focused messaging.
- The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.
- You will also contribute:
- Experience managing media enquiries, reputation risks and crisis communications with professionalism and sound judgement.
- A strong focus on using insights, research and data to inform communication approaches and drive continuous improvement.
- The ability to influence, coach and support others while contributing to a collaborative, high-performing team culture.
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver quality outcomes under tight deadlines.
Joining our team means being part of a collaborative and purpose-driven environment where your expertise will be valued, your advice will influence key decisions, and your work will contribute to shaping positive outcomes for education.
About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake
Te Pou Rangatōpū | Corporate has two key roles which operate together:
- keeping the Ministry safe by delivering essential Ministry-wide statutory and corporate functions and
- delivering improvements to how the Ministry works, so we can achieve our priorities and support the Ministry to deliver the current Government’s priorities.
As part of the Ministry’s corporate business unit, the Communications and Records Group is responsible for media management, internal communications and major event communications. They also oversee content and channels strategies, print production services and manage the Ministry’s visual identity management. The Group ensures record keeping is consistent with Public Records Act Audit findings and aligns with the recommendations from the Royal Commission – Abuse in Care and reflect the principles of the Care Records Framework.
Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?
If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.
For further information, please contact Amanda Broatch, General Manager, Communications, Engagement and Ministerials at Amanda.Broatch@education.govt.nz
Applications close Midnight Tuesday 3 November 2026.
We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.
