Head Of Communications And Marketing

Harlo Entertainment is a Toronto-based operator, management and private equity company, delivering value over 30 years of aggregate experience in both the hospitality and entertainment industry. With first-hand insights and perspectives, Harlo Entertainment defines best-in-class, luxury experience and is deeply committed to the highest level of guest satisfaction.
We are a collection of diverse individuals with unique skill sets and subject matter expertise focused on building and scaling ventures. As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work across multiple high-profile, growing brands including Shake Shack Canada, Kasa Moto, MIMI Chinese, Sunnys Chinese, Linny's, The Playbook Commons, Valerie, Roses Social and more. Check out our website to learn more:
We are a people-first culture. We strive to create great outcomes and establish win-win partnerships through integrity, reliability, inclusivity, and great communication. Our greatest asset is our people, as they are the powerhouses behind our outcomes.
Role OverviewWe are looking for a dynamic, creative and experienced
Head of Communications and Marketing
to be part of a growing team who will lead the marketing efforts across our portfolio of restaurant and hospitality brands. This role owns the full growth engine: brand and multi-channel marketing, strategic partnerships, SEO and digital presence, performance analytics, and PR. The ideal candidate uses data to decide where to invest, can lead cross-functional projects such as new openings and concept launches from idea to execution, and is measured on results: traffic, covers, revenue and brand strength.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and own the marketing strategy and budget for each brand in the portfolio, tied to clear traffic, cover and revenue targets.
Oversee the execution of marketing initiatives across all channels (digital, social, email/CRM, in-venue, partnerships and PR) and own the portfolio marketing calendar.
Direct content and creative across social, email and web, holding internal teams and creative partners accountable for quality and each brand's distinct voice.
Manage external partners (creative, PR, paid media, SEO), holding them to clear deliverables and KPIs.
Ensure all materials and activations follow established brand guidelines, and work with leadership to implement approved brand direction.
Maintain quality control across all guest-facing touchpoints and support the rollout of brand standards across new and existing locations.
Data, Digital & Performance
Build and maintain a marketing performance dashboard for each brand (traffic, reservations/covers, guest acquisition cost, ROAS, CRM, social and search) and report regularly to leadership.
Use guest, reservation, sales and campaign data to decide where to invest, what to test and what to stop, and set success metrics for every campaign, partnership and activation before launch.
Oversee SEO and digital presence across all brands (local search, Google Business Profiles, websites, booking paths and online reviews), holding partners accountable for results.
Oversee paid media (search, social, display) and manage spend against ROI targets.
Develop guest segmentation and CRM programs that drive repeat visits and guest lifetime value.
Strategic Projects & Openings
Lead cross-functional projects from ideation through execution, including new openings, concept development and business initiatives.
Lead the marketing and launch plan for every new opening and concept.
Partner with leadership and operations teams to identify and prioritize high-impact opportunities.
Develop project plans, timelines and budgets, and ensure projects are delivered on time and to a high standard.
Act as a central point of coordination across departments to drive alignment and accountability.
Strategic Partnerships
Identify, develop and manage partnerships that drive brand awareness and business growth.
Negotiate and execute collaborations with aligned brands, media, creators and community partners.
Oversee partnership activations from concept through execution, ensuring strong ROI and brand alignment, and report on results.
PR & Communications
Set PR strategy that supports openings, launches and business milestones, and oversee PR partners in execution.
Build and maintain relationships with media, journalists and influencers, and serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries.
Maintain crisis communication plans and manage issues response alongside leadership.
Keep internal teams informed and aligned on key initiatives, campaigns and launches.
Represent the portfolio at industry events, conferences and public forums.
Other duties as assigned.
What Success Looks Like in Year OneWithin the first year, you will have built a clear marketing plan and KPI dashboard for every brand in the portfolio, delivered successful launches for new openings and concepts on time and on budget, grown traffic and covers through data-led campaigns and partnerships with measurable ROI, strengthened organic search and digital presence across all brands, and built a high-performing network of agency and media partners.
Skills and Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
7+ years of experience in public relations, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
Proven track record of successful media relations and PR campaign execution.
Proven track record of executing successful digital and brand marketing campaigns.
Strong copywriting, content planning, and creative direction skills.
Proficiency in social media management tools and analytics platforms (e.G., Hootsuite, Buffer, Sprout Social, Google Analytics).
Excellent communication, collaboration, and project management skills.
Strong crisis management and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to build and maintain relationships with media and key stakeholders.
Experience in the food and beverage industry is a plus.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively with our portfolio teams, cross-functional departments, and stakeholders.
Proficiency in PR analytics and tools
What we offer:
Competitive compensation, including comprehensive benefits, spending account and professional development program.
Opportunity to develop skills and gain experience in multiple disciplines in a fast-paced environment.
Dynamic and fun office culture with colleagues who share the same core values.
Exclusive perks from our portfolio companies.
Unlimited vacation policy.
Harlo Entertainment is an equal opportunity employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital, military and veteran status.
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