Director of Communications

Aplin; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Aplin is seeking a strategic Director of Communications & Citizen Engagement to oversee comprehensive communications strategies and manage teams. This senior position requires strong political acumen, excellent interpersonal skills, and a proven ability to mentor teams. The role emphasizes collaboration with leadership and stakeholders to ensure effective public messaging and stakeholder relations, contributing to the organization’s goals.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience with direct reports.
• 5 years in communications or public affairs, ideally in government.
• Strong understanding of political environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic communications, marketing, and engagement functions.
• Oversee planning and execution of initiatives like digital strategies.
• Manage budgets and fulfill funding requirements.

Skills

Creative vision

Political acumen

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Relationship-building

Education

Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing or related field

Advanced education or accreditation

Tools

Graphic design

Videography

Photography

Communications strategy development

Job description

Aplin is pleased to partner with our client to hire a strategic and experienced Director of Communications & Citizen Engagement. This senior leader will oversee the Communications and Creative Services teams, guiding the development and execution of comprehensive communications, marketing, and engagement strategies that advance the organization’s goals and strengthen connections with citizens, stakeholders, media, and government partners.

The ideal candidate will bring creative vision, strong political acumen, and a proven ability to mentor and inspire high-performing, multi-disciplinary teams. A collaborative and dynamic leader, they will possess exceptional interpersonal skills and experience in managing complex communication portfolios.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership for all communications, marketing, engagement, media relations, and design functions
• Lead and support Communications and Creative teams through managers, ensuring alignment across departments, affiliates, and stakeholders
• Oversee the planning and execution of communications initiatives, including campaigns, digital strategies, speech writing, social media, and media relations
• Advise on branding, public messaging, stakeholder relations, and media strategy
• Monitor and manage projects to ensure quality, timeliness, and alignment with organizational objectives
• Collaborate with executive leadership, internal teams, and external partners to strengthen communication processes
• Manage budgets, oversee grants, and fulfill funding and reporting requirements
• Align messaging with evolving provincial and federal political landscapes
• Foster strong, lasting relationships with internal and external stakeholders

Qualifications:

• Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field; advanced education or accreditation is an asset
• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience, including managing direct reports and multi-disciplinary teams
• Minimum 5 years in communications, marketing, or public affairs, ideally in government, public sector, or institutional settings
• Political awareness with a strong understanding of provincial and federal environments
• Experience or knowledge in graphic design, videography, photography, and communications strategy development
• Strong communication skills, including speech writing, media relations, and public engagement
• Proven project management, organizational, and relationship-building abilities
• Experience managing budgets, grants, and reporting processes
• Ability to lead strategy, drive change, and collaborate effectively at all levels
  
  

David Aplin & Associates Inc., operating as Aplin, and its associated brands, CompuStaff and Impact Recruitment, is an award-winning employment agency connecting diverse, top-tier talent with exceptional organizations across North America. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and charge no fees to apply or engage with our recruiters. Our clients partner with us to help expand and diversify their teams. Please note that all applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada, including holding any necessary work permits.