Senior Narrative Advisor

Band 5

Wellington/Auckland office-based

• Short fixed-term role from 23 February to 30 June 2026

• Flexible working with opportunity for an immediate start

• Hours 30-37.5 per week

• Auckland or Wellington

The Human Rights Commission is seeking an experienced Senior Narrative Advisor to join us on a fixed-term basis from late February to 30 June 2026. This is a senior specialist role for someone with deep expertise in narrative research, framing, and strategic communication, and a strong commitment to human rights and Te Tiriti o Waitangi to work alongside our nation’s leading human rights practitioners.

Ko wai mātou | About the Human Rights Commission

We are committed to supporting a life of dignity for all, and to being a Te Tiriti based organisation tauira and human rights exemplar. We aim to ensure that all four articles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi are upheld at every level of the organisation and in all our activities. Our expectation is that all individuals and teams have an important role in contributing to this journey and to be nimble, focused and coordinated for collective impact.

Kōrero mō te tūranga | About the role

We are looking for an experienced Senior Narrative Advisor to lead and deliver narrative research and insights that strengthen the Human Rights Commission’s influence and impact. You will provide strategic advice on narrative theory, framing, and research methods, and build narrative capability across the organisation through mentoring, coaching, and training.

He kōrero mōu | About you

To be successful in this role you will ideally have:

• Postgraduate qualification (Masters or PhD) relevant to narrative research or framing

• At least five years’ experience conducting qualitative and quantitative research

• Strong understanding of framing, narratives, and public understanding of human rights

• Proven ability to communicate research insights to non-research audiences

• Experience providing strategic advice and improving research practice

• Knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and commitment to its application

Experience in the public sector, experimental methods, or advanced narrative frameworks is desirable.

Te Whakauruuru me te Kanorautanga | Inclusion & Diversity

We are open to applicants with a broad range of relevant and lived experiences as we celebrate diversity. To build a strong and representative workforce, we actively seek applications from people across our communities, including the disabled and neurodiverse, people with diverse ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds and from rainbow communities.

Please let us know, if any of our processes pose a barrier for you, or if you require any additional support that would facilitate your full participation in the application, selection and employment process.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

To apply, please complete the application form and be sure to include the following documents with your application:

• a covering letter; including what interests you about the role, your values and how you could be a good fit for the commission.

• Curriculum vitae (CV)

Please contact the People and Culture Team at the Human Rights Commission if you have any questions about the role or application process: peopleandculture@tikatangata.org.nz

Please note that we will require two references if you are shortlisted as the preferred candidate.

Applications close 4pm 19 February 2026 with interviews taking place on Friday 20 February, screening taking place as applications are received.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in Aotearoa | New Zealand and be able to satisfy standard pre-employment checks.