Zero Invasive Predators (ZIP) is a not-for-profit organisation pioneering tools, techniques and resources to enable Predator Free New Zealand.
Established by the NEXT Foundation and Department of Conservation in 2015, ZIP currently operates large scale eradication campaigns across South Westland, Te Manahuna/Upper Mackenzie, Aoraki Mount Cook and Rakiura, proving how possums, rats and stoats can be removed and kept out for good.
About the Role
Reporting to the Chief of Corporate Services, you’ll set and deliver an integrated marketing, communications and stakeholder engagement strategy that clearly shares ZIP’s mission, strategy and innovation, and on‑the‑ground impact.
You’ll be a connector—working with internal project teams, iwi and hapū partners, funders, government agencies, media and other key collaborators to build reputation, secure support and foster collaboration toward our predator free projects. Regular travel to project sites is expected to ground stories in real experience.
Duties
- Develop and implement ZIP’s integrated marketing and communications strategy
- Lead brand stewardship across channels; ensure consistent, compelling narratives
- Plan and deliver campaigns that grow awareness, funding and partnerships
- Manage media relations—proactive storytelling, releases, interviews and issues
- Grow digital presence (web, social) showcasing field activity and innovation
- Provide internal communications that align and inform ZIP kaimahi
- Coordinate stakeholder updates for iwi/hapū, DOC, funders, NGOs, communities and partners
- Produce and oversee high-quality written, visual and video content
- Prepare presentations, briefings and reports for senior engagement
- Monitor risks and advise the CE/ELT on issues and crisis communications
- Lead and mentor the Mar/Comm team and manage suppliers and budgets
- Degree (or equivalent experience) in marketing/communications/PR
- 10+ years’ experience across brand, media and digital—ideally conservation, science or NFP
- Proven stakeholder engagement and media relations track record
- Ability to translate complex science/technical work into accessible stories
- Strong planning, project management and supplier leadership
- Experience engaging with iwi/Māori stakeholders and Te Tiriti principles
- Confident, adaptable, creative; thrives in dynamic field-based contexts
ZIP is a caring, connected, empowering and innovative workplace. They prioritise wellbeing, health and safety, open communication and shared ownership.
Benefits
- Purpose: tangible national impact toward Predator Free Aotearoa
- Variety: work across spectacular, remote project locations
- Collaboration: partner with iwi/hapū, DOC, funders and science leaders
- Growth: scope to shape strategy, team and storytelling
- Flexibility: Wellington-based with regular field travel
Click APPLY to submit your CV and cover letter. All applicants must be eligible to work in New Zealand.
For a confidential discussion, contact Iain MacGibbon at Farrow Jamieson on +64 9 915 9144.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received and will close in 4 weeks (or earlier if filled).
