Director, Communications (Hiring Pool)

                                                                                                           

 

Competition # : 46773 

Department: Executive Council

Location: HALIFAX

Type of Employment: Permanent

Union Status: Exclusion - Non Union - NSPG 

Closing Date: 29-Aug-25  (Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time)

Hiring Process

This competition process will be used to create a hiring pool to fill both an immediate opportunity with the Executive Council Office (ECO), as well as future term and permanent Communications Director roles within the Province of Nova Scotia and its many Departments. Successful candidates who pass the interview process will be eligible for hire as additional vacancies become available (up to 1 year).

About Us

 

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 don't 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.

The immediate Communications Director opportunity is with the Executive Council Office (ECO). The Executive Council Office (ECO) provides central leadership to achieve government priorities and support for executive leadership. It supports the Premier, Executive Council (Cabinet) and its Committees in decision-making and strategic priority setting by providing policy, legal, communications, and labour relations advice.

About Our Opportunity

 

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 fast-paced 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 government-wide 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, Premier’s 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 communi