Manager / Senior Manager, Communications & Engagement (Special Education Needs)

About the role

The Ministry of Education is looking for a Manager or Senior Manager, Communications and Engagement within its Special Education Needs Division. You will join a team responsible for strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and partnership development, working closely with Special Education (SPED) schools, Social Service Agencies (SSAs), families and partners to share key initiatives and policies, foster collaboration and build trust across the sector.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement communication and engagement strategies that support branch priorities and initiatives.
• Translate policies and programmes into clear, accessible materials such as press releases, speeches, presentations, briefing notes and digital content, tailored to different stakeholder groups.
• Build and maintain relationships with SPED schools, SSAs, families, community partners and government agencies through engagements, consultations, visits, events and sector platforms.
• Support partnerships and collaborations that improve outcomes for SPED students and schools.
• Gather and analyse stakeholder feedback to inform policy and programme development and recommend improvements to communication and outreach.

Required profile

• Experience in communications, stakeholder engagement, public affairs, education or a related field.
• Ability to turn complex policies into clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences.
• Strong relationship management, facilitation and interpersonal skills across diverse stakeholders.
• Organised and effective at managing projects, events and multiple priorities.
• Good judgement, adaptability and a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset, with a passion for inclusion and educational outcomes for students with special educational needs.