Director, Public Affairs and Communications

WSP; Toronto; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Toronto is looking for a Director of Public Affairs and Communications. This senior role involves leading strategies for stakeholder engagement, building trusted relationships, and managing effective communication efforts. The ideal candidate should have over 10 years of experience in major infrastructure projects. WSP offers competitive pay, flexible work options, and a commitment to inclusion and innovation.

Benefits

Flexible Work Policy

Comprehensive benefits including virtual healthcare

Savings programs

Qualifications

• 10+ years guiding communications for major transit or infrastructure projects.
• Expertise in innovative engagement strategies.
• Exceptional ability to foster relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Champion the design of marketing strategies aligned with client goals.
• Nurture relationships with stakeholders and media.
• Lead teams for unified communication efforts.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Relationship Building

Crisis Management

Analytical Skills

Job description

The Opportunity

WSP’s Transportation and Infrastructure team in Canada is growing and seeking an experienced and strategic professional to serve as Director, Public Affairs and Communications. This senior leadership role is central to shaping stakeholder relationships and project success. As the Director, you will actively participate in implementing engagement strategies to maintain the reputation of WSP and to support regulatory filings and achieving social acceptance of the various projects for which you will be responsible.

Why choose WSP?

• We value and are committed to upholding a culture ofinclusionandbelonging
• OurFlexible Work Policy– we recognize the importance of balance in our lives and encourage you to prioritize the balance in yours. We will support you on and off the job so you can be fully present in both your work and home lives.
• ACanadiansuccess story - we'reproudto wear the red and white of this beautiful country and show the world what Canada has to offer.
• Enhancethe world around you - from the environment to the highways, to the buildings and the terrain, WSP is the fabric of Canada.
• Outstandingcareer opportunities - we're growing and pushing ourselves every day to be greater than yesterday - we're open toyourideas and tryingnewthings.
• A phenomenalcollaborativeculture and a workforce filled with genuinelygood peoplewho are doing humbly important work. Come find out for yourself what it's like to be a part of our journey.

We offer attractive pay, flexible work options, a great corporate culture, comprehensive and employee-focused benefits including virtual healthcare and a wellness platform as well as great savings programs, and a clear vision for the future.

#WeAreWSP

What you can expect to do here:

• Champion the design and execution of public affairs, communications, and marketing strategies that align with client and project goals.
• Forge and nurture strong relationships with stakeholders, including governments officials and media, and serve as the project's trusted spokesperson.
• Lead cross-functional teams to drive collaborative and unified communication efforts.
• Ensure consistency and excellence in all public-facing materials, providing final approval on strategies, plans, and deliverables.
• Anticipate emerging challenges and spearhead effective crisis communication responses.
• Measure, analyse, and report on the impact of communications initiatives, ensuring continuous improvement and accountability.

What you’ll bring to WSP:

• Proven Leadership: 10+ years guiding communications and engagement for major transit, construction, or infrastructure projects.
• Strategic Vision: Expertise in developing and executing innovative engagement and communications strategies.
• Relationship Builder: Exceptional ability to foster trusted relationships with communities, governments, and diverse stakeholders.
• Confident Communicator: Media-trained public speaker, skilled in crisis messaging and high-profile issue management.
• Metrics-Driven: Experience monitoring outreach effectiveness and translating insights into meaningful reports.
• Industry Savvy: Deep knowledge of construction processes, public sector protocols, legislative and regulatory requirements.
• Outstanding Soft Skills: Proactive, inclusive, resilient, and highly organized—your energy sets the standard.