Director of Communications and Public Affairs

Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week, flexibility in hours of workRate of Pay:47.25 - 57.42 (Starting salary will be determined by factors such as relevant experience, qualifications, internal equity, and market conditions)Reason For Posting: This posting is for a new vacancy.Who We AreAt Good Shepherd, we are committed to providing hope and enhancing dignity and self-determination for individuals and families. To learn more about Good Shepherd, visit our website at opportunity is with our Good Shepherd – AdministrationReporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the Director of Communications and Public Affairs plays a critical leadership role in enhancing Good Shepherd's profile and influence in Hamilton, Toronto and Niagara. This role leads the development and execution of comprehensive communications strategies, government relations, and media engagement, ensuring that all messaging reflects the organization's mission, vision, and values.This is a dynamic leadership opportunity to help shape organizational voice, strengthen public partnerships, and support funding and advocacy efforts. The Director will lead a small communications team while working closely with senior leadership, community and government partners to advance Good Shepherd's strategic priorities.How You Will Make an ImpactWith a demonstrated commitment to the values of Responsibility, Availability, Adaptability, Quality, Hospitality, and Dignity, you will:Lead all internal and external communications across Good Shepherd Centres and Good Shepherd Non-Profit HomesDevelop and implement integrated communications strategies to enhance organizational visibility and public perceptionOversee media relations, media strategy, and issues management, including acting as spokesperson when appropriateLead crisis communications planning and execution to mitigate reputational riskAdvise the CEO and senior leadership on communications strategy and messagingEstablish and maintain relationships with municipal, provincial, and federal government interest holdersCollaborate in the development and implementation of advocacy strategies aligned with Good Shepherd's mission and broader health and human services prioritiesMonitor legislative and policy developments and provide strategic insights to leadershipSupport funding access through strategic government engagement and relationship-buildingLead and mentor the communications team, including performance management and professional developmentBuild and maintain relationships with media, community partners, funders, and internal interest holdersIdentify and lead grant opportunities, including proposal development, grant writing, and program evaluation reportingDevelop and manage the communications budget and oversee vendor and consultant relationshipsEnsure all communications are culturally competent, respectful, and aligned with anti-racist and anti-oppression frameworksRepresent Good Shepherd at external meetings, events, and community engagementsEnsure compliance with applicable regulations, policies, and organizational standardsParticipate in Good Shepherd's Health and Safety programs and comply with the Occupational Health and Safety ActWhat You'll Bring to Our TeamBachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Political Science, Journalism, or a related field (Master's degree preferred)Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in communications, public relations, and/or government relationsMinimum 5 years of leadership experience, including supervising and developing teamsDemonstrated experience in government relations within Canada, with strong understanding of municipal, provincial, and federal systemsExperience in the non-profit sector, preferably within healthcare or social servicesProven ability to develop and execute strategic communications plansStrong writing, editing, and storytelling skills across diverse audiencesExperience managing media relations and crisis communicationsStrong relationship-building skills with executives, government officials, media, and community partnersDemonstrated leadership, coaching, and team development capabilitiesStrong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage competing prioritiesExperience with grant writing and program evaluation reportingProficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and digital communication toolsExperience with social media strategy, content management systems, and digital platformsValid Ontario driver's license and ability to travel across Hamilton, Niagara, and TorontoFlexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends as requiredDemonstrated commitment to anti-racism, anti-oppression, and cultural competenceAssets:Bilingual (French/English)Familiarity with CARF accreditation standardsKnowledge of homelessness, mental health, addiction, and social services sectorsWorking ConditionsPrimarily office-based with hybrid flexibilityRegular travel required across Good Shepherd locations in Hamilton, Niagara, and TorontoOccasional evening and weekend hours for events, meetings, and crisis responseFast-paced environment with competing priorities and tight deadlinesMay encounter service users experiencing mental health challenges, substance use, or crisis situationsWhat We OfferBe a part of a caring TEAM THAT SUPPORTS OUR LOCAL COMMUNITYSupport for continuing EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTStaff recognition programs along with access to self-care supports and EMPLOYEE FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP)A POSITIVE and ENCOURAGING workplace cultureOpportunities to make a meaningful impact and provide HOPEExtended health benefitsJoin our team and be part of a group that values hard work, dedication, and the importance of maintaining a positive environment for everyoneGood Shepherd, a ministry of the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God, is an equal opportunity employer operating within an anti-racist and anti-oppression framework. We strive to establish workplaces that reflect and are enhanced by the rich diversity of the community we serve.Good Shepherd welcomes and encourages applications from all people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. If you need accommodations, please contact Human Resources at .

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