Michael Player is a former senior communications leader and specialist based in Porirua New Zealand. During a long working career, primarily in the public sector, he had extensive experience in participating in and advising executive leadership teams, working across government, managing corporate communication teams, strategy development and action plans.  Now pursuing other interests post his paid working life and no longer seeking contract positions.

Post work activity

2023 - present

Committee member Te Hononga Ki Te Upoko/Wellington Catchments Collective

2022 - present

Porirua Talanoa Forum

2021 - present

Chairperson, Te Awarua o Porirua Harbour and Catchments Community Trust

Wesley Social Services "Just Change" -  learning circle member

2021 - 2023

Executive Board Advisor, Emergency Media and Public Affairs (EMPA)

2019 - present

Trustee, Porirua Harbour Trust

Work history

Contractor - Ministry of Transport

Acting Communications and Engagement Manager.   Managed the team while a short review was undertaken and recruitment of a new manager got underway.  Late April to late June 2021.  Final work career assignment. 

Contractor - WorkSafe

Quality assurance on planning for a major announcement. 

Contractor - Ministry of Transport

Project communications role assisting the end stage of the Auckland Light Rail parallel proposals process. 

Contractor -  Wairarapa Water Resilience Strategy Project

Worked on this highly topical and fascinating project which spans three district councils, the Greater Wellington Regional Council and many rural, industry and environmental groups. Collaboration requires good communication and engagement.   Assignment was in the start-up phase for the first quarter of 2020. 

Contractor – WorkSafe

Worked on White Island response communications with WorkSafe in December 2019 and January 2020.  Was great to be back with the Health and Safety regulator and several of the highly professional team I last worked with in 2016.  Read more work history