Relationship and Policy Advisor - Manaaki Whenua

Relationship and Policy Advisor

We are looking for an enthusiastic multitasker who is skilled in creating, building and strengthening relationships with internal and external stakeholders for science projects from inception to delivery.

About the opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity to support our delivery of science to a wide audience of stakeholders with an emphasis on government relationships. This role supports large strategic projects and organisational strategy that requires significant stakeholder and partner interaction. You will be involved in gathering information to inform project strategy, policy insights and submissions, funding and outputs, establishing working groups, organising workshops and other discussions for our researchers.

You will work with portfolio leaders, research priority area leaders and researchers connecting and supporting the development of projects to maximise knowledge pathways and knowledge impact. You will ensure our stakeholders are informed and engaged across multiple years. You will also have a close working relationship with our Kaitūhonohono and Kaihautū ensuring that we are meeting our Te Tiriti requirements. Key goals are to explore and define stakeholder needs to improve project design to meet beneficial outcomes and to ensure we are engaged on relevant policy shifts and change insights to help create impact for Aotearoa.

This position is permanent, full-time, reports to General Manager Science and Knowledge Translation and is based at our Wellington site. Other Manaaki Whenua sites may be considered.

About you

You will possess a tertiary qualification in Science or Humanities and have several years' experience in science and science-policy roles with an understanding of investigator and mission-led science. You will have demonstrated experience in building and maintaining positive stakeholder relationships and effective networks within organisations. You will also be able to demonstrate strong commercial acumen, impact trough knowledge and have an aptitude for analysing, summarising and presenting information.

Why Manaaki Whenua

Our land, our future - this is the essence of why Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research exists. At Manaaki Whenua we undertake research that focuses on preserving New Zealand's rich biodiversity, improving biosecurity, and protecting the health of the land, fresh water and soil resources we need for a prosperous future. We recognise the importance of partnerships, the special role of Māori, and the need to ensure that all New Zealanders have the knowledge, understanding, and tools to truly live in harmony with our precious environment. We are recognised nationally and internationally for the quality of our research and work with a wide range of organisations within New Zealand and globally.

Manaaki Whenua embraces diversity and is committed to an inclusive and respectful workplace where everyone is valued for their unique contribution. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age.

What we offer

As an employee of Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research, you will work with passionate and talented people in a caring and family friendly environment; enjoy good staff benefits and the opportunity for personal growth and career development. Whilst the role is based at our Wellington office, we do support a flexible working environment, with requests for both informal and formal flexible work arrangements given due consideration.

How to apply

Enquiries about the position may be directed to Graham Sevicke-Jones; [email protected] further details about Manaaki Whenua-Landcare Research, watch this short clip: Manaaki Whenua and visit our website: www.landcareresearch.co.nz