Chief Communications Officer & Associate Vice-President (Communications & Public Affairs)
Carleton University invites applications, nominations and expressions of interest for the position of Chief Communications Officer and Associate Vice-President (Communications and Public Affairs), with the appointment to be effective as early as September 1, 2020. This is an exciting opportunity to lead Carleton’s communications and media relations; public affairs and government relations; as well as design, marketing and branding initiatives in a dynamically changing world context.
Located in Ottawa, Carleton University is a progressive research and teaching institution with a tradition of leading change. Its internationally recognized faculty, staff and researchers provide more than 31,000 full- and part-time Canadian and international students from over 150 countries with academic opportunities in more than 65 degree programs. As an innovative institution, Carleton is uniquely committed to developing solutions to real-world problems by pushing the boundaries of knowledge and understanding. Carleton has long been known as a university that promotes research excellence and connectedness and enjoys partnerships around the globe. With strong leadership over the years, it enjoys a healthy financial position and its proximity to government and cultural institutions, media and a thriving knowledge economy make Carleton and Ottawa a great place to learn and live. Further information may be found at www.carleton.ca.
Reporting to the President and Vice-Chancellor, the Chief Communications Officer and Associate Vice-President (Communications & Public Affairs) will lead an accomplished team of professionals in continuing to enhance Carleton’s provincial, national and international reputation and profile. The AVP will work closely with the President and senior leadership team to provide strategic counsel in all areas of the portfolio. The AVP will build on Carleton’s recent achievements and momentum to effectively communicate Carleton’s successes and aspirations to both internal and external stakeholders.
University Communications at Carleton is a multidisciplinary department that provides the University community with advice, support and strategic direction to enhance Carleton’s reputation for academic excellence, research and exceptional student experience. Supporting and coordinating a growing network of communications professionals in programs, faculties and schools, the department works with the relevant stakeholders at Carleton to lead the development and execution of comprehensive, long-term, strategic and proactive communications, government relations and public affairs, as well as marketing and branding strategies.
A leading communications and public affairs professional, the successful candidate will have significant experience in all areas of the portfolio, with a knowledge of issues, trends and new technologies in higher education, communication and policy. With a wide range of excellent communications and interpersonal skills, the new AVP will be able to effectively interact with media, government, community leaders and internal stakeholders of the University. Candidates will possess outstanding management expertise, the capacity to develop and lead strategic plans, and a demonstrated commitment to team-building, responsive and proactive communications, staff development and stakeholder management.
Carleton University is committed to fostering diversity within its community as a source of excellence, cultural enrichment and social strength. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our University including, but not limited to, women; racialized peoples; First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples; persons with disabilities; and persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. Applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.
The search committee will begin consideration of candidates immediately. Applications should include a letter of interest, curriculum vitae and the names of three references (who will not be contacted without the consent of the candidate) and be submitted electronically, in confidence, to:
Laverne Smith & Associates Inc.