Communications and Customer Service Manager

About the Role

Stratford District Council is recruiting for a Communications and Customer Service Manager to lead the way we tell our story and connect with our community.

In this role, you will be responsible for shaping and delivering Council's communications across all channels, from media and digital platforms to community engagement and internal communications. You will set the strategic direction for how we communicate, ensure messaging is clear and consistent, and help our community understand not just what Council does, but why it matters. Alongside this, you will ensure customer service messaging and processes support trust, accessibility and effective first contact resolution.

This position is full time, working 40 hours per week, based at the Stratford District Council, Miranda Street, Stratford. The salary range for this position is $109,000 to $121,000 per annum, with the starting rate based on the skills and experience of the successful candidate.

Stratford District Council reserves the right to close this vacancy early if a sufficient number of suitable applications are received. To avoid disappointment, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

About You

You will have a tertiary qualification in communications, marketing or a related field, and a passion for clear, purposeful communication that builds understanding and trust.

You have strong experience leading communications functions, developing messaging and campaigns, managing media relationships, and using digital and social channels to engage diverse audiences. You are comfortable advising senior leaders, navigating complex issues, and translating detailed or technical information into messages people actually understand.

Stratford District Council is proud of our diverse and inclusive work environment, and our commitment to fostering strong partnerships with Mana Whenua. Our preferred candidate will respect and understand the importance of the Treaty of Waitangi to our mahi and be open to incorporating Te Ao Māori values and te reo Māori into their work.

Why work with us?

Our staff will tell you the best thing about working here is the people, a great staff culture is important to us. We have a positive, energetic work environment with plenty of laughter. Our customers and our communities are at the centre of what we do, and our people are what makes it work. If you join us, you will also benefit from ongoing professional development, a flexible working policy, te reo learning assistance, regular health checks opportunities, subsidised pool visits, an active social club, and free car parking!

About us

The Stratford District sits in the heart of the Taranaki region and is the gateway to Taranaki Maunga and the famous Forgotten World Highway. Our district is home to stunning parks and gardens, and there are countless opportunities to explore the landscape, arts and culture and local history. Working in Stratford gives you the best of both worlds; the lifestyle benefits of living in the world-renowned Taranaki region, paired with a workplace that values work-life balance. As a staff member of Stratford District Council there's a lot to be proud of and we welcome you to be part of the experience.

Visit stratford.govt.nz/vacancies to submit your application.

Applications close 15 May 2026