Communications & Stakeholder Engagement Manager - New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine

Job Description:

Communications & Stakeholder Engagement Manager - New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine

• Calling all senior comms and engagement professionals
• Rare chance to work on a nationally significant project – NZ’s first graduate medical school
• Fixed term for two years, based in Hamilton

We are on the hunt for a Communications & Stakeholder Engagement Manager to join the University of Waikato Communications team on a 24-month fixed term, to support the establishment of the New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine (NZGSM).

Opening in 2028, the NZGSM is the country's first graduate-entry medical school. It will introduce a proven international model of medical education designed to help address the chronic shortage of doctors in primary and community care in New Zealand.

This is a rare chance to be part of a significant and complex project that will have generational impact for New Zealand. Forming part of the Communications team while also being embedded in Te Wānanga Waiora – Division of Health, you will work closely with NZGSM leaders to develop, coordinate and advise on messaging for diverse audience groups and effectively engage across multiple critical stakeholder environments.

We are an organisation that is for the people and this role will help us deliver on this mission through all levels of the NZGSM programme. The work is varied, challenging and rewarding – join us to be part of the team establishing this new and innovative medical school, alongside a passionate Communications team and inspiring line up of health leaders.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Senior communications experience coupled with a strong background in relationship management/engagement.
• Experience leading communication and engagement work programmes for projects that are nationally significant.
• Outstanding networking and relationship management experience across complex stakeholder groups.
• A strong risk radar and political nous.
• Ideally worked in either a public sector, health or tertiary environment.

For more information about the role, please see the position description.

This is a full-time role of 37.5 hours a week based at our Hamilton campus and is a fixed term position for 24 months.

To enquire about the role, please contact Jess Tiley, Director of Communications: jess.tiley@waikato.ac.nz.

Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?

The Communications team protects and builds the reputation of the University amongst its diverse stakeholder groups and ensures alignment with the University’s strategic direction. The team oversee all communication activities to support the NZGSM with its internal and external audiences. This role has a strong link to Te Wānanga Waiora - Division of Health, and will work closely with the divisional senior leadership team.

He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?

We want you to be part of our success! Our university stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.

The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply.

Ko te Tangata – For the People

The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.

E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.

Applications close: May 6, 2026

Requisition Number 1003585