"Communications Adviser"

Who we are | Ko wai mātou

Ranked within the top 1% of universities in the world, the University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka has a strong teaching and research tradition and a well-established national and international reputation. We recognise that staff are the key to our success.

The Communications Advisory Service is part of the University’s Communications Service. Our members are highly experienced communicators from a range of backgrounds with a strong and positive team culture. We’re always busy, telling great stories and supporting our inspiring staff and students as they learn, teach and research.

Our purpose is to connect the University, internally and externally. We use a range of tools and channels to provide information to our audiences which enhance and protect the University’s reputation, raise its profile, and attract quality students and external funding.

The role | Te mahi

Reporting to the Manager Communications Advisory Service, based within a client portfolio, Communications Advisers provide expert advice and support to portfolio leaders that strengthen the University’s positive public profile and outstanding reputation, while creating and delivering content for internal and external audiences.

This position serves the Operations Group, which has four divisions and four offices working together to support students and staff across our campuses. The Operations Group covers a huge range of activities including student residential colleges, property and campus development, health, safety and wellbeing, information technology services, risk and compliance, divisional services and administration, sustainability, transformation and improvement, enterprise project management and more!

The Operations portfolio is rewarding due to the broad nature of the Group and its mahi.

Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

We are looking for an experienced communications professional, with demonstrated experience in:

• Public relations, business/project communications, and or journalism roles.
• Crafting and producing high quality communications for a range of purposes.
• Providing advice and support to senior leaders and managers

You will be an articulate and engaging communicator, with a strong customer service orientation and sense of team spirit.

Further details | Pūroko

This is a full time (37.5 hours), permanent position located in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.
The appointment range for this role is $80,749 to $85,649. Top of Range $100,776.

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.

We offer competitive salary, 5 weeks’ annual leave, a 6.75% superannuation scheme, and the ability to achieve real work/life balance.

For further information, or to discuss the role in confidence – please contact Jamie Shaw, Manager Communications Advisory Service.

Application | Tono

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter) please click the apply button below. Applications quoting reference number 2600105 will close on Sunday, 1 February 2026.

Applications may be reviewed as they are received. The University reserves the right to close this vacancy at any time.

Additional Information

Contact: Jamie Shaw

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email

Location: About Dunedin

Posted: 14/01/2026