Executive Director, External Relations

Alberta University of the Arts; Calgary; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Alberta University of the Arts seeks an Executive Director, External Relations to enhance community engagement and manage relationships with stakeholders. This full-time role focuses on fundraising, public relations, and promoting equity and inclusion within the university.

Qualifications

• 10 years of leadership experience in government relations or public relations.
• Experience with diverse stakeholders including government and donors.

Responsibilities

• Strengthen relationships with government and community stakeholders.
• Oversee philanthropic activities and lead communications and marketing teams.

Skills

Communication

Collaboration

Advocacy

Education

Degree in Public Relations

Master's preferred

Job description

Alberta University of the Arts, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Job Description

Posted Friday, March 28, 2025 at 8:00 AM

Do you believe in the power of ideas, possibility, and in building community?

Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts) is looking for a Executive Director, External Relations to oversee the University’s strategic community engagement.

The Alberta University of the Arts is one of only four major art, craft, and design-focused universities in Canada. Our programs and facilities offer our 1,100 students a hands-on, studio-based education leading to a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Design, and MFA in Craft Media. AUArts has deep roots in Calgary’s creative community, and our alumni impact creativity worldwide. The university will celebrate its centennial in 2026.

This is a full-time, permanent position. Hours are 35 per week, 7 hours daily.

Why AUArts?

AUArts is a community of thinkers, shapers, makers, and risk-takers. We are diverse students, faculty, staff, and alumni, exploring what moves us and seeing the world differently.

Located on the ancestral land of the Siksikaitsitapi - Blackfoot Confederacy, including the Siksika, Kainai, Piikani Nations, and the Tsuut’ina Nation, as well as the Iyarhe Nakoda-Stoney Nations and the Métis Nation of Districts 5 and 6, Calgary’s history is rich and complex.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the President & CEO, the Executive Director, External Relations, will strengthen relationships with government, community stakeholders, alumni, donors, and the public to enhance reputation, secure funding, and advance priorities. This role oversees philanthropic activities and leads communications, marketing, and donor relations teams.

This leadership role includes championing equity, diversity, inclusion, strategic partnerships, and enrollment principles. Key initiatives involve government relations, community and alumni engagement, fundraising, and public relations aligned with the strategic plan.

The Ideal Candidate

The candidate is an innovative, visionary leader with proven success in building relationships, inspiring change, and developing initiatives that focus on people’s success. They excel in communication, collaboration, and working with diverse groups, both inside and outside the university. They have a track record in advancing Indigenous strategies, equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility principles, and promote a culture of continuous improvement and wellness.

Experience and Qualifications:

Candidates should have:

• A degree in public relations, public policy, political science, communications, business, or related fields (master’s preferred).
• At least 10 years of leadership experience in government relations, external affairs, fundraising, or public relations.
• Proven ability in advocacy, engagement, and fundraising strategies.
• Experience with diverse stakeholders, including government, donors, and media.
• Knowledge of public-sector legislation, policies, and Alberta government operations is preferred.
• Experience in lobbying, stakeholder engagement, and working in post-secondary or non-profit sectors is advantageous.

AUArts values inclusion and considers candidates with equivalent qualifications. Priority is given to Canadians and permanent residents.

We are committed to diversity and equal opportunity, encouraging applications from all qualified individuals, including women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and members of minority groups. Support and accommodations are available during recruitment; contact [e-mail] for assistance.