Kō wai mātou? Who are we?

Zespri is more than just the world’s single-largest marketer of kiwifruit. We like to think of ourselves as fruit on a mission: to help people, communities and the environment around the world thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit. We are proudly the world’s largest marketer of kiwifruit and 100 percent grower-owned, selling our premium, healthy, delicious Zespri Kiwifruit in more than 50 countries. We work with around 2,800 New Zealand and 1,500 international growers and post-harvest companies to source the best-quality Zespri Kiwifruit which we supply through our distribution partners to wholesale and retail customers. We are one of New Zealand’s best-known international brands, dedicated to creating sustainable long-term value for growers.

He aha te mahi? What's the role?

We're looking for an External Relations Advisor – Community and Government to manage our day-to-day delivery of Zespri’s community investment programme and organise our public affairs initiatives.

As part of our Global Public Affairs team, you'll be at the forefront of building Zespri's corporate reputation in New Zealand and beyond. You’ll be an influential force in our communities, forging strong relationships across the board, from government officials to industry leaders, colleagues across the company and community partners.

This isn't just a job—it's a chance to make a real difference. You'll be driving our New Zealand public affairs strategy, supporting our community investment programme, and helping Zespri deliver its purpose of supporting people, communities, and the environment.

Key accountabilities include:

• Day-to-day management of Zespri’s community investment programme and building Zespri’s corporate profile in New Zealand
• Build and maintain strong relationships with parliamentary, government, business and other related external stakeholders
• Manage, together with the Tours and Events team, key public affairs events
• Responsibility for New Zealand External Relations cost centre management, including monitoring expenditure against forecast
• Provide some administrative support for the Public Affairs team.
  

Ko wai koe? Who are you?

This is an energetic and diverse role – best suited for someone who is a self-starter who can navigate through different environments. Versatility, flexibility and a willingness to “muck in” across different work areas depending on the particular demands at the time are essential. You will also meet the following selection criteria:

• A relevant tertiary qualification
• Previous experience working in community investment, government relations, public affairs or similar
• Professional and personable when representing Zespri at external events including public speaking as required
• Flexible and able to attend events after work hours as needed
  

He aha e tika ai a Zespri? Why Zespri?

Our people are what makes our culture so irresistible and uniquely Zespri. We are a passionate and mighty team of 900+ employees in 23 different locations globally. Working at Zespri is an opportunity to join a fast-paced, culture-driven environment unlike any other. We want people who share our values of being personally connected, results-driven and committed to guardianship. Join us in shaping our future and be part of a truly unique organisation.

• Competitive overall remuneration package, including a short-term incentive scheme opportunity
• Flex WELL flexible work ethos: WFH and the office
• Additional paid annual leave day each year (Zespri Day)
• Additional paid day to volunteer in your community
• Global life and permanent disability insurance
• Group medical insurance benefits
• Convenient Mt Maunganui office location
• Your daily dose of Vitamin C with free kiwifruit!

Tono mai inaianei!

At Zespri, we understand the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences, and a fair hiring process is the first step to getting there. We want to attract a diverse range of people and encourage everyone from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Please let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments to take part in the recruitment and selection process by reaching out to our Talent Acquisition team by email at careers@zespri.com.