Opportunities Communications Director

Nova Scotia is rich in natural resources including biodiversity forests geological resources provincial parks and the land we manage. The Department of Natural Resources is responsible for the development management conservation and protection of forest mineral parks and wildlife resources and the administration of the provinces Crown land. Together we are working with Nova Scotians to build a better future through sustainable natural resource management as we all benefit from the natural health and wealth of the province.

At the NS Provincial Government our communications team collaborates across various departments to ensure our messages programs and initiatives are informed by thorough research and resonate with the diverse needs of our communities. We dont just accept differences we celebrate and foster a culture of diversity and belonging. We are committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives and experiences are not only welcomed but valued. We invite applications from individuals who are passionate about promoting equity diversity inclusion and accessibility (EDIA) in their work.

This opportunity provides advice/support to senior leadership with the department of Natural Resources in decision-making and strategic priority setting by providing policy legal communications and labour relations advice.

The Communications Director will provide senior level strategic communication planning and advice and help build public awareness and understanding of government and departmental initiatives. They will have a strong background in developing and implementing modern communication strategies with a focus on developing and integrating content across a range of digital platforms.

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.

The Communications Director manages effective delivery of high-quality and inclusive communications in a fast1paced environment. They may be required to coach and mentor a team of skilled communicators in a supportive environment focused on continuous learning and innovation.

As Communications Director you will:

• Lead strategic communications planning and delivery aligning with departmental priorities and government1wide initiatives across digital print media marketing and stakeholder channels.

• Serve as a key advisor to Ministers and/or Deputy Ministers and government senior leaders providing

• Counsel on complex and high-profile internal and external communications issues.

• Anticipate emerging issues and navigate crises with speed and clarity providing expert support on matters affecting public safety health and government credibility.

• Collaborate across departments and with the Executive Council Premiers Office and central communications teams to coordinate unified government messaging.

• Represent communications perspectives in executive decision-making influencing policy through strategic insights on public perception risk and reputation management.

• Manage communication projects and campaigns from idea to impact ensuring timely delivery responsible budgeting and measurable outcomes.

• Integrate digital strategy evidence-based marketing media relations and stakeholder engagement into communication planning that shifts attitudes improves understanding and influences behaviour.

• Guide internal communications and organizational change messaging that builds transparency and employee engagement across the department.

You have a complete post-secondary education in communications public relations journalism marketing or another related field along with several years of experience developing and delivering communications addition to this you have experience in:

• Managing people events priorities and competing interests

• Briefing Senior Executives/Officials for media interviews committee/special appearances etc.

• Developing and implementing multi-channel communications strategies (digital marketing media internal comms crisis comms etc.) for diverse audiences.

You also have:

• A strong understanding of government processes and public policy

• Exceptional interpersonal skills ability to collaborate across departments and advise with tact and clarity.

• A track record of making sound timely decisions in uncertain or complex situations.

• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills

• An understanding of the evolving media landscape and digital engagement tools with a lens toward innovation accessibility and impact.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination standardized tests oral presentations interview(s) and reference checks.

We recognize equivalent combinations of training education and experience providing opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

**Definition of professional communications experience professional writing experience digital content creation media relations experience experience interpreting complex information for a public audience preparing and delivering briefings to senior-level officials including experience with traditional and emerging digital-first communications strategies and data-driven storytelling.

• Normal work week is 35 hours/week 7 hours/day.

• Will be required to work outside business hours from time to time.

• High concentration of demands and priorities.

• Pressures to meet deadlines with attention to accuracy.

• Majority of time is spent in a comfortable office setting with frequent opportunity to move

This competition is being leveraged to fill a full-time 2 year term opportunity with the Department of Natural Resources.

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.

• 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 forward1thinking policies and strategies.

• Countless Career Paths.

• A dynamic client-focused office environment where service excellence and teamwork are our focus