Director of Communications

Aplin is pleased to partner with our client to hire a Director of Communications. In this role, you will be responsible for leading both the Communications and Creative Services teams, ensuring the effective planning, development, and execution of all initiatives — from marketing campaigns and graphic design to social media, media relations, and comprehensive communications strategies.

In this role, you will bring creative insight and a deep understanding of communications, marketing, and design, along with a proven ability to lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performing team.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative and dynamic leader with strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills, and a track record of managing multi-disciplinary teams and complex communication portfolios at a senior level.

Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic direction and leadership for all communications, marketing, citizen engagement, media relations, and design functions
• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications and citizen engagement strategy aligned with organizational priorities
• Oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of communications and creative initiatives across government departments, affiliated institutions, and stakeholders
• Guide the development of campaigns, digital strategies, speech writing, social media content, and materials tailored to diverse audiences
• Offer expert advice and leadership on media relations, branding, stakeholder engagement, and public messaging
• Monitor projects to ensure timely completion, quality standards, and alignment with strategic objectives
• Collaborate with executive leadership, internal departments, and external partners to enhance communication processes and procedures
• Lead, coach, and support a team , fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment
• Manage departmental budgets, oversee grant applications, and ensure funding and reporting requirements are fulfilled
• Stay informed on provincial and federal political landscapes to align messaging and engagement strategies accordingly
• Promote strong, long-lasting relationships with internal and external stakeholders, the media, and the broader public

Qualifications:

• Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field; advanced education or accreditation is an asset
• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience, including leading a team of direct reports.
• Minimum 5 years working in communications, marketing, or public affairs, preferably within government, public sector, or institutional environments
• Proven experience developing communications strategies.
• Proven experience managing teams.
• Experience or knowledge of creative services, including graphic design, videography, photography, and development of communications strategies.
• Exceptional communication skills, with experience in speech writing, media relations, and public engagement
• Strong project management, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Experience managing budgets and overseeing funding applications and reporting processes
• Demonstrated ability to drive strategy, lead through change, and build collaborative relationships across all levels
• Political acumen with an understanding of provincial and federal government environments

David Aplin & Associates Inc., operating as Aplin, and its associated brands, CompuStaff and Impact Recruitment, is an award-winning employment agency connecting diverse, top-tier talent with exceptional organizations across North America. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and charge no fees to apply or engage with our recruiters. Our clients partner with us to help expand and diversify their teams. Please note that all applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada, including holding any necessary work permits.