Lead, Media Relations

**POSITION**: Lead, Media Relations (2-year contract)
**REPORTS TO**: Senior Manager, Communications
**DEPARTMENT**: Marketing and Communications
**LOCATION**: North Bay
**REFERENCE**: 800-98-26
**SALARY**: $97,578 - $114,790

**WHO WE ARE**:
Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) is an Agency of the Province of Ontario that provides efficient and vital transportation services. We are a modern, forward-thinking organization focused on providing safe and reliable transportation services. ONTC has a rich history of over 120 years and strong connections to the communities we serve. With over 1000 skilled professionals, we work together to enhance transportation services and ensure that they are sustainable for future generations. We offer a dynamic workplace culture, along with a competitive salary, excellent benefit package, a defined benefit pension plan, paid vacation, paid personal leave days and discounted transportation on our bus and passenger rail services.

**ACCOUNTABILITY STATEMENT**:
The Northlander Media Relations Lead will act as a first point of contact for all media requests related to the Northlander. This role will guide the organization in strategically engaging both traditional and digital media (influencers, bloggers, etc.) to enhance the organization’s reputation as it relates to the Northlander service. This position will also help the agency prepare for and navigate contentious issues as the service launches.

**MAJOR DUTIES/ RESPONSIBILITIES**:

- Ensure all media requests related to the Northlander are managed promptly and in line with the Communications Protocol.
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify, research, and develop messaging on emerging issues or service updates.
- Maintain an up-to-date media distribution list for corridor communities.
- Monitor and report on media coverage using tracking tools; flag trends and issues to the communications team.
- Lead media escorting processes for train access, ensuring safety and mínimal disruption to passengers.
- Maintain a library of approved messaging, images, and branded content for media use.
- Assist in selecting and preparing spokespeople for interviews and media training.
- Support crisis communications by drafting public messaging, facilitating approvals, and contributing to planning and templates.
- Draft reactive statements and correct inaccurate media coverage as needed.
- Coordinate with the Ministry of Transportation to secure approvals for media requests and ensure alignment with government messaging.
- Track outstanding media requests and maintain organized records of approved messaging.
- Develop and seek approval for key messages for stakeholders (e.g., Commission, MPPs, MTO).
- Liaise with government partners to support communications planning and identify opportunities for announcements.
- Assist in planning and executing public-facing events, including messaging, Q&A, social media content, and speaking notes.
- Develop strategies for engaging traditional and digital media, including influencers and bloggers.
- Ensure Ontario Northland’s public representation aligns with brand guidelines.
- Conduct daily media scans and share insights for planning and issue tracking.
- Attend Northlander events to manage media inquiries and coordinate responses.
- Travel with media onboard to ensure positive representation and adherence to safety and privacy protocols.
- Collaborate with photographers and videographers to ensure respectful and safe content capture.

**REQUIREMENTS**:

- Bachelor’s degree in Communication, Journalism, Business Administration/Management, Marketing, Public Administration or Bachelor of Arts.
- 3+ years of experience working in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field.
- Experience working with or within media organizations.
- Proven ability to craft speeches, media releases, digital content, and copy for various platforms.
- Demonstrated experience responding to media inquiries and drafting speaking notes and media responses.
- Skilled in developing and executing media strategies collaboratively.
- Experience providing expert communication advice to senior leadership.
- Ability to manage and navigate contentious or sensitive issues with professionalism and discretion
- Exceptional writing and editing skills, with the ability to adapt tone and messaging for diverse audiences.
- Experience in government or government relations is preferred
- Experience with communications platforms such as Meltwater, Cision, Hootsuite, or similar tools is preferred
- Proficient in Microsoft Office tools, including Word, Excel, and Teams.
- Experience using cloud-based platforms, such as SharePoint and OneDrive.
- Strong interpersonal and relationship building skills.
- Excellent verbal, written and presentation skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Ability to think and adapt to fast paced environments.
- Valid driver’s license (required for regular t