Manager, Communications

CivicInfo BC; Oak Bay; On-site; CAD 111,000 - 128,000; Full time

Job summary

District of Oak Bay is seeking an experienced Manager of Communications for a 12-month term with the possibility of extension. Reporting to the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Communications, our Manager of Communications leads the District's communications efforts, strengthens connections with our community, and ensures residents stay informed and engaged.

The ideal candidate will provide strategic communications support across services, advise Council and staff, oversee digital channels,

Qualifications

• Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field.
• Minimum seven years of relevant experience, preferably in local government.
• A valid BC Driver's Licence and IAP2 certification.

Responsibilities

• Oversee development and implementation of communications strategies, plans and policies that support Council priorities.
• Manage digital communications channels and monitor media for emerging issues.
• Provide expert communications and community engagement advice to Council, senior leadership and staff.
• Support communications across all District services and priorities, including after-hours work as needed.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field

Job description

EXEMPT Temporary, Full-Time (12 months with possible extension)

$111,206.22-$127,544.02 annually (2026 Rates)
$114,987.23-141,273.70 (2027 Rates)

Job Description

We acknowledge and respect that the District of Oak Bay lies in the traditional territory of the lakwal)an people, known today as the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, and that their historic connections to these lands continue to this day.

The District of Oak Bay is a picturesque seaside community located within the Greater Victoria Region, with a population of+18,000. While offering all the amenities of a large metropolitan urban centre, Oak Bay has succeeded in maintaining all the peacefulness and charm of a small community. Residents enjoy an exceptional quality of life, with kilometers of spectacular ocean shoreline, brilliant beaches, parks and greenspace, quaint tree‑lined streets and vibrant, boutique villages just beyond their doorsteps.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced communications professional to join the District of Oak Bay as Manager of Communications for a 12-month term with the possibility of extension. Reporting to the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Communications, our Manager of Communications leads the District's communications efforts, strengthens connections with our community, and ensures residents stay informed and engaged.

In this position you will provide strategic communications support across all District services, initiatives and priorities. You will provide expert communications, issues management and community engagement advice to Council, senior leadership, and staff across the District. Working closely with all departments, you will oversee the development and implementation of communications strategies, plans, and policies that support Council priorities and organizational objectives. You will also oversee digital communications channels, monitor emerging issues and media and help ensure clear, consistent and effective communications both internally and externally, supporting communications efforts outside normal working hours as needed.

As our ideal candidate, you are a collaborative and adaptable communications professional with exceptional written and verbal communication, research, editing, and relationship‑building skills. You bring strong strategic thinking, judgment, and political awareness, with the ability to navigate complex issues and communicate effectively with diverse audiences. Organized, self‑directed, and results‑oriented, you thrive in a fast‑paced environment, balancing multiple priorities while responding to changing organizational needs and can manage competing priorities and work effectively under pressure. Advanced computer skills and demonstrated experience managing websites, social media, and digital communications are essential, along with the ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality, tact, sound judgement, and discretion. We consider previous experience working with local government and other levels of government a strong asset.

Qualified candidates will have a degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field, combined with a minimum of seven (7) years of relevant experience, preferably in local government. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

A valid BC Driver's Licence and IAP2 certification are required.

In addition to a competitive salary, we offer:

• supportive and collaborative work environment
• continued career and professional development opportunities
• employee engagement events
• work-life balance
• a staff recreation membership

An employer of choice, the District of Oak Bay is committed to fostering a culture of empowerment, accountability, and teamwork.

A detailed job description can be found on our website at https://www.oakbay.ca/council-administration/job-openings/ which outlines in greater detail the key accountabilities and required qualifications.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

4:30 p.m. on December 3, 2026.