Stakeholder Engagement Adviser

Support exporters; strengthen New Zealand’s trade future.

• Be part of a team working on exciting and important trade issues.
• Help connect New Zealanders with the opportunities created by our free trade agreements.
• Use your event management, administration, relationship, and communication skills to make a real difference.

About the Role - Kōrero mō te tūranga

Are you a natural organiser, relationship builder, and communicator? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where your initiative and attention to detail make a real impact?

We’re looking for a proactive and organised Stakeholder Engagement Adviser to join the Trade Policy, Engagement and Implementation (TPEI) team within MFAT’s Trade and Economic Group (TEG).

 As part of TPEI, you’ll support the implementation and utilisation of New Zealand’s trade agreements. You’ll help ensure that engagement with Treaty partners, industry, and other stakeholders is strategic, inclusive, and effective.

This is a hands-on role where you’ll be responsible for:

• Planning and delivering events that support trade policy engagement across Aotearoa and internationally.
• Managing logistics and administration to ensure events and engagements run smoothly and professionally.
• Creating clear, engaging communications to support outreach and consultation by others in MFAT’s Trade and Economic Group.
• Building and maintaining relationships predominantly with internal stakeholders but also with Treaty partners, businesses and NZ Inc agencies.

To view the full position description, please click here.

What We’re Looking For - Mā‎ wai te mahi nei

We’re after someone who is:

• A self-starter with delivery mindset who can take the initiative and get things done.
• Organised and detail-focused, with strong administrative and project coordination skills.
• Experienced in event management, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Skilled in relationship management, with a collaborative and professional approach.
• A confident communicator—both written and verbal—with a flair for crafting stakeholder-facing content.
• Experience in trade or economic policy is a bonus, but not essential. What matters most is your ability to get things done, work well with others, and bring energy and structure to a busy and rewarding portfolio.
• Understanding of The Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti, Te Reo Māori and Māori customs and protocols would be beneficial.

Why MFAT? - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Aorere?

We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development, and flexible work options consistent with guidance from the Public Service Commission.  Check out our benefits page to find out more about why we love working here.

MFAT is Rainbow Tick accredited. We value diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and a sense of belonging.  We welcome applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds. 

Appointing salary range: $89,601 – $105,412 total remuneration depending on skills and experience (including 3% KiwiSaver employer contribution).

About us - Mō mātou

Our people represent New Zealand on and offshore, and in doing so make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous.  By building connections with and influencing other countries and international institutions, we advance New Zealand’s interests and pursue New Zealand's values.  We provide advice to the Government on the implications for New Zealand of what is happening in the world. 

How to Apply – Me pēhea te tuku tono

Apply now with your CV and cover letter.

Applications close: Midnight, Sunday 24th August 2025.

If you have any questions, please contact recruitment@mfat.govt.nz 

Please note: This is not a Foreign Policy/diplomatic role. This is a ‘Corporate’ role (known here as a specialist role based in central Wellington, NZ.

While it is not usual for specialist staff to be ‘posted’ outside of NZ, from time to time a specialist role overseas becomes available at one of our embassies, high commissions, missions or consulates. To be considered for one of these positions you would need to apply and be considered via a competitive recruitment process.