Job Description
The Director, Public Affairs and Communications will play an integral role in the development and execution of integrated public affairs and communications strategies that support our mission to enhance the quality of life for Canadians. This role will be instrumental in shaping the organization's voice across the healthcare and homecare landscapes, influencing public policy, and strengthening relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, teams and partners. This role will actively work across the communications (internal and external), government relations, stakeholder engagement, and issues management teams to help tell the Bayshore HealthCare story.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership
Work with the team to develop and execute comprehensive public affairs and communications strategies aligned with Bayshore HealthCare's objectives and values.
Work with the team to monitor and anticipate trends in the healthcare and political landscape to inform proactive positioning and advocacy.
Work with the team as a trusted advisor on public affairs and communications matters.
Work with the team to collaborate across departments to ensure alignment of communications, messaging and advocacy efforts, while proactively managing issues and opportunities that impact Bayshore HealthCare's strategic goals.
Media & Communications
Collaborate with internal and external communications teams to ensure strategic, effective, consistent messaging is utilized across all channels.
Work with team on media relations, including proactive media outreach, issues management, and crisis communications.
Work with the team to support internal communications initiatives that align with public affairs and Bayshore HealthCare priorities.
Issues & Reputation Management
Work with the team to identify, assess, and manage emerging issues that may impact Bayshore HealthCare.
Develop and implement response strategies, including key messages, Q&As, and stakeholder outreach as needed.
Content & Thought Leadership
Work with the team to develop high-impact content including position papers, op-eds, speeches, presentations, and briefing notes.
Support thought leadership opportunities in innovation, healthcare and homecare policy.
Government Relations
Work with the team to build strong relationships with all related government entities.
Work with the team to support communication materials to drive positive policy initiatives in home and community care, seniors' care, and broader healthcare system improvements.
Work with the team on the development of government submissions, briefing materials, and policy recommendations as needed.
Stakeholder Engagement
Work with the team to foster collaborative relationships with healthcare associations, patient advocacy groups, industry partners, and community organizations.
Represent Bayshore at external forums, roundtables, and industry events to advance strategic priorities as needed.
Team & Budget Management
Provide leadership and mentorship to a high-performing team.
Manage departmental budgets, external consultants, and performance metrics to ensure accountability and impact.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
Reports to: Executive Director, Public Relations and Communications
Direct Reports: 4
Work Location : Bayshore Healthcare, National Office, Mississauga ON
Hybrid - At least 3 days onsite weekly
Qualifications
Education
• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Public Policy, Political Science, Communications, Health Administration, or a related field.
• Master's degree in a relevant discipline is considered a strong asset.
Experience
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in public affairs, government relations, or strategic communications.
• Experience in the healthcare sector or a regulated industry is highly preferred.
• Proven track record of influencing public policy and managing complex stakeholder environments.
Other Skills and Abilities
• Exceptional strategic thinking and political acumen.
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, including experience with media and public speaking.
• Demonstrated ability to problem-solve, manage sensitive issues with discretion and sound judgment.
• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Bilingualism (English/French) is an asset.
