Senior Communications & Customer Specialist

We are looking for a senior communications and customer experience specialist to lead recovery communications for Auckland Emergency Management.  

You’ll be responsible for preparing for recovery before the next event and stepping up when it happens. You’ll help shape how Aucklanders understand their options, access support, and navigate council systems after an emergency. The work is fast-moving, high profile and often under pressure. It requires sound judgement, clarity, and empathy in equal measure. 

He angitūtanga: The opportunity 

You will: 

• Lead recovery communications planning, messaging and customer experience design 
• Deliver clear, practical public information that supports impacted Aucklanders 
• Embed lessons from the 2023 severe weather events into recovery systems and communications 
• Coordinate recovery-related media, internal communications and cross-council messaging 
• Provide customer insights to improve recovery pathways and decision-making 
• Act as the subject matter expert for recovery communications during events 
• You’ll work closely with operational teams, senior leaders, elected members and partner agencies.  

To view a copy of the position description, click here

He kōrero mōu: About you 

You’re an experienced communications professional who can operate confidently in complex public environments. You understand crisis and issues management, and you know how to communicate clearly when information is incomplete and emotions are high. 

You bring: 

• Proven experience in planning and delivering strategic communications during times of crisis  
• Strong customer-centred process design and delivery experience 
• Confidence working with senior leaders, elected members and media 
• Proven ability to build strong relationships and coordinate communications across multiple stakeholders  
• The ability to operate effectively within an emergency management environment  

Most importantly, you care about outcomes for Aucklanders. You can balance empathy with pragmatism, and you’re comfortable taking ownership in demanding situations. If you’re motivated by meaningful public impact and ready to work at pace, we’d like to hear from you. 

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every requirement listed. What matters most is your ability to contribute to a purpose-driven environment where diverse experiences are valued. We know that transferable skills can come from experience gained from outside of work.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

Tono Mai: Apply Now!

Application close date: monday 16th March 2026

Salary range: $102 - $120k

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer. We serve the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds - regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, educational background, or religious beliefs. We also welcome applications from our Rainbow communities as well as disabled and neurodivergent people. We are committed to making our hiring process accessible to everyone. If you require any support or adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.