Manager, Communications - Closing August 12, 2026

Port Hope is a uniquely attractive place to work, highlighted by the future development of potentially the world's largest nuclear plant, which promises cutting-edge infrastructure and economic stability. This diversification into nuclear energy complements the area's strong economic base in agriculture and manufacturing, securing a stable job market. Employees will engage with advanced technology and industry experts, enhancing professional development. The community's warmth promotes work-life balance, supported by cultural festivals and heritage sites. Proximity to Toronto/GTA provides urban access, while the area's natural beauty invites outdoor recreation. High-quality education and healthcare, low crime rates, and a commitment to environmental sustainability make Port Hope an exceptional place to live and work, fostering both professional and personal growth.

The Manager, Communications is responsible for providing strategic direction and oversight of the planning, creation, and delivery of a variety of internal and external communications, including, but not limited to media relations, issues management, crisis communications, advertising, digital content, brand alignment, public education and Mayor and Council communications. 

Benefits and Perks

• Employer paid Group Health, Dental and Life Insurance after three months of employment
• OMERS Pension Plan from the date of hire
• Professional Development and Skill Based Training Opportunities
• Alternate Work Arrangements
• Wellness, Social and Staff Ambassador Committees
• Employee and Family Assistance Plan
• Perks and Savings Partnerships

Compensation
$93,838 - $109,778 per annum (compensation is currently under review)

Qualifications

• University degree in  Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing or related field. 
• Minimum of seven (7) years progressive experience in a communications role, journalism or public relations; experience working within the broader public sector would be an asset.  

Responsibilities

• Provides strategic leadership, support, planning, and management of all communications, engagement, and overall business priorities in alignment with municipal policies and procedures.  
• Drives positive perception of the Municipality with the community through the development, planning and oversight of proactive communications and public education campaigns.  
• Oversees creative design, advertising, video production, photography, and digital content. Ensures all communication materials are developed in accordance with the branding guidelines and are reviewed for accuracy and readability..  
• Creates communication plans for major initiatives or issues management, including media monitoring, briefing notes, speech writing and presentation materials.  
• Monitors and tracks progress of assigned communications requirements to ensure delivery, budgets and timelines are met, and risks/issues are proactively addressed. 
• Provides oversight and review of metrics to evaluate effectiveness of communications strategies quarterly and oversees reporting of metrics to departments.  
• Identifies new trends in communications and marketing practices; develops new policies and guidelines for the implementation of new communications and marketing initiatives 
• Acts as expert resource for leaders and corporate teams in the development, creation, and implementation of their communication requirements that educate and inform the community. 
• Attends Council, Committee of the Whole, and – as required - Special Council meetings, and prepares strategic briefing materials, including backgrounders, speaking notes, and speeches, demonstrating strong judgment, political acuity, and advanced communications expertise to support the Mayor and Council. 
• Demonstrates an understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and their applications in communications, including content development, citizen engagement, and process optimization. Ensures all AI-assisted content adheres to municipal standards for accuracy, accessibility, privacy, and transparency. Initiates and maintains positive professional relationships with the media and oversee all aspects of media relations including placing feature articles in the media, coordinating media relations campaigns and crisis communications e.g. crisis response and general risk communications. 
• Demonstrates positive leadership through the supervision of staff, including hiring, directing/guiding work assignments, performance management, coaching, identifying and implementing professional development, absence management, motivating and empowering staff.  
• Prepares and submits the annual capital and operating budgets for the Communications Division in consultation with the CAO.  
• Acts as the Municipality’s Emergency Information Officer when the Emergency Operations Centre is activated, and leading and coaching emergency communications for staff and Council, when required.  
• Adheres to high standards of ethical behaviour and demonstrates their understanding that their personal actions impact the public’s perception of the Municipality. 
• Performs other duties as assigned by the CAO or designate.  

Skills and Abilities

• Expert knowledge of strategic communications planning, media relations, public engagement, and crisis communication 
• Excellent verbal communication skills including courtesy, tact, discretion, explanation, persuasion, interpretation, negotiation, judgment and presentation skills. 
• Excellent written communication skills including flexible writing style to meet the varied requirements of the work and medium being used; ability to translate technical and complex information into plain language for diverse audiences.  
• High level of knowledge and proficiency in use of MS Word, PowerPoint,  website management, social media platforms.  Experience in, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, HTML, Graphic Design, Web design or Print production is an asset. 
• Organization and time management skills, including ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure. 
• High degree of professionalism, political astuteness and interpersonal skills. 

Other

• Valid and satisfactory ‘G’ drivers license and access to own vehicle. 
• Valid and satisfactory Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check. 
• Office environment with some requirement to work hours outside of normal schedule. 
• Availability to attend evening and/or weekend meetings or other events as required.  
• Some travel required. 
• Regular interruptions, competing priorities and time sensitive deadlines. 

Submit an Application
Please submit your cover letter and resume online at  Careers - Municipality of Port Hope by Wednesday August 12, 2026. Interviews may be scheduled in advance of the closing date. 

Recruitment Process

The Municipality of Port Hope is a progressive employer who believes a diverse and inclusive workplace strengthens the team and fosters an environment where everyone feels as though they belong and their dignity, beliefs and identity are respected.

We are committed to creating and sustaining an environment that provides a supportive workplace and equal opportunity for all employees. Accommodations can be requested throughout the recruitment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

Applications will be reviewed, and interviews may be scheduled prior to the job posting closing date. All applicants will receive an automated email confirming the submission of their application, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be further contacted by Human Resources.

Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the Municipal Act, as amended.