Corporate Manager, Communications

OCS Ontario Cannabis Store • Toronto, ON

10d • Onsite

About The Position

The Corporate Manager, Communications is responsible for developing and executing internal and external communications strategies that support OCS corporate priorities. This role reports to the Director, Communications and oversees media relations, issues management, stakeholder communications, and operational support across the organization, ensuring clear, consistent, and timely messaging. The successful candidate is a results‑driven leader who proactively drives work forward and establishes or refines processes as needed. The Manager provides hands‑on, day‑to‑day leadership to the Communications team, ensuring clear priorities, strong guidance, and the accountability required to consistently deliver high‑quality work within organizational timelines.

Requirements

• Post‑secondary education in Journalism, Communications, Media, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience working in communications or a related field in the public or private sector.
• 1–2 years of people management experience required.
• Strong interpersonal skills with excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Outstanding writing skills with the ability to translate complex information into clear, concise, and compelling communications.
• Excellent analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, rapidly changing environment.
• Strong technical proficiency, including experience with the Microsoft Office Suite.
• High degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, handle last‑minute requests, and remain flexible in the face of competing demands.
• Demonstrated ability to remain diplomatic and composed in high‑pressure situations.

Nice To Haves

• A Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Communications, Media, or a related field is preferred.
• 3–5 years of people management experience is preferred.
• Fluency in French is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop, manage, and lead execution of comprehensive internal and external communications plans that support corporate priorities and cross‑organizational initiatives
• Create and deliver key messages, communications plans, and stakeholder‑facing content across all external and digital channels, while setting clear boundaries and ensuring deadlines and quality standards are met.
• Proactively manage issues and reputational risk by developing reactive communications, monitoring media and social channels for emerging concerns, mitigating risks, and escalating critical issues appropriately.
• Collaborate closely with the Ministry of Finance Communications team on issues management, information sharing, and communications approaches, navigating complex stakeholder environments with professionalism and sound judgment.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of communications strategies and materials using structured workflows, performance tracking, and continuous improvement practices to enhance quality and impact.
• Provide structured guidance to business leaders on internal communications, including format, timing, and level of detail, to ensure clarity, alignment, and efficiency.
• Proactively manage internal communications issues by anticipating risks, escalating concerns early, and coordinating timely responses.
• Develop and oversee communications tools and platforms
• Respond to media inquiries with accuracy and urgency by partnering with business leaders to develop clear, aligned messaging under tight timelines; act as primary media contact when required.
• Hire, develop, and lead a high‑performing communications team with the skills required to meet business objectives.
• Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and delivery by setting clear expectations for quality, timeliness, and follow‑through.

Benefits

• We are committed to providing an accessible, equitable and inclusive candidate and employee experience.
• We provide reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process and in employment. If you require an accommodation please let us know, we will work with you to meet your needs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees