Company Description
Waipapa Taumata Rau | 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 multidisciplinary organisation and culture. Our world-leading researchers contribute to our vibrant and innovative research portfolio, leading our impact rankings. We host a number of national research networks with collaborations that span across the country and beyond.
Mō tō mātou rōpū | About the team
The Communications Office, part of the wider Communications and Engagement Division, is a dynamic and close-knit team working in the four broad areas of media engagement, staff communications, research communications and corporate communications. Our primary role is to build and protect the reputation of the University and its people by:
- Showcasing achievements, successes and positive impact on the communities we serve.
- Fostering the University’s role as ‘critic and conscience of society’ through debate, opinion and thought leadership on issues that are relevant to society.
- Ensuring what is said about the University in the wider world is fair, balanced and accurate.
- Managing issues and crisis communications proactively and sensitively.
- Driving internal communications to ensure staff and other internal stakeholders are informed and engaged.
Job Description
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
We are looking for an experienced journalist to join the media team as a Media Adviser in the Communications Office on a full-time (37.5 hours pw), fixed-term basis.
Your job will be to work closely with staff and students to ensure we capture and share academic, professional, and research achievements throughout New Zealand. You will be responsible for increasing the University’s profile in the news media, among key audiences and in the community at large through a variety of communication channels including print, digital, media relations and social networks. Our media team works across the University and its faculties to identify and share stories through traditional and new media channels, and to enhance its reputation. With specific responsibilities you’ll also work as part of the team and be prepared to step in to assist where required.
Social media and amplifying our diverse stories, media monitoring, and providing media guidance are all part of this role. Your contribution will support our strategic plan Taumata Teitei and help enhance the reputation of the University of Auckland.
This role is a 10-month, fixed-term contract covering maternity leave. The salary range for this role is $83,300 - $102,900, depending on experience and qualifications.
For a detailed description of the key tasks and responsibilities, please see the Position Description.
Qualifications
He kōrero mōu | About you
This particular portfolio looks after the Faculty of Engineering and Design.
You’ll need your professional media/writing/journalism skills, and to be a great communicator and networker. Largely self-directed – in line with the needs of the faculty and the priorities of the Communications Office and University – it will be up to you to meet deadlines and prioritise work.
To be successful in this role, you will:
- Ideally have a degree in communications, journalism, public relations, media studies or related discipline
- Be an experienced communications professional (likely a former journalist)
- A high level of oral and written communication, interpersonal, negotiation, analytical and problem-solving skills.
- A sound knowledge of media operations with contacts across TV, print, radio and online; experience in liaising with and pitching to the media
- A good eye for a great story
- A solid understanding of traditional and social media channels
- A solid understanding of equity issues
Additional Information
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)
- 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 should be submitted online, before the closing date of 7 April 2025 and include an up-to-date CV and cover letter outlining what strengths you will bring to this role.
If you have any questions about this role, please email Denise Montgomery via; denise.montgomery@auckland.ac.nz
Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.
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
