BusinessNZ is New Zealand’s leading business advocacy organisation, representing thousands of employers and industry groups across the country. At a time of heightened national focus on economic direction, regulatory settings and an election year, BusinessNZ’s role as “The Voice of Business” is more important than ever. To support this next phase, the organisation is seeking a Director of Communications to lead the BusinessNZ comms team.
This senior role will shape and implement a refreshed communications strategy, ensuring BusinessNZ is positioned proactively across media, government and the wider business community. Working closely with policy experts and senior leaders, the Director will translate complex issues into clear, compelling commentary and ensure the organisation’s insights and advocacy reach key audiences. They will strengthen BusinessNZ’s voice through op-eds, speeches, thought leadership, newsletters, digital content and rapid media responses, building greater influence across all channels.
This is a hands-on leadership role requiring sharp political awareness, strong news judgement and the ability to engage comfortably with journalists, editors, Ministers, officials and business leaders. The ideal candidate will bring a background in journalism, ministerial communications, corporate affairs or a similar fast-paced, issues-rich environment, supported by strong writing and research capability, strategic insight and the ability to operate confidently at both strategic and operational levels. An enquiring mind, a love of language and a genuine interest in policy and business will be essential.
This is a unique opportunity to help shape national conversations, amplify the voice of New Zealand business and play a part in advocating for a stronger New Zealand economy.
The Director of Communications must be based in BusinessNZ’s office in central Wellington.
For more information or to apply, please contact Anastasia Gyson at Hobson Leavy Executive Search: Anastasia.gyson@hobsonleavy.com
Applications close at 5pm, 22nd February 2026
