Job Description
The Stakeholder Engagement Lead will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing strategies and initiatives that foster strong relationships with external stakeholders for the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension (ECWE) Stations, Rail and Systems (SRS) Project. This role ensures effective communication, issue resolution, and proactive engagement with community members, government agencies, utilities, businesses, and other project partners to support project delivery and minimize impacts.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute stakeholder engagement strategies and communication plans tailored to the ECWE SRS Project.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for stakeholders, including residents, businesses, elected officials, government agencies, and community organizations.
- Coordinate with Metrolinx, Infrastructure Ontario, contractors, and project partners to ensure consistent and accurate messaging.
- Lead public consultation activities such as open houses, information sessions, site tours, and workshops.
- Manage the development of project materials including presentations, newsletters, FAQs, fact sheets, and web content.
- Track, document, and respond to stakeholder inquiries, complaints, and issues in a timely and professional manner.
- Monitor and assess stakeholder concerns to identify potential project risks and recommend mitigation strategies.
- Collaborate with internal teams (engineering, construction, environmental, safety, etc.) to ensure stakeholder needs and feedback are incorporated into project planning and delivery.
- Prepare reports, briefings, and updates for senior leadership and project partners.
- Ensure compliance with Metrolinx engagement protocols, municipal requirements, and regulatory obligations.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Political Science, Urban Planning, or related field.
- 7+ years of experience in stakeholder engagement, community relations, public affairs, or related field.
- Experience working on large infrastructure, transit, or government projects is highly desirable.
- Strong knowledge of stakeholder engagement principles, consultation techniques, and conflict resolution strategies.
- Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly.
- Proven ability to build and maintain positive relationships with diverse stakeholder groups.
- Strong organizational and project management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Political acuity, sound judgment, and the ability to navigate sensitive issues.
- Proficiency with MS Office and stakeholder engagement tools/software.