About the Role
Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, you will shape, develop, and deliver internal and external communications strategies and plans for the New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA) that have real impact. Working closely with the Communications Coordinator, you’ll oversee day-to-day communications and drive engagement across all channels – informing, inspiring, and connecting both the profession and the NZVA.
Your proactive and collaborative approach will also see you leading responses during emergencies or crises, helping safeguard and support the veterinary community. Through your work, you’ll bring our vision to life across communications channels, building confidence, engagement and trust in what we do.
This role offers a mix of external and internal communications, combining both strategic and operational responsibilities. It’s an opportunity to work laterally and vertically, while also getting hands-on experience. You will thrive in dynamic, forward-thinking environments where positive change is the norm and where you’re encouraged to try new approaches, learn, and continuously improve.
If you’re keen to join a dedicated and passionate team that represents one of New Zealand’s most trusted professions, we encourage you to submit your application today.
What you’ll do
- Contribute to the development and implementation of the NZVA’s communications and digital strategies and plans
- Provide expert communications advice to management, the NZVA Board, and special interest branches
- Lead, guide and support the Communications Coordinator
- Develop messaging and communications for key projects that support members’ priorities such as workforce sustainability, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), climate care programme, and continued professional development (CPD), etc
- Write, edit, and produce clear, engaging communications, ensuring timely delivery to NZVA’s key stakeholders
- Share news stories and member updates highlighting the NZVA’s advocacy work
- Monitor analytics from digital channels to ensure communications are effective and relevant
- Work alongside the external media agency to develop key messages and media response
- Work with the IT Coordinator to monitor functionality of the website, and develop clear processes for reviewing, updating and maintaining website content
- Support the wider CEO and wider NZVA team as required.
What we’re looking for
- Proven experience in communications (e.g. corporate communications, social media marketing, member engagement) or a related field
- Experience in NGO membership services or customer/client-focused environments (highly advantageous)
- Excellent writing skills, with experience creating customer-focused content across multiple audiences and channels (e.g. web, social media, newsletters, articles, blogs)
- Strong digital skills, with knowledge of databases, websites, and search engine optimisation (SEO)
- Proven strategic thinking with the ability to develop and implement communications plans
- Strong attention to detail, time/project management skills, and ability to meet deadlines
- Exceptional relationship management skills with both internal and external stakeholders
- Ability to produce high quality policy work and provide peer support to colleagues
- A positive source of energy and confident decision-maker, comfortable working both independently and collaboratively
- Driven, motivated, and delivery-focused, with the ability to maintain a big-picture perspective
- Friendly and responsive, with empathy and the ability to relate to all NZVA members
- Technologically savvy, with proficiency across common IT platforms, including MS Office Suite, social media, CRM databases (Gecco, Silverstripe), InDesign, SharePoint, and other cloud-based applications.
Why join NZVA?
The New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA) is the only membership association representing New Zealand veterinarians. They are committed to building exceptional professional lives for veterinarians by providing support, resources, leadership and advocacy.
This is a permanent, full-time role (40 hours per week) based on Victoria St, Wellington CBD.
NZVA offers a wide range of staff benefits, including free flu vaccinations, EAP support, and flexible working arrangements, with most staff working up to two days from home. You’ll also enjoy NZVA member benefits, including discounts on fuel and animal products, professional development opportunities, and the added perk of bringing your pets to work!
How to Apply
Apply via SEEK here and attention your CV and a cover letter to Ngan Nguyen by Sunday 5 October 2025.
A position description is available on our website at mclaren.co.nz or call us on 04 499 1069.
Once applications have closed, we will commence the shortlisting process, which can take up to two weeks. We will be in touch with you regarding your application during this time.
View the position description by copying this link into your browser: https://mclaren.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/NZVA-PD-Comms-Advisor-18.9.2025.pdf
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