Ideal Candidate: A highly connected media relations professional with agency experience, a deep understanding of the Canadian media landscape, experience with a financial institution or Crown corporation, excellent judgment, and the ability to turn complex business priorities into compelling stories that drive results.
POSITION OVERVIEWBDC, the bank for Canadian entrepreneur.es, is looking for a seasoned media relations professional.
Reporting to the Head of Media Relations, you will lead national media relations initiatives, develop compelling stories, manage issues and provide strategic advice to senior executives. As part of BDC's Strategy team, the Media Relations team acts as a lever for corporate strategy by delivering fully integrated 360° communications - public relations, government relations, stakeholder relations and social media - in collaboration with a cohesive team. As a trusted advisor, you will identify opportunities to increase BDC's visibility, strengthen relationships with key journalists and gain relevant media coverage that supports the organization's business objectives.
This role is for a strategic communicator with excellent media acumen, a strong national network and experience in complex and highly visible environments.
CHALLENGES TO BE MET- Create proactive and reactive media relations strategies that enhance BDC's visibility and reputation on a national scale.
- Develop media angles, media proposals, key messages, briefing materials, Q&A and other communications.
- Build, maintain and engage a strong network of national and regional journalists, publishers and producers across Canada.
- Act as a strategic advisor to the management team and spokespersons on media engagements.
- Identify and obtain media coverage opportunities that advance corporate priorities and thought leadership objectives.
- Collaborate closely with the public relations, government relations, social media, stakeholder and public affairs teams to deliver communications that are fully integrated and directly linked to corporate strategy.
- Lead external communications announcements and initiatives using a 360° approach that reflects how BDC does communications differently: integrated, strategic, and nationally connected.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR - Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, political science or a related field.
- 10 to 15 years of experience in media relations.
- Experience in an agency is strongly desired.
- Experience with a Crown corporation or financial institution is a strong asset.
- Demonstrated track record of gaining high-impact media coverage through proactive approaches and relationship development.
- Extensive network of journalists and media contacts in national, regional, business and specialized media in Canada.
- Demonstrated experience in advising senior executives and members of management.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, in French and English.
- Strategic thinking, 360° perspective, and ability to connect media opportunities to broader corporate and business goals.
- Strong collaboration, resourcefulness and ease working under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
Why BDC- Help shape the national conversation on entrepreneurship, innovation and economic growth.
- To support the media relations efforts of one of Canada's most recognized and influential Crown corporations.
- Work alongside talented communications professionals in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
- Take advantage of flexible work arrangements and the opportunity to make a measurable impact.
