Digital Communications Strategist

Durham District School Board; Whitby; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Durham District School Board seeks a Digital Communications Strategist to lead digital platform governance, enhance user experience across school websites, and support digital transformation. This role requires a blend of strategic oversight, project management, and collaborative engagement within the educational community, aiming to foster effective digital communications.

Benefits

Inclusive environment

Commitment to equity and accessibility

Support for professional development

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of experience in digital communications or web management.
• Knowledge of accessibility standards (AODA) and CMS tools.
• Strong training skills for non-technical users.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic development of web architecture across platforms.
• Oversee all DDSB and school websites for accuracy and performance.
• Manage and report on website analytics.

Skills

Digital communications platforms

User experience

Project management

Interpersonal communication

Education

Post-secondary diploma or degree in Digital Communications, Web Design, Media, or Marketing

Tools

Google Analytics

WordPress

SharePoint

Job description

The Digital Communications Strategist leads the planning, development, governance, and performance of all digital communication platforms across the district, including over 130 public-facing school websites, the board site and the internal staff intranet.

This role ensures that all platforms reflect the DDSB's digital brand standards, accessibility requirements, and strategic communications priorities.

Working cross-functionally, the Strategist plays a key role in enhancing user experience, supporting digital transformation, and enabling school and central staff to communicate effectively in the digital space.

Key Accountabilities

• Digital Strategy & Governance
• Lead the strategic development, planning, and implementation of DDSB's web architecture across internal and external platforms.
• Establish and maintain digital governance, policies, and processes to ensure consistency, brand alignment, accessibility (AODA), and security.
• Advise Communications leadership on emerging digital trends, tools, and innovations.
• Website Management & Support
• Oversee all DDSB and school websites, ensuring accuracy, functionality, performance, and alignment with brand and accessibility standards.
• Manage relationships with external vendors and internal stakeholders for platform support, development, and enhancement.
• Lead structural planning and implementation of new sections or web builds.
• Support and train editors/content contributors across the system (Education Centre and schools).
• Manage and resolve digital support requests.
• Intranet & Internal Digital Tools
• Manage content strategy, structure, and updates for the intranet, ensuring an intuitive and engaging experience for internal users.
• Collaborate with IT, People & Culture, and other key teams to integrate tools and resources that support staff communications and operational effectiveness.
  
  

4 . Data, Analytics & Optimization

• Manage and report on website analytics using Google Analytics and internal search tools (e.g., CLUDO).
• Monitor and optimize digital content performance and search engine effectiveness.
• Provide regular insights and recommendations based on data to enhance user experience and reach.
  
  

5 . Brand Stewardship

• Develop and maintain digital brand guidelines.
• Ensure all digital content across platforms aligns with DDSB's visual identity, tone, and values.
• Provide consultation and review of content and visuals to maintain quality and consistency.
  
  

Qualifications And Skills

• Deep understanding of digital communications platforms and UX best practices.
• Strong web and intranet architecture planning and management skills.
• Familiarity with accessibility standards (e.g., AODA), responsive design, and CMS tools (e.g., WordPress, SharePoint).
• Proficiency with analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics), search platforms, and digital form systems.
• Strong training, facilitation, and support skills for non-technical users.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Strong written, visual, and interpersonal communication abilities.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and manage competing priorities with diplomacy and clarity.
  
  

Education

• Completion of a post-secondary diploma or degree in Digital Communications, Web Design, Media, Marketing, or a related field. A combination of education, training, and relevant experience will be considered.
  
  

Experience

• Minimum 8–10 years of experience in digital communications, web management, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in website governance, user experience design, branding, and vendor management.
• Experience working in the public or education sector is considered an asset.
  
  

Equity and Inclusion

The Durham District School Board recognizes Indigenous rights are distinct. In the exercise of those rights, Indigenous staff and students shall not be subjected to actions with the aim or effect of depriving these distinct rights.

The DDSB is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. We are committed to reflecting the diverse communities we serve and encourage applications from candidates who bring a variety of experiences and backgrounds. We adhere to fair, transparent hiring practices and are committed to equity and accessibility throughout the recruitment process. If you need accommodation during the application process, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Ignite Your Career

At the Durham District School Board (DDSB), we inspire the lives of over 80,000 students. Our diverse communities are places where your impact will be felt every day.

Picture yourself in a workplace where your ideas are celebrated, and your growth is a top priority. Here, collaboration and innovation thrive. Whether you're directly inspiring young minds or providing essential support behind the scenes, your contributions will have a meaningful impact on students and the community.

We welcome you to bring your experiences, your passions, and your talents to our inclusive community. Join us and be part of a team that values your well-being as much as your contributions. Ignite your potential at DDSB and help us make a difference, one student at a time.

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

#DDSBISHIRING