How Mana Communications Built a Workplace People Love
Feature with HYER
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Making change with stories that matter. That’s the vision at the core of Mana Communications, a three in one, PR, digital marketing, and brand strategy agency that has built its reputation on crafting meaningful narratives that create impact. Whether working with global organisations or grassroots initiatives, Mana exists to tell stories that matter, shaping reputations, protecting brands, and giving voice to organisations that align with its values.
Since its founding, Mana has intentionally prioritised service delivery to ensure that every client is treated like part of the team. It’s an agency where relationships come first—internally and externally—and where creativity and strategy come together to drive meaningful change. They pride themselves on being a three in one agency and having a model to reach audiences with one unified strategy, across all channels
The same values that drive its client work—authenticity, connection, and purpose—are reflected in how the team operates every day. That commitment to putting people first has earned them a well-deserved place on the Culture New Zealand Awards list, recognising them as one of New Zealand’s most loved companies to work for.
Mana Communications isn’t just another PR and marketing agency. It’s a place where people are given the space to do their best work while maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life. The agency’s ethos is built around flexibility, trust, and creating an environment where employees feel valued—not just for their output, but for who they are.
The team operates with a high level of autonomy, allowing individuals to take ownership of their projects while knowing they have the support of their colleagues when they need it. Work is fast-paced, but it’s not about relentless hustle—it’s about working smart, setting clear boundaries, and ensuring that no one is taking work home or answering late-night emails on a regular basis. Notifications are switched off, and when someone is on annual leave, the rest of the team steps in seamlessly. The result? A workplace where people can bring their best selves to work without sacrificing their well-being.
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What truly sets Mana Communications apart is its passion for purpose-driven work. Employees aren’t just delivering marketing strategies; they’re working with companies that align with their values. The agency actively seeks out clients that are making a positive impact—whether in conservation, community building, or reducing stigma around important social issues. Employees are even encouraged to bring forward organisations they feel passionate about for pro bono support. When work has purpose, motivation follows naturally.
Personal growth is just as important as professional success at Mana. Regular one-on-one check-ins ensure that employees aren’t just progressing within their roles but also developing skills that interest them—even if they fall outside traditional PR and marketing. Whether it’s video editing, design, or another creative discipline, the agency supports its people in expanding their capabilities and exploring new areas of expertise.
And when it comes to work-life balance, Mana is setting a new standard. Their 9-day fortnight gives employees an extra 26 days off per year, providing more time to recharge, pursue hobbies, or spend time with family. It’s not just a perk—it’s an intentional way of making sure people have the energy and inspiration to produce great work without burning out.
The agency also takes a different approach to hiring. Skills and experience matter, but attitude and ambition matter more. Mana looks for optimistic, solutions-driven people who are eager to learn and grow. They don’t just assess where a candidate has been—they focus on where they want to go. This mindset ensures that every hire is not only a great fit for the team but is also set up for long-term success.
Why The Culture New Zealand Award?
Winning the Culture New Zealand Award is a reflection of what Mana Communications has built—not just a successful agency, but a workplace where people feel genuinely supported, valued, and inspired. This award isn’t about surface-level perks. It’s based on real employee insights, measuring what truly makes a workplace exceptional. Thousands of employees across New Zealand were asked:
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What’s one moment that showed you your company truly cares about its people?
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What’s the secret to your connection with the company culture?
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What initiatives make you feel valued and help you grow?
Alongside these insights, Employee Net Promoter Scores (eNPS) and career growth satisfaction metrics highlighted the companies that don’t just offer jobs—they create workplaces where people genuinely love to be. Mana Communications has built something rare—a culture that prioritises people in every sense of the word. Whether it’s the work they do, the clients they partner with, or the way they support their team, the agency proves that when a company values its people, success follows naturally.
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