Senior Director of Communications and Engagement

Senior Director of Communications and EngagementJob DescriptionPosted Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 7:00 AMAbout MusqueamWe are traditional hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ speaking people. Today, we are a strong, growing community of over 1,300 members. We live on a small portion of our traditional territory, known as the Musqueam Indian Reserve, located south of Marine Drive near the mouth of the Fraser River. The name Musqueam relates back to the River Plant, the name of the plant is məθkʷəy̓. There is a story that has been passed on from generation to generation that explains how we became known as the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) - People of the River Plant. We have always moved throughout our territory using the resources it provides for fishing, hunting, trapping and gathering. We remain distinct and our cultural practices are strong, despite the devastating impacts of residential schools, colonial laws banning our ceremonies, and other attempts to assimilate our people. Our lands and waters continue to support our cultural and economic practices while serving as a source of knowledge and memory, encoded with our teachings and laws. To learn more about Musqueam, please visit www.musqueam.bc.caThe Senior Director of Communications and Engagement is responsible for overseeing and implementing Musqueam Indian Band’s (MIB) Communications strategy. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), the Senior Director is responsible for developing, leading, and implementing a comprehensive and strategic communication and engagement plan that aligns with Musqueam’s values and priorities. This role ensures consistent, culturally respectful, and transparent communication with community members, external agencies, and the broader public.This role is required to build a comprehensive communication and engagement plan from beginning to end, act as a bridge between internal and external agencies, and uplift Musqueam’s identity and voice through strategic communications and public relations. Central to this position is the ability to foster engagement opportunities both with external agencies, but also Musqueam community and staff. Critical to this position is the development and dissemination of brand standards, internal communications processes, media relations and all forms of digital media. This position will ensure that all communications activities support community engagement, organizational goals, and the protection and promotion of Musqueam’s identity and sovereignty.This position oversees the Communications, Protocol, Marketing, Branding, and Events Departments.This role is considered a Senior Management Role, therefore may call on you to assist in additional duties related to the Senior Management Team when required.Build, lead, and manage the Communication and Engagement Department, including expanding the department, provide oversight of staff and their workplans, and department budget.Develop and implement a long-term strategic communications and engagement strategy for the Musqueam Indian Band, focusing on both internal community communications and engagement with external agencies, partners, and the public.Provide expert advice and guidance to the CAO, Chief and Council, and staff of administration on matters related to public relations, media relations, and crisis communications.Oversee the creation, approval, and dissemination of communications materials including media releases, newsletters, internal memos, strategic announcements, presentations, annual reports, promotional content, and Musqueam website.Working with the CAO, serve as the primary media contact for the organization, managing media requests, developing press materials, and coordinating responses on behalf of MIB.Build and maintain strong relationships with Musqueam community members, internal and external agencies, governments, and media, and represent Musqueam’s interests in a professional and culturally grounded manner.Ensure communications-related records, digital content, photos and materials are organized, archived, and maintained according to information management protocols.Arrange media monitoring and develop crisis communications planPrepare briefing materials and quarterly reports to CAO, Committees, and Council as requested.Develop community engagement initiatives worked closely with departments across the organizationProvide leadership support to Protocol team and align activities and consistency of materials and messagingOther duties as assignedKNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIESA post-secondary degree in communications, public relations, marketing, journalism, web and graphic design or a related discipline, and/or a minimum 7-10 years applied experience in the field, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experienceProven ability to lead strategic communications planning and execute high-quality campaigns and initiatives that engage a broad range of audiences.Demonstrated knowledge of digital marketing best practices for social media, digital ads, search engine optimization, and basic website managementDemonstrated proficiency in media relations, social media management, crisis communications, and content creation across multiple platforms.Demonstrated experience leading effective community engagement programs in an Indigenous context, and/or with diverse communitiesCommunications – excellent oral and written communications skills, demonstrated ability to present clear and concise information to diverse stakeholders, and high standards of quality and attention to detail.Demonstrated cultural competency, and familiarity with Musqueam community and its cultural traditionsStrong organizational and leadership skills, including the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Criminal Record CheckWorking ConditionsThe work is performed in an office environment.On call coverage as primary media contact with appropriate compensationWhy work for Musqueam?Our success as a leader as a First Nations Government is built on the traditional teachings of our people, initiative and dedication of the Musqueam Indian Band. Providing a highly engaged traditional government that is member focused.Training and career developmentBusiness casual environmentCommunity fitness and gym accessComprehensive group benefits plan and pension planCentrally located with free parking; free onsite gym and class access. #J-18808-Ljbffr