Current Postings

City of Surrey

The Director, Communications & Engagement


The City of Surrey is one of the fastest growing and culturally diverse cities in Canada.  Recognized as a top employer, we are dedicated to building a vibrant, progressive, world-class city that enhances the quality of life for our citizens, while delivering meaningful and rewarding career opportunities for our employees. As one of the fastest growing cities in Canada, City of Surrey is a globally recognized leader in building vibrant, sustainable communities through technology and innovation. City of Surrey employees are talented innovators, inspired by meaningful work and the opportunity to drive our city— and their careers—forward. Build a City. Build a Future.

SCOPE
The Director, Communications & Engagement is a transformative leadership role responsible for shaping and executing the City’s comprehensive communication and engagement strategies to enhance its reputation, foster positive employee experiences, and drive stakeholder engagement. Reporting to the General Manager, Corporate Services, the Director oversees a multifaceted portfolio encompassing internal and external communications, employee and public engagement, brand management, marketing, media relations, senior leadership counsel, and organizational change communications. A key aspect of the role is to provide strategic direction in aligning communications functions from various business areas into one cohesive division, fostering collaboration, synergy, and a shared sense of purpose. The ideal candidate brings a proven track record of leadership in senior communications roles with expertise in organizational change management, exceptional strategic thinking and communication skills, ability to cultivate strong relationships both internally and externally and a commitment to driving positive change.

EMPLOYMENT STATUS
Regular Full‐time – Exempt
 
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop and execute comprehensive communication and engagement strategies that align with the City’s organizational goals and objectives.
  • Oversee a multifaceted portfolio encompassing internal and external communications, employee and public engagement, brand management, marketing, media relations, senior leadership counsel, and organizational change communications.
  • Drive positive organizational change, leading and engaging employees during times of transition, fostering understanding, buy‐in and alignment with the City’s strategic direction.
  • Develop and implement programs to foster employee engagement, promote a positive organizational culture, and strengthen relationships with internal stakeholders.
  • Lead efforts to enhance the City’s reputation and brand identity, including overseeing marketing campaigns and promotional activities to raise awareness and drive engagement.
  • Provide strategic guidance and support to senior leadership on communication, engagement, and organizational change matters.
  • Champion DEI initiatives, embedding principles of equity and belonging into all aspects of communication and engagement.
  • Serve as a visionary leader, leading and mentoring a team of communication professionals, inspiring them to embrace a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
 
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor’s degree in communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field.
  • 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in communications roles, with a proven track record of driving impactful results and navigating complex organizational dynamics, preferably in a public sector or large organizational setting.
  • Exceptional strategic thinking and the ability to translate vision into actionable plans and initiatives.
  • Deep understanding of diverse communication channels and emerging trends in the field.
  • Strong business acumen and a passion for driving organizational change, innovation, and continuous improvement.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence and inspire stakeholders at all levels.
  • Experience working effectively with senior leadership and serving as a trusted advisor on communication, engagement, and organizational change matters.
  • A collaborative mindset and proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to achieve shared goals.
  • A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a demonstrated ability to champion related initiatives.
 
OTHER INFORMATION
Annual Salary: $179,115 ‐ $210,723

Destinationone Consulting has been retained for this recruitment process. To learn more or to apply for this opportunity, visit https://kgoci.zohorecruit.com/jobs/destinationone-Consulting-Careers/440612000061021001/Director-Communications-Engagement?source=CareerSite

All applications received by the City will be forwarded to Destinationone for review and processing.

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

www.surrey.ca/careers