Communications Lead

PUBLIC HEALTH COMMUNICATION CENTRE
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO, WELLINGTON
About our team/ Mō te tīma
The Public Health Communication Centre (PHCC) is a newly formed group at the University of Otago, Wellington. The PHCC is embedded in a very dynamic University Department committed to high scientific standards, novel research, and the generation of policy-relevant evidence.
It has an ambitious goal to use communication strategies to support transformative change in the health, equity, and environmental sustainability of Aotearoa NZ.
The Centre is principled and very strategic in the issues it focusses on and how it addresses Treaty of Waitangi obligations. It will be highly innovative and effective based on a deep understanding of the policy making process and media environment.
The PHCC has a supportive work environment that is enjoyable, stimulating, and which provides opportunities for further training and personal development.
The role/Te mahi
The Communications Lead works with other staff of the PHCC to communicate information about evidence-based responses to current and future public health issues affecting New Zealanders to the public, to the health sector and to policy-makers. Public health issues will include: the need to improve underlying health determinants and equity; raising public awareness about opportunities for health improvement; enhancing environmental quality and sustainability (especially as they relate to health); and highlighting the importance of the organised efforts of society to protect and promote population health for all New Zealanders.  The Communications Lead understands and engages with NZ Media to optimise the effectiveness of the Centre.
If you are an experienced journalist or have experience in working in media relations; have an interest in science communication; and want to be part of a dynamic team communicating information about current and future public health issues to New Zealanders; then this is the job for you. As a new Centre, you will be part of an innovative team committed to supporting transformative change in the health and environmental sustainability of Aotearoa NZ.
Your skills and experience/Kā pūkeka me kā wheako
The ideal candidate will have:
•    A range of skills and experience in journalism, media relations, science writing and dissemination.
•    A University degree and/or postgraduate training in journalism is essential.
•    A good understanding of and commitment to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and to equal opportunity and practical understanding of tikanga Māori in the health system.
•    Experience with public health research and/or Tertiary sector work experience is desirable.
 

Further details/Pūroko
This is a full-time permanent position, start date negotiable. The remuneration will be commensurate with the skills and experience of a successful candidate.
The University is also hiring in the follow positions to join the centre:

Senior Research Fellow  2102347
Science Lead  2102271

Specific enquiries may be directed to Fiona Taylor via the contact details below.
Application/Tono
To submit your application (including cover letter and cv), please click the apply button below. Applications quoting reference number 2102271 will close on Thursday 16 December 2021.
Additional Information

Contact: Fiona Taylor     Tel: 04 918 5075

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website

Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email

Location:About Wellington

Primary Location
 NZL-NI-Wellington
Employment Status
 Permanent 
Salary Level and Range The University is offering a remuneration level commensurate with the responsibilities of the position.
Organisation
 Public Health
Job Function
 Marketing and Communications Management