Altis Recruitment is delighted to partner with a client in the broader public sector to recruit a Manager, Governance and Communications on a permanent basis in Whitby, ON.

This role will support senior leadership, ensuring effective governance, and driving alignment between strategic objectives and operational execution. The Manager will oversee a large and diverse communications team, manage board service functions, and foster engagement with internal and external stakeholders.

This is a high-impact role requiring a proven leader with expertise in both communications and governance. The successful candidate will bring strong presence, exceptional relationship-building skills, and the ability to lead through influence and collaboration in a dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, inspire, and develop a large, diverse communications and board services team, including managing a team across union and non-union groups.
• Provide mentorship, guidance, and stability to a team.
• Cultivate a collaborative and supportive culture that values creativity, accountability, and growth.
• Lead the design and implementation of a multi-channel communications framework and public affairs strategy to advance organizational priorities.
• Oversee media relations, public engagement, branding, and digital communications, including social media, video production, and web content.
• Develop and manage crisis communication strategies and issues management plans.
• Advise and coach senior leaders, trustees, and staff to be effective, credible communicators.
• Build strong relationships with government officials, community leaders, and stakeholders to support organizational goals.
• Drive a culture of transparency, equity, and inclusion through all communication initiatives.
• Provide governance and procedural support to the Board of Trustees and its committees, including preparation of agendas, minutes, reports, and by-law compliance.
• Advise the Chair, Vice Chair, and committee leaders on governance procedures and practices.
• Oversee organizational and governance meetings, including trustee elections and orientation programs for new trustees.
• Collaborate with legal and policy teams on governance, privacy, and procedural matters.
• Develop systems to track motions, decisions, and committee mandates.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Minimum of 5 years of senior leadership experience in communications, governance, or public affairs at an executive level.
• Proven ability to manage large, complex teams across union and non-union environments.
• Strong understanding of governance models, board processes, and parliamentary procedures.
• Experience people managing in government, broader public sector or non-profit sectors required.
• Demonstrated expertise in strategic communications, including media relations, digital communications, crisis management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills with the ability to influence at the senior leadership and governance levels.
• Knowledge of budget planning and vendor/contract management.
• Commitment to Indigenous rights, human rights, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Post-secondary education in communications, public policy, governance, or a related discipline.
• At least 10 years of progressive leadership experience with a minimum of 5 years at the executive/senior management level.
• Experience working with trustees, directors, superintendents, or senior governance bodies is highly desirable.

We’re an equal opportunity employer committed to increasing diversity and inclusion in today’s workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Minorities, women, LGBTQ candidates, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. If you require an accommodation, please review our accessibility policy and reach out to our accessibility officer with any questions.