This person should have a deep love for Toronto and the people who live here. They should have the skills to distil complex policy ideas to communicate the tangible changes that make peoples’ lives better and be committed to telling the stories of people in the city. This person should have an understanding of the political dynamics of City Hall, and support the Mayor’s vision of building a more caring, affordable and safe city.
Responsibilities
The Director of Communications will be responsible for delivering on the strategic and day-to-day communications needs of the Mayor’s office:
- Develop and oversee the implementation of proactive and responsive communications campaigns related to priority policy items and communicating the Mayor’s vision
- Work closely with other members of the senior leadership team to ensure coordination with tour, council relations, stakeholder relations, and the legislative and policy processes
- Oversee the development and execution of comprehensive social and digital strategies including – videos, social media shareables, and other creative content, in collaboration with Communications Officers and outside vendors (videographers, etc.)
- Build good working relationships with other Councillors and external stakeholders to advance communications and other needs
- Liaise with City Staff to plan and develop events, announcements and other communications opportunities
- Actively monitor and respond to the external environment, including news and social media, to understand the communications landscape and anticipate/plan for future needs
- Manage and support the communications team that includes the Mayor’s Press Secretary (who leads day-to-day media relations), and Digital and Communications Officers
- Support and participate in writing speeches for the Mayor
- Working with the Press Secretary, build good working relationships with journalists in the City Hall media gallery and beyond
- Manage and support the communications team on engaging with a variety of media sources across multiple languages and communities
- Provide advice to the Mayor and senior leadership team on proactive and reactive media opportunities, including social media, speeches and managing issues as they arise
- Manage and support the Communications Officer in developing proactive digital campaigns and strategies and responding to emerging issues
Qualifications, Skills & Experience
- Experience as a senior manager or director, leading projects and managing teams
- At least 6 years of communications experience
- At least 3 years of progressive management experience
- Minimum 5 years experience in government or politics, preferably some experience at the municipal level
- Comfort with ambiguity, tension, conflict and problem-solving in high-stakes and rapidly evolving situations
- Strong political judgement
- Experience working with elected officials of all stripes with diplomacy and tact.
- Strong interpersonal skills and advanced strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
- Experience in a fast-paced environment with competing deadlines, that involves working with multiple stakeholders
- Highly motivated leader and collaborator excited to take on challenges
- Creative approach to storytelling and problem-solving
- Ability to work well and support staff under pressure
- Familiarity with the Ganz public narrative framework is an asset
Application Procedure & Employment
Competitive salary and full-time indefinite contract for the duration of the term of office.
Anticipated start date: November 4, 2024 or sooner.
Location: In person work at Toronto City Hall, with some travel throughout the city.
If you have any questions please contact Francis Kung, Director of Operations, Office of Mayor Olivia Chow at [email protected].
Please submit a letter of interest and a detailed resume by Sunday, September 29 at 11:59 pm to [email protected].
Subject line: Application for Director of Communications
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
The City is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to creating a workplace culture of inclusiveness that reflects the diverse residents that we serve. Learn more about the City’s commitment to employment equity.
Accommodation
The City of Toronto is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive organization. We are committed to providing barrier-free and accessible employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Should you require Code-protected accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please make them known when contacted and we will work with you to meet your needs. Contact [email protected] if you have questions.
