Communications Director- Hiring Pool

Information Session

Please join us for a virtual information session to find out more about the Communications Director position and an opportunity to ask questions. This session will be held on June 8, 2023 at 10:00 am, AST and hosted by Managing Director of Communications Planning.

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Primary Accountabilities

CNS is government’s central communications agency. The Communications Director helps make Nova Scotians aware of and understand what their government is doing and why. This work must be guided by an departmental mandate communications plan.

A creative thinker and collaborator, the Communications Director has extensive experience delivering strategic communications to diverse audiences through digital and traditional channels.  The Communications Director advises and builds relationships with senior officials and colleagues in- and outside of government to develop, implement and evaluate innovative communications strategies.

Leading a team of communications professionals, the Communications Director manages effective delivery of high-quality and inclusive communications in a fast-paced environment while coaching and mentoring others.

Please note, we also have Competition # 39284 - Communication Director which is a designated posting.

Qualifications and Experience

• Post-secondary degree/diploma in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, social/political science, or an acceptable equivalent (see equivalency below)
• Seven (7) years’ recent experience in professional communications/public affairs and/or journalism, or an acceptable equivalent (see equivalency below)
• Significant experience developing and delivering communications strategies, including use of digital channels and analytics and recognition of the need to be accessible and inclusive by design
• Proven success communicating in a complex environment to broad and diverse audiences
• Experience managing people, events, priorities and competing interests
• Experience briefing a Minister, Deputy Minister and/or Senior Executives/Officials for media interviews, committee/special appearances, etc.

Equivalency

Relevant post-secondary degree, diploma, or graduate certificate, plus 7 years of recent professional communications experience.
 

**Definition of professional communications experience = professional writing experience, social media experience, media relations experience, experience interpreting complex information for a public audience, preparing and delivering briefings to senior-level officials.
 

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Assets

• Solid understanding of the public-sector environment
• Leadership experience
• An understanding of Nova Scotia’s unique social, historical and demographic make-up
• French language skills

Benefits

The Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as  Health, Dental, Life Insurance, Pension, General Illness (Short and Long Term), Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. Click here to learn more about our various benefits offerings and eligibility criteria.

Additional Information

This competition will include a two-phased screening approach. Those meeting the qualifications will be required to pass a written test to secure an interview. The interview process will also include the requirement for candidates to do a presentation on a pre-determined topic which will be shared in advance of the interview date.

Reference checks will also be performed.

This is a Term employment opportunity. The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless Career Paths.
• Department Specific Flexible working schedules.