Senior Manager, Communications & Marketing (5 Month Contract)

Reporting to the Interim Executive Director, the Senior Manager, Communications and Marketing is responsible for elevating the brand and visibility of the Humanitarian Coalition and its membership, developing and implementing the overall communications strategy, leading on the promotion and performance of joint public appeals, collaborating on the elaboration and implementation of the annual fundraising strategy, and supporting on engagement of the Management and Fundraising Committee as well as the Communications Committee in accomplishing our strategic objectives.

In the short-term absence of the Interim Executive Director, the Senior Manager will serve as Deputy Director of the Humanitarian Coalition.

Dedicated, versatile, creative and committed to excellence, the Senior Manager, Communications and Marketing will employ a variety of tactics to engage stakeholders in concerted communications, fundraising, marketing and public relations strategies and campaigns, and will implement successful national-scale appeals for assistance in support of humanitarian disaster survivors around the world.

The ideal candidate is a motivated self-starter and strategic thinker. They are a skilled writer, who has demonstrated experience in media relations, strategic communications, fundraising and marketing initiatives. Working knowledge of national media, social media tools, best practices in fundraising and exceptional project management skills are required.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Develop and implement communications strategy to support organizational objectives
• Lead the development and promotion of the Humanitarian Coalition brand in both official languages by the secretariat
• Advise the Interim Executive Director on public relations and reputational issue
• Plan, manage and implement communications activities for various campaigns and platforms, including the communication components of appeal campaigns
• Analyze communications performance metrics and adjust activities to meet targets
• Prepare and manage budgets for identified communications activities
• Write content for different audiences and tools (web, newsletters, social media, speeches, editorials, appeals, etc.) and produce documents such as the Annual Report, appeal reports, etc.
• Chair the Humanitarian Coalition’s Communications Committee
• Work with Communications Specialist, Program Specialist and Communications Committee reps to gather content (especially stories and photos) to report to donors and other stakeholders on project progress and outcomes
• Manage website communications strategy and develop content
• Handle media relations activities, including organizing media events and developing key messages, news releases, statements and backgrounders
• Organize public engagement events
• Chair the Humanitarian Coalition’s Communications Committee
• Onboard communications reps from new member agencies
• Collaborate with Humanitarian Coalition’s Interim Executive Director, colleagues, external experts and stakeholders (MFC, others) to enhance Coalition strategies, plans and assets for joint appeals to mobilize the Canadian public. In collaboration with the Fundraising Manager and MFC Chair, support the development and implementation of the MFC annual workplan and monthly meetings.
• Oversee and implement joint appeal campaigns, in particular the external marketing components, in order to elevate the profile of the HC response to the crisis and recruit new donors.
• Ensure HC and member appeal readiness, including training, access to resources and exercises as appropriate.
• Collaborate with the Stewardship Manager to optimize the response from existing donors during appeals and annual fundraising activities and collaborate with the Partnership Specialist to optimize support from new and existing partners.
• Prepare and manage budgets for identified appeal and marketing activities
• Set targets for appeals, monitor results and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Leverage data and develop testing plans to apply lessons learned, innovate, and improve fundraising and marketing results.
• Evaluate activities and outcomes of appeals and prepare reports and recommendations
• Support the Manager of Stewardship and Fundraising as needed on HC cultivation and stewardship plans to optimize donor engagement, including regular contact through e-blasts, newsletters, mailings, annual and appeal reports, telephone contact, surveys, events, etc.
• Provide staff management to the Partnerships Specialist, Corporate and Media, and the Communications Specialist.
• The Manager will serve as Deputy Director in the absence of the Interim Executive Director for any short-term periods.

About you:

• University degree in journalism, marketing, communications, fundraising or related field
• 5-7 years of professional experience in marketing, communications, fundraising and project management, preferably with a nonprofit organization.
• Proven ability to manage, motivate, support and supervise staff and volunteers
• Proficiency in English (oral and written) is required and will be tested in the selection process.
• Proven ability to write clear, concise and compelling prose adapted to different audiences and channels — articles, news releases, op-eds, ad copy, blog posts, email and direct mail appeals, etc.
• Demonstrated success in writing, editing and coordinating production of an array of communications and fundraising tools to tight deadlines
• Solid copy-editing skills, strong attention to detail
• Demonstrated success initiating proactive media relations and fundraising programs
• Exceptional project management skills
• Highly organized and works well independently
• Adaptable and flexible to evolving work requirements

What would make you extraordinary:

• French (oral and written) is an asset but not required
• Applicable knowledge of relevant computer software (Microsoft Office Suite); knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite an asset
• International and/or humanitarian experience an asset

Location:

• The position is based preferably in Ottawa or the Greater Toronto Area, with occasional travel to other locations as required. The role is primarily remote, with in-person team meetings roughly 5-6 times/year. The role also requires occasional in-person meetings with partners.

What we offer:

• Starting range for this role is $90,000 - $95,000 prorated
• Comprehensive benefits package and confidential employee assistance program services available to you and your dependents from your first day of employment.
• We offer a December 24-January 1 office closure.
• Inclusive holiday policy.
• Paid sick leave.
• Learning and development opportunities.

How to Apply:

• All applications should be made online by September 5, 2025 here.
• All applicants must be eligible to work in Canada.
• We thank all applicants in advance. However, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
• The Humanitarian Coalition is committed to employment equity, welcomes diversity in the workplace and encourages applications from all.

PayType

Salary