Communications and Partnerships Manager

• Substantial leadership role
• Drive impactful change
• Invercargill based

 Are you a seasoned communications and engagement leader ready to take the reins of a dynamic, multi-disciplinary team? Environment Southland is seeking a Communications and Partnerships Manager to lead a team of 12 professionals — including education specialists, digital and channels advisors, media and communications professionals, and engagement experts — in delivering strategic communications that connect, inform, and inspire.
 
In partnership with its community, Environment Southland (Regional Council) is responsible for the sustainable management of Southland’s natural resources – land, water, air and coast. Council operates in a large geographical region from Stewart Island to Fiordland. The organisation has been going through realignment that aims to refresh how they deliver collaboratively with their partners in the community and advance their integrated catchment management approach.
 
This is a high-profile leadership role with real scope:

• Lead a substantial team across internal and external communications, media, education, and outreach
• Drive strategic partnerships that support environmental outcomes across Southland
• Deliver with confidence— this is a role that will deliver a wide range of communications, information, education resources and programmes.

 The role requires strong communications and engagement expertise alongside steady leadership, emotional intelligence, and stakeholder savvy. You’ll be working at the heart of a purpose-driven organisation, helping shape how Environment Southland engages with communities, iwi, government, and the media. Your ability to navigate sensitive dynamics, build trust, and lead with clarity will be key to your success.
 
What you’ll bring

• Proven experience in leading communications and engagement teams
• Expertise across internal comms, media liaison, and strategic partnerships
• Confidence, resilience, and a collaborative leadership style
• A commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and working alongside tangata whenua

The ideal candidate will most likely have worked in local Government or similar environments and be politically astute. They will have a deep understanding of front-line, boots on the ground engagement and a broad view of stakeholders and partnership including neighbouring councils, central Government, commercial industry groups and regional communities.
Why this role?
 
Because it’s more than a job — it’s a chance to lead with purpose, influence meaningful change, and be part of a team that’s passionate about Southland’s environment and communities.
 
If that sounds like you and you’re Invercargill based or prepared to relocate, we’d love to hear from you.
 
APPLICATIONS CLOSE:  Monday 18 August 2025
APPLY OR VIEW THE POSITION DESCRIPTION:  www.jacksonstone.co.nz
REFERENCE:  BH-11351
 
FURTHER ENQUIRIES: Nikki Franklin on 027 287 9390 or Emma Dewson on 027 218 4129