Manager, Communications and Programs

Atlantic Canada; Nova Scotia; On-site; CAD 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in the aerospace and defense sector seeks a Manager, Communications and Programs. This permanent, full-time position requires expertise in crafting strategic communication strategies, stakeholder engagement, and managing multi-channel campaigns. Ideal candidates have a background in communications or marketing, with a strong emphasis on copywriting and engagement strategies, promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in a similar role.
• Experience managing multi-channel communications and marketing campaigns.
• Bilingual French/English is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of communication strategies.
• Draft funding proposals and prepare reports for stakeholders.
• Conduct marketing research and monitor key industry trends.

Skills

Copywriting

Communication

Stakeholder Engagement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, or related discipline

Tools

Canva

Job description

The Atlantic Canada Aerospace and Defence Association (ACADA) leads, connects, and champions a diverse, dynamic membership in a world-leading region of aerospace and defence (A&D).

We support, connect, and promote a diverse and dynamic membership committed to delivering industry-leading A&D solutions to the world. Through custom services and programming in direct response to market needs, we help our 170+ members and our region innovate future potential for positive global impact.

JOB OVERVIEW:
The Manager, Communications and Programs will play a key role in shaping and executing the organization’s communication strategies while supporting membership engagement, event promotion, and stakeholder relations. They will be responsible for crafting clear and compelling messaging for organizational programs, ensuring consistency across all communication channels. Additionally, they will oversee public relations efforts, coordinate responses to media inquiries, and develop press releases, while supporting the CEO in external representation. This role also involves maintaining effective communication platforms, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives, and collaborating with internal teams to enhance outreach and engagement.

In addition to communications, this position will take primary responsibility for drafting funding proposals, ensuring strategic alignment with funding priorities, and preparing reports for funders and stakeholders while adhering to contractual obligations and deadlines. Will be a key player in the sales strategy to support and facilitate sponsorships. They will also conduct market research, track industry trends, and monitor key issues to refine communications strategies. The Manager, Communications and Programs will work closely with leadership to develop structured communication frameworks, ensuring effective messaging deployment for various programs, projects, and initiatives. With a blend of strategic oversight and hands-on execution, this role is ideal for a communications professional who thrives in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The responsibilities of the Manager, Communications and Programs include (but are not limited to):

Communications & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Lead the development and execution of communication strategies to enhance visibility, engagement, and outreach.
• Support membership engagement and event strategies by ensuring aligned messaging, promotion, and communication materials.
• Oversee public relations and government relations initiatives, ensuring consistency in messaging and brand positioning.
• Manage stakeholder mapping efforts, maintain strong relationships, and respond to inquiries.
• Develop and maintain internal communications policies to enhance consistency and effectiveness.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, coordinating responses and messaging, and develop press releases while supporting the CEO in their role as the organization’s official media representative.
• Oversee communication platforms (website, social media, email marketing) to optimize engagement.
• Work closely with the Member Relations Manager on the sales strategy for annual and event sponsorship opportunities.

Program Messaging & Communications Strategy:

• Develop clear, compelling messaging for organizational programs and projects, ensuring effective communication to stakeholders and members.
• Establish structured communication frameworks that outline key messages, delivery methods, and engagement strategies for program outreach.
• Ensure program guidelines and key details are accurately communicated and accessible to relevant audiences.
• Assist in drafting reports and presentations summarizing program updates and stakeholder engagement metrics.
• Ensure industry and stakeholder sponsorship opportunities are aligned with overall organizational strategy.
• Draft funding proposals, ensuring clear and compelling messaging, while working with the CEO and Director of Operations and Business Development to align content with strategic funding priorities.
• Prepare reports and updates for funders and stakeholders, ensuring clear, well-structured communication to align with organizational priorities, while meeting deadlines and fulfilling contractual reporting requirements.
• Provide regular reports and updates to the CEO, funders, and the Board of Directors on key initiatives.
• Support the CEO in preparing presentations and reports for board meetings and strategic initiatives.

Research & Strategic Insights:

• Conduct regular marketing research, media scans, and issues monitoring to inform communications strategies.
• Identify key industry trends and stakeholder concerns to adapt organizational messaging accordingly.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, or a related discipline
  5+ years experience in a similar role.
• Demonstrated experience managing muti-channel communications and marketing campaigns and content.
• Exceptional copywriting and editing abilities.
• Knowledge and understanding of graphic design, layout, and publishing; experience working in Canva considered an asset.
• Demonstrated experience reporting to Boards of Directors and Government on Provincial and Federal levels, especially in the areas of funding and/or industry association representation.
• Experience with media relations considered an asset
• Experience in non-profit/government funded associations considered an asset.
• Bilingual French/English considered an asset.

This is a permanent, full-time position. The candidate must be based in Nova Scotia. Interested applicants should submit their resume and a cover letter highlighting their experience and interest in the role.

Salary range for the position is $65,000 – $80,000 per year.

CELEBRATING DIVERSITY
ACADA strives for an inclusive work environment that celebrates and encourages diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging whereby individuals are recognized, supported, and respected. We have zero tolerance for bullying and harassment in the workplace and are committed to achieving a work environment where all employees are respected as individuals and valued without regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or status. All candidates who feel they can meet the expectations listed above are encouraged submit their resume and cover letter.

While we thank all applicants for their interest, only those under consideration will be contacted.