Director of Communications and Public Affairs
Good Shepherd Centres•Hamilton, ON
•CA$47 - CA$57•Hybrid
About The Position
Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Director of Communications and Public Affairs plays a critical leadership role in enhancing Good Shepherd's profile and influence in Hamilton, Toronto and Niagara. This role leads the development and execution of comprehensive communications strategies, government relations, and media engagement, ensuring that all messaging reflects the organization's mission, vision, and values. This is a dynamic leadership opportunity to help shape organizational voice, strengthen public partnerships, and support funding and advocacy efforts. The Director will lead a small communications team while working closely with senior leadership, community and government partners to advance Good Shepherd's strategic priorities.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Political Science, Journalism, or a related field (Master's degree preferred)
- Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in communications, public relations, and/or government relations
- Minimum 5 years of leadership experience, including supervising and developing teams
- Demonstrated experience in government relations within Canada, with strong understanding of municipal, provincial, and federal systems
- Experience in the non-profit sector, preferably within healthcare or social services
- Proven ability to develop and execute strategic communications plans
- Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills across diverse audiences
- Experience managing media relations and crisis communications
- Strong relationship-building skills with executives, government officials, media, and community partners
- Demonstrated leadership, coaching, and team development capabilities
- Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
- Experience with grant writing and program evaluation reporting
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and digital communication tools
- Experience with social media strategy, content management systems, and digital platforms
- Valid Ontario driver's license and ability to travel across Hamilton, Niagara, and Toronto
- Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends as required
- Demonstrated commitment to anti-racism, anti-oppression, and cultural competence
Nice To Haves
- Bilingual (French/English)
- Familiarity with CARF accreditation standards
- Knowledge of homelessness, mental health, addiction, and social services sectors
Responsibilities
- Lead all internal and external communications across Good Shepherd Centres and Good Shepherd Non-Profit Homes
- Develop and implement integrated communications strategies to enhance organizational visibility and public perception
- Oversee media relations, media strategy, and issues management, including acting as spokesperson when appropriate
- Lead crisis communications planning and execution to mitigate reputational risk
- Advise the CEO and senior leadership on communications strategy and messaging
- Establish and maintain relationships with municipal, provincial, and federal government interest holders
- Collaborate in the development and implementation of advocacy strategies aligned with Good Shepherd's mission and broader health and human services priorities
- Monitor legislative and policy developments and provide strategic insights to leadership
- Support funding access through strategic government engagement and relationship-building
- Lead and mentor the communications team, including performance management and professional development
- Build and maintain relationships with media, community partners, funders, and internal interest holders
- Identify and lead grant opportunities, including proposal development, grant writing, and program evaluation reporting
- Develop and manage the communications budget and oversee vendor and consultant relationships
- Ensure all communications are culturally competent, respectful, and aligned with anti-racist and anti-oppression frameworks
- Represent Good Shepherd at external meetings, events, and community engagements
- Ensure compliance with applicable regulations, policies, and organizational standards
- Participate in Good Shepherd's Health and Safety programs and comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act
Benefits
- Support for continuing education and professional development
- Staff recognition programs
- Access to self-care supports and employee family assistance program (EAP)
- Extended health benefits
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
Upload and Match Resume
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
