I am a communications professional with a long track record in radio, media relations, and stakeholder engagement. I’ve led campaigns and process improvements for large organisations, translating complex issues into clear, credible messages across media, digital platforms, and community channels. I’m passionate about developing strategic initiatives that boost brand presence, drive productivity, and enhance customer service delivery. Throughout my career I’ve managed high‑profile communications in government, environmental policy, and industry associations. I excel at building relationships with diverse stakeholders, shaping strategic plans, and coaching leaders to communicate effectively under pressure. I’m committed to delivering creative, practical solutions that strengthen reputations and deliver measurable results.

Rebecca Flannery

I am a communications professional with a long track record in radio, media relations, and stakeholder engagement. I’ve led campaigns and process improvements for large organisations, translating complex issues into clear, credible messages across media, digital platforms, and community channels. I’m passionate about developing strategic initiatives that boost brand presence, drive productivity, and enhance customer service delivery. Throughout my career I’ve managed high‑profile communications in government, environmental policy, and industry associations. I excel at building relationships with diverse stakeholders, shaping strategic plans, and coaching leaders to communicate effectively under pressure. I’m committed to delivering creative, practical solutions that strengthen reputations and deliver measurable results.

Available to hire

I am a communications professional with a long track record in radio, media relations, and stakeholder engagement. I’ve led campaigns and process improvements for large organisations, translating complex issues into clear, credible messages across media, digital platforms, and community channels. I’m passionate about developing strategic initiatives that boost brand presence, drive productivity, and enhance customer service delivery.

Throughout my career I’ve managed high‑profile communications in government, environmental policy, and industry associations. I excel at building relationships with diverse stakeholders, shaping strategic plans, and coaching leaders to communicate effectively under pressure. I’m committed to delivering creative, practical solutions that strengthen reputations and deliver measurable results.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Press Secretary - Minister of Biosecurity at New Zealand Parliament
January 1, 2024 - Present
Manage all media relations and communications for the Minister of Biosecurity; coordinate media interviews, press conferences, and ministerial appearances; write and deliver media statements, press releases, and talking points; monitor media coverage and provide strategic communications advice; handle media inquiries and crisis communications on biosecurity issues; liaise with government communications teams and ministerial staff
Principal Communications Advisor at Environment Canterbury
January 1, 2023 - January 1, 2024
Led strategic communications for regional environmental authority; developed and delivered communications strategies for environmental policy and regulation; managed stakeholder engagement and community consultation processes; produced content across multiple platforms including social media, web, and traditional media; provided media training and support to senior leaders and technical staff
National Communications Advisor at Federated Farmers of New Zealand
July 1, 2019 - January 1, 2023
COVID-19 Response Team Communications Officer; conceived and delivered nationwide communications for agricultural policy, including roadshows and live streaming; launched FEDtalks podcast and managed multi‑channel communications across newsletters, briefing documents, social media, and digital platforms; collaborated with Beef + Lamb NZ on policy roadshows
Communications Advisor (Contract) at Alpine Energy Limited
July 1, 2018 - July 1, 2019
Developed crisis communications framework (7-7-7-7 rule); produced video and audio content for the Cook Islands Renewable Energy Project; managed 24/7 outage communications; delivered cost reductions through strategic improvements; created video marketing materials and increased Facebook reach
Media Coach (Part-time) at Otago Academy of Sport
July 1, 2008 - October 31, 2010
Designed and delivered customized media training programs for high-performance athletes; coached interview techniques, messaging, and on-camera presence; managed athlete development and progress evaluation
Breakfast Announcer at MediaWorks
June 1, 2004 - March 31, 2008
Breakfast Host, News Presenter, and Announcer for More FM breakfast program; researched and prepared daily programming and interview content; wrote and delivered scripts for talkback programming; operated studio equipment; conducted interviews and presented news, sports, and weather; hosted outside broadcasts
Breakfast Announcer at MediaWorks
October 1, 1993 - December 31, 1996
Breakfast Host, News Presenter, and Announcer for More FM breakfast program; researched and prepared daily programming and interview content; wrote and delivered scripts for talkback programming; operated studio equipment; conducted interviews and presented news, sports, and weather; hosted outside broadcasts

Education

Level 600 Broadcast Communications at New Zealand Broadcasting School, Christchurch
January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2016
Certificate in Broadcasting at New Zealand Broadcasting School, Christchurch
January 1, 1992 - December 31, 1993
ATCL Speech and Drama Diploma at Trinity College, London
January 1, 2000 - December 31, 2002
Diploma in Theatrical Studies at Hagley Theatre Company, Christchurch
January 1, 1991 - December 31, 1991

Qualifications

Multi-Agency Emergency Management Training (CIMS 3+4)
January 1, 2021 - March 20, 2026
PR Summer Camp
January 1, 2020 - March 20, 2026
First Aid Certificate
January 1, 2019 - March 20, 2026

Industry Experience

Government, Media & Entertainment, Agriculture & Mining, Education, Professional Services