THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF OAKVILLE
JOB POSTING
POSITION ID: 1255-004
CALL NO. 26-4782
Job Designation: Senior Communications Advisor
Department: Communications and Customer Experience
Job Details: Permanent, Full-Time (Non-Union)
Posting Status: Open to all current Town of Oakville employees and external
applicants
Salary Range: $93,437 to $112,169
Pay Grade: 5
Closing Date: Applications for this position must be received at Oakville.ca no
later than 11:59 p.m. on November 6, 2026.
This job posting is for an existing vacancy and therefore will be filled accordingly.
We offer:
• A hybrid work schedule
• A defined benefit pension plan (OMERS)
• Comprehensive health plan complemented with life and disability insurance
• A progressive work environment that promotes a work/life balance and strives to be a great
place for great people to do great things
What can I expect to do in this role?
Reporting to the Manager of Corporate Communications, the Senior Communications Advisor (SCA) is
responsible for establishing strategic direction for their clients’ (Town departments) communications
initiatives. The SCA has senior level experience developing and implementing effective internal and
external communications plans and providing on-going strategic communications advice and support to
clients in an effort to build, promote and protect the Town’s brand. The SCA understands and commits
to the mission and values of the corporation.
As a Senior Communications Advisor you will:
• Develop and implement custom communications plans – including strategies focused on issue or
reputation management, crisis communications, media relations, public engagement, social media,
event planning, collateral development, internal communications, promotion, marketing and
advertising.
• Write and develop a variety communications material for internal and external audiences, including
but not limited to media briefs and speaking notes, news releases, interview backgrounders, social
media posts, web and intranet content, staff and resident newsletters, email bulletins, brochure and
advertisement copy.
• Ensure organizational initiatives and projects are successfully communicated to employees and
community.
• Manage collateral development from inception to completion including project scope and budget
requirements, research, concept development, writing, approvals, design, and printing as well as
the hiring and tendering of third-party vendors.
• Manage resources to ensure budget, deadlines and deliverables are met.
• Proactively manage the Town’s reputation by identifying potential issues (including contentious
ones) and providing advice and solutions.
Successful candidates will abide by Ontario Health & Safety Legislation and follow Corporate Health & Safety Policies.
The Town of Oakville is an equal opportunity employer
Personal information collected from applications and resumes is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, 2001, and will be used to determine
qualifications for employment. Questions about this collection of information should be directed to Human Resource Services, 1225 Trafalgar Road,
Oakville, Ontario L6H 0H3
• Make well-thought-out recommendations to management.
• Proactively monitor media stories/issues relevant to the Town and pitch stories that align with the
interests of target publications.
• Coordinate responses to incoming media inquiries, plan and manage media opportunities and
provide on-site media support as required.
• Identify, advise and/or manage opportunities to engage the Town’s diverse community in a two-way
dialogue as per the Town’s public engagement procedure.
• Provide recommendations and support to clients on advertising and marketing opportunities.
• Be the go-to resource for media and public relations, and provide information, tools and advice for
programs and initiatives.
• Review and edit materials for consistency of style, format, readability and accessibility.
• Plan or support the execution of some internal and external events for clients.
• Establish, enhance and maintain productive relationships with other levels of governments and
municipal partners.
• Exercise discretion in dealing with sensitive political and confidential corporate issues or materials.
• Other duties as assigned.
How do I qualify?
• Completion of a university degree, diploma and/or post graduate certificate in communications or
related field along with a minimum of five years of relevant experience in corporate
communications, public relations, and marketing or an equivalent combination of education and/or
experience. Your formal education is augmented by progressively responsible roles that
demonstrate deep capability in the skills outlined below.
• Significant experience working in a municipal setting or public sector organization is preferred, with
a solid understanding of public sector processes, governance and community-focused delivery.
• Strong political acumen, with expertise in strategic communications planning and execution,
promotion, public engagement, issues management, media relations, social media and internal
communications.
• Exceptional writing and editorial skills to simplify and translate complex information into compelling
narratives that resonate with target audiences.
• A proven track record working collaboratively with senior staff and Members of Council and can
work independently and exercise sound judgment with minimal direction.
In addition, your experience and skills include:
o Possess knowledge in current and possible future policies, practices, trends, technology and
information related to public engagement, online communications and marketing, as well as
internal and external communications.
o Expert knowledge of the changing media landscape and how to leverage traditional and
non-traditional forms of media to advance corporate initiatives by reaching target audiences
and delivering positive, compelling messages.
o Writing clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication settings and styles.
o Time management skills in scoping out length and difficulty of tasks and projects; setting
objectives and goals and establishing targets and measuring metrics for delivery, quality and
productivity.
o Exercising sound judgment and evidence-based decision making in demanding or stressful
situations, responding decisively and quickly to emerging opportunities or risks; being
cognizant of decisions that may be politically sensitive.
o Demonstrating values and ethics in personal behavior in keeping with corporate values; is
widely trusted; maintains honesty and integrity.
Successful candidates will abide by Ontario Health & Safety Legislation and follow Corporate Health & Safety Policies.
The Town of Oakville is an equal opportunity employer
Personal information collected from applications and resumes is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, 2001, and will be used to determine
qualifications for employment. Questions about this collection of information should be directed to Human Resource Services, 1225 Trafalgar Road,
Oakville, Ontario L6H 0H3
o Identifying solutions, alternatives and consequences based upon the evaluation of relevant
facts, issues and risks.
o Establishing inclusive, cooperative approaches with staff, peers, superiors and clients.
o Demonstrating an understanding of team member roles and responsibilities and balancing
own needs with those of the team or organization.
o Using government assets and resources appropriately and responsibly by understanding
and applying related policies and procedures.
o Establishing good relationships with government and community partners and seeking out
opportunities for collaboration and strategic alliances as necessary.
Core Knowledge Required for Success:
You are an experienced professional with a comprehensive knowledge of:
• Writing clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication settings and styles
• Current practices, trends, technology and information relative to corporate communications;
including social media other online communication tools.
• CP (Canadian Press) style.
• Microsoft office software and other appropriate applications.
• Familiarity with online content management systems.
• Familiarity with graphic design software e.g., InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop.
Corporate Values:
Teamwork, accountability, dedication, honesty, innovation and respect
DATED: October 29, 2026
The Town’s recruitment software includes elements of artificial intelligence to assist in the screening
and short-listing of qualified candidates.
This job profile reflects the general details considered necessary to perform the principal functions and
shall not be construed as an interpretation of all work requirements inherent in the job. Applicants are
required to demonstrate in their applications and in the interview process that their qualifications for the
positions match those specified. Applicants may be required to undergo a skills assessment and/or
testing.
We thank all applicants and advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.