Executive Director, External Engagement

Lethbridge Polytechnic; Lethbridge; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Lethbridge Polytechnic in Alberta seeks an Executive Director, External Engagement to lead the institution's external relations, partnerships, and fundraising strategy.

Reporting to the President, the role oversees government relations, development and philanthropy, alumni relations, and community engagement, building durable relationships with Indigenous communities, industry partners, donors, and regional stakeholders.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive senior leadership experience in external relations or related field.
• Strong relationship-building, communication, and strategic leadership skills.
• Demonstrated ability to develop partnerships, engage stakeholders, and drive organizational impact.

Responsibilities

• Lead external engagement strategy across government relations, public affairs, development and philanthropy, alumni relations, and community engagement.
• Collaborate with government representatives, donors, Indigenous communities, industry partners, and community leaders to strengthen relationships and advance priorities.
• Oversee fundraising and capital campaigns and foster a culture of engagement and giving across the institution.
• Guide government relations and public relations to elevate the Polytechnic's profile and advocacy efforts.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic planning

Communication

Partnership development

Education

Graduate degree (preferred)

Job description

Position Information

Job Title Executive Director, External Engagement Appointment Type Position Dates Hours per week/FTE 35 About the Position

Lethbridge Polytechnic is one of Alberta’s leading post-secondary institutions, recognized for its career-focused education, applied research, and strong industry partnerships. As Canada’s first publicly funded community college and the only polytechnic south of Calgary, the institution plays a vital role in advancing workforce development, innovation, and economic growth throughout southern Alberta.

Lethbridge Polytechnic is seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to serve as its next Executive Director, External Engagement. Reporting directly to the President, this senior role will lead the institution’s external engagement strategy and play a key role in advancing its reputation, partnerships, influence, and long-term sustainability.

Position Details

The Executive Director will provide leadership across government relations, public affairs, development and philanthropy, alumni relations, and community engagement. The successful candidate will work closely with government representatives, donors, alumni, Indigenous communities, industry partners, and community leaders to strengthen relationships and support the Polytechnic’s strategic priorities.

A key focus of the role will be leading fundraising and philanthropic initiatives, including major gift development and capital campaigns, while fostering a culture of engagement and giving across the institution. The Executive Director will also oversee government relations and public relations strategies that elevate the Polytechnic’s profile and support meaningful advocacy and stakeholder engagement efforts.

Required Qualifications

The ideal candidate will bring at least 10 years of progressive senior leadership experience in external relations, government relations, public affairs, philanthropy, institutional advancement, or a related field. They will possess exceptional relationship‑building, communication, and strategic leadership skills, along with a demonstrated ability to develop partnerships, engage stakeholders, and drive organizational impact. A relevant graduate degree is preferred. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of a growing polytechnic while making a lasting impact on students, communities, and the broader region

Preferred Qualifications

Salary Compensation will include a base salary commensurate with experience and within the salary grid applicable to the position.

Posting Detail Information

Posting Number P26-00695 Open Date 08/21/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes