Director, Strategic Communications & Engagement

ontariotechu • Oshawa, ON

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Director, Strategic Communications & Engagement is a senior advisor responsible for developing and executing high-level communications strategies that protect and enhance Ontario Tech’s reputation while promoting institutional priorities and leadership visibility. This role provides strategic direction for communications that engage diverse audiences—internal and external—across media, government, academia, and the public. The Director leads integrated communications strategies that support the university’s strategic goals, strengthen its reputation, and position Ontario Tech as a thought leader in key areas such as innovation, research, and education. A skilled communicator and strategist, the Director crafts compelling messages, manages sensitive issues, and provides expert guidance to senior leaders on public positioning and engagement.

Requirements

• Expertise in strategic communications, media relations, and stakeholder engagement
• Proven success in issues management and crisis communication
• Excellent writing and editing skills across multiple formats
• Strong political acuity, analytical skills, and sound judgment
• Demonstrated ability to advise senior leaders and navigate complex, high-profile environments
• Collaborative leadership style with experience influencing across portfolios
• Ability to manage competing priorities and maintain composure under pressure
• Completion of a four year university degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Affairs, English, Political Science, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred)
• A combination of education and experience may be considered for this role
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in strategic communications, public affairs, or executive advisory roles—preferably within post-secondary, government, or non-profit sectors
• Strong familiarity with Ontario’s post-secondary environment, including academic-sector dynamics, student, staff and faculty relations

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree preferred

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement communication strategies that advance the university’s institutional goals, reputation, and public profile
• Prepare high-impact content including speeches, statements, and media materials for senior leadership
• Guide tone and themes for external communications to ensure consistency with Ontario Tech’s brand, values, and strategic priorities
• Support media engagement and represent the institution as a spokesperson when appropriate
• Collaborate with internal partners to coordinate messaging across all university channels
• Identify and leverage opportunities to enhance Ontario Tech’s profile across the higher education, government, and innovation sectors
• Monitor trends and developments in the post-secondary and public sectors to inform strategic messaging
• Advise senior leadership on public affairs, sector trends, and reputational considerations
• Foster relationships with key stakeholders, including media, sector partners, and community organizations
• Collaborate with Brand & Marketing, Government Relations, and Partnerships teams to maintain alignment and consistency in messaging
• Lead the development of communication strategies in response to emerging issues or crises
• Provide advice and coordination for leadership messaging during sensitive or high-profile situations
• Monitor media and public sentiment to anticipate and address risks proactively
• Develop and execute communication materials such as statements, FAQs, and internal updates
• Work closely with the Brand & Communications team to ensure cohesive and responsive communications across platforms

Benefits

• Equity, diversity, inclusion, indigenization and decolonization (EDIID)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director