Executive Director, External Engagement

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

Job summary

Lethbridge Polytechnic seeks an Executive Director, External Engagement to lead its external relations strategy and fundraising efforts. The role reports to the President and drives partnerships with government, industry, donors, and communities to advance institutional priorities.

The successful candidate will bring a decade of senior leadership in external relations or philanthropy, with strong communication and stakeholder engagement, and a graduate degree is preferred.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of senior leadership experience in external relations or philanthropy.
• Exceptional relationship-building and strategic leadership skills.
• Ability to develop partnerships and drive institutional impact.

Responsibilities

• Lead the external engagement strategy for Lethbridge Polytechnic.
• Oversee fundraising, capital campaigns, and major gifts.
• Manage government relations, public affairs, and alumni relations to advance strategic priorities.

Skills

External relations

Government relations

Fundraising

Strategic leadership

Partnership development

Education

Graduate degree preferred

Job description

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.

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

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