Strategic Relations Manager

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s cultural, events and destination agency. It enriches the cultural life and vibrancy of Auckland with events, experiences and taonga (treasures). Its work connects communities, celebrates identity and grows Auckland’s reputation as a world-class place to live, visit and belong.

This is a full-time, fixed-term opportunity (6-months) we're looking for an experienced Strategic Relations Manager to join our Marketing, Communications & Growth team. This is a senior leadership role focused on shaping and leading Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s strategic relationships, narrative and positioning across key external and internal audiences.

Reporting to the Director, Marketing, Communications & Growth, you’ll lead a team of strategic relations specialists and work closely with senior leaders to build trusted relationships with iwi, central and local government, elected members, national agencies, business and sector partners. You’ll play a critical role in ensuring our strategic story is clear, consistent and compelling, and that our engagement supports whole‑of‑organisation outcomes.

You’ll also provide expert advice on stakeholder engagement, issues management and strategic hosting, helping strengthen Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s reputation, influence and impact.

He kōrero mōū: About you

To succeed in this role, you’ll bring:

• Significant experience in strategic relations, stakeholder engagement, communications or government relations within complex environments
• Proven leadership experience, with the ability to guide and develop high‑performing teams
• Strong political acumen and sound judgement, with confidence operating at a senior level
• Demonstrated ability to shape and communicate strategic narratives to diverse audiences
• Exceptional relationship‑building skills across iwi, government, elected members and external partners
• Proven ability to team cross-functionally to improve strategic relations systems and processes
• Experience advising executives and influencing outcomes in sensitive or high‑profile contexts
• A strong understanding of te Tiriti o Waitangi, tikanga Māori and the role of mana whenua in Tāmaki Makaurau
• A collaborative, resilient and pragmatic approach, with a focus on delivering meaningful outcomes

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

You’ll join a high‑performing, purpose‑driven organisation working at the intersection of culture, place, events and economic development for Auckland.

In return for your mahi, we offer:

• A competitive salary and Auckland Council employee benefits
• Flexible working options and development opportunities
• The opportunity to work closely with senior leaders and influential partners
• Meaningful work that helps shape Auckland’s future and strengthens connections with communities and stakeholders.

Click here to view the position description.

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!
Applications close: 8th March 2026

Ready to help shape strategic relationships and tell the story of Auckland on a national and global stage? Submit your CV and a short cover letter outlining why this role is right for you.

Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.

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