We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic External Communications & Media Relations Lead to join our client's team in a hybrid capacity. In this role, you will be responsible for providing strategic planning, coordination, and execution for external corporate communications, advocacy, media relations, crisis communications, and brand reputation management. This role blends advanced tactical execution with high-level strategy, including the leadership and professional development of a team of direct reports.

Location: North York, VPC Hybrid Schedule: In office Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday; WFH Wednesday and Friday Travel: Occasional travel to other offices (a drivers abstract will be required for this position)

Responsibilities External Communications & Advocacy Lead external communications, engagement, and advocacy plans to support overarching business objectives. Research, write, edit, and distribute communications products such as news releases, advisories, speeches, and key messages. Develop and execute communication strategies to address emerging issues, protect the organization's reputation, and mitigate inherent risks. Create and execute comprehensive communication strategies throughout project lifecycles for capital expansion, maintenance, and business development initiatives. Manage project budgets related to external communications and advocacy. Media Relations Develop and deliver proactive media relations strategies for business initiatives, including media pitches, letters to the editor, and opinion editorials. Build and maintain strong relationships with reporters and editors across served communities. Assess and respond to incoming media enquiries, determine appropriate spokespeople, develop key messages, and prepare executives for interviews. Interact with local and national media outlets to promote the brand, advance initiatives, and defend corporate reputation during unanticipated incidents. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Relationships Build collaborative working relationships across internal business units, providing strategic advice and issue briefs to support public alignment on critical business initiatives. Partner with external vendors, industry partners, and municipal representatives to develop paid digital campaigns and coordinate public messaging. Team Leadership & Crisis Communications Provide leadership, coaching, and development to a team of direct reports, establishing clear governance, processes, and accountabilities. Support the emergency response organization from a crisis communications perspective as an ICS-trained Public Information Officer with rotational on-call responsibilities. Review external communications (presentations, customer letters, marketing materials) to safeguard sensitive proprietary information and maintain brand integrity.

Requirements Experience: 7 to 10 years of progressive experience in a public affairs environment or external communications role, encompassing media relations, issues management, advocacy, and crisis communications. Industry Knowledge: Strong understanding of the media landscape within a regulated industry (such as energy, utility, or infrastructure) and its related policy, social, and economic environments. Spokesperson & Communication Skills: Superior writing skills and outstanding presentation/influence capabilities, with direct experience acting as an official company spokesperson. Core Competencies: Confident judgment, high integrity, and the proven ability to deliver under tight deadlines, handle ambiguity, and manage high-pressure situations. Technical Savviness: Demonstrated comfort utilizing emerging AI tools and technologies to enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and support data-informed decision-making. Mobility: Ability to travel within Ontario and provide a valid drivers abstract. Professional communication accreditation (e.g., IABC-ABC or equivalent). Prior experience working within a public relations agency. Proven capacity to prioritize effectively and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously. Ability to thrive in a fast, results-driven environment while maintaining a long-term strategic perspective.

If you are a visionary communications professional looking to lead critical corporate narratives and shape strategic advocacy, we encourage you to apply today! Please submit your resume detailing your relevant experience and how you can contribute to our client's success.

Note: This posting is for existing and upcoming vacancies.

Cella by Randstad Digital uses artificial intelligence to help our recruiters screen, assess and select qualified talent for this role and others within our database. Although Cella by Randstad Digital uses A.I. as a tool, candidate selection and hiring decisions are made by our employees.