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.

We’re looking for an experienced Strategic Relations Manager to join our Marketing, Communications and Growth team. This is a senior leadership position focused on shaping and leading Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s strategic narrative and positioning with key external and internal audiences.

Reporting to the Director, Marketing, Communications and Growth, you’ll lead a team of strategic relations and internal communications specialists and work closely with senior leaders including the CE’s Office, Executive Leadership Team and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Board to build trusted relationships with staff, central and local government, including elected members, iwi, national agencies, business and sector partners.

Along with other communications team members, you’ll play a critical role in ensuring our strategic story is clear, consistent and compelling, and that our strategic relations and engagement support whole of organisation outcomes.

You’ll also provide expert advice on internal communications, stakeholder engagement, issues management and leveraging strategic hosting opportunities, 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, internal and external 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 narrative and positioning to diverse audiences
• Exceptional relationship building skills across staff, elected members, government, iwi 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 aligned to the strategic narrative and priorities.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

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

In return for your mahi, we offer:

• A competitive salary and 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: 19th April 2026
Band I
Permanent, Full-Time Opportunity

Ready to help shape the organisation’s strategic narrative and positioning, build 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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