Director, Public Affairs Jobs

NATIONAL Atlantic is seeking a curious, driven, strategic communicator to join their Public Affairs team in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The ideal candidate will want to contribute to exciting and dynamic work, throughout Atlantic Canada and across our national network.

NATIONAL supports clients across sectors, delivering a range of strategic communications services, including government relations and advocacy, issues and crisis management, corporate communications, public engagement, and media coaching.

Headquartered in Halifax, NATIONAL Atlantic is an award-winning, full-service marketing and communications agency. You will often find our team at the center of initiatives and issues that are shaping the future of our region. With nine offices from coast to coast—three of which are in Atlantic Canada—and our sister agencies in the AVENIR GLOBAL network, one of the largest communication firms in the world, we have access to clients and talent from across the globe. In Atlantic Canada alone, we have a deep bench, with teams specializing in public affairs, research, creative, marketing and web development.

Requirements

• This individual is purpose-driven and motivated to make a difference in their community, province, and region.
• They will consistently provide exceptional work for clients in the areas of government relations and advocacy, strategic communications, issues and crisis management, media and stakeholder relations.
• The ideal person will be comfortable in complex situations, able to work with senior levels of client organizations, and to serve as a consultant on complex, often ambiguous, situations.
• They are proactive –anticipating client issues and opportunities. They will be an active contributor to our internal culture.
• This person will need an entrepreneurial mindset and be able to bring new ideas and services to clients, and as well as collaborate to do the same within the AVENIR GLOBAL network of companies.
• They have a deep understanding and interest in government and public policy and are adept at building relationships.
• We look for people who have an integrated mindset; people who will work to understand the nature of a problem before proposing a solution and will bring integrated solutions when it makes sense to solving the problem.

Candidate Profile

• Ability to set and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to clearly express thoughts and opinions through written and verbal communications and presentations. This person should be a compelling writer and an articulate and persuasive overall communicator.
• Exceptional teamwork and collaboration skills
• Post-secondary degree in a related field such as public relations, political science, business administration, or public administration
• Ability to manage account teams with a high standard of service
• At least 10 years of experience in a related role, with a demonstrated ability to design, execute and manage communications strategies (agency experience is considered an asset)
• Knowledge of government, media, and industry, including the Atlantic business community
• Strong client focus and relationship management skills

Responsibilities

Client Service

• Manage complex issues, projects, and programs
• Lead and/or assist in the development and execution of communications strategies that are grounded in research and insights
• Provide senior-level strategic counsel and support
• Ensure quality control for finished product delivery
• Manage key account teams and projects, ensuring quality, timely delivery to clients
• Work collaboratively across the Atlantic office and our network to ensure the best possible outcomes for clients
• Set and manage budgets, as well as prepare invoices and budget control reports

New Business

• Be a key driver in growing our Public Affairs service offering in Atlantic Canada and the overall presence of the firm
• Market their specialized knowledge/expertise/capabilities through appropriate channels
• Everyone at NATIONAL has a responsibility for contributing to business development initiatives, which include regular client planning, identifying external opportunities, pursuing leads, thought leadership, writing proposals, and contributing to RFP development.
• Build and maintain a robust professional network
• Contribute to or lead thought leadership initiatives
• Attend networking events and represent the Firm
• Lead and/or participate in “best teams” –clusters of experts who are continuously evaluating and innovating their tools and approach.
• Enthusiastically educate clients about the products and services of the Firm

Team and People Management

• Participate in recruitment and onboarding efforts
• Set and achieve high performance expectations which are motivating and results-oriented
• Contribute to our culture of creating an environment where people do the best work of their careers, for clients who feel the impact
• Create and sustain a dynamic work environment through enthusiasm and open communication
• Distribute and supervise workload among more junior team members
• Provide guidance and contribute to the professional development of individuals within the Public Affairs team
• Build client teams, which may include the identification of experts from across our network

Up for a new challenge?

• We thank you for your interest in NATIONAL, however, only candidates considered for an interview will be contacted.
• NATIONAL is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. We value diversity and creating an inclusive culture where everyone can bring their true selves to work. We are committed as a company to equitable practices and policies that encourage a diverse workforce and work environment. If you require a special accommodation, please advise the Human Resources Manager during the hiring process.
• Please submit a resume.