Manager - Communications & Public Relations (Full-time)

**Job Description**:
The City of Thunder Bay is undergoing an exciting transformation—and we’re looking for a visionary communications leader to help tell that story.

On behalf of our client, the Corporation of the City of Thunder Bay, Phelps is recruiting a **Manager - Communications & Public Relations**—a unique leadership opportunity to develop and execute a bold, strategic communications vision that enhances public engagement, builds trust, and strengthens the City's brand locally and nationally.

**About the Role**

As the Manager of Communications & Public Relations, you will lead a talented team and play a vital role in aligning all communications with Thunder Bay’s strategic priorities, including its ambitious Smart Growth Action Plan. You will advise senior leadership, manage high-impact campaigns, and bring innovation to how the City communicates with residents, partners, and the broader public.

This is more than a management role—it’s a chance to shape how a city connects with its people.

**Why This Role is Exciting**
- ** Meaningful Impact** - Influence public dialogue and community trust at a city-wide level
- ** Strategic Influence** - Collaborate directly with senior leaders on high-profile initiatives
- ** Deep Community Engagement** - Champion storytelling that reflects the voices and values of Thunder Bay
- ** Thriving Together** - Join a leadership team that values innovation, collaboration, and development
- ** Investing in You** - Thrive with a healthy work life balance, comprehensive benefits, secure pension, and professional development programs that support growth and open doors for career mobility

To learn more about the Corporation of the City of Thunder Bay visit: City of Thunder Bay Careers
- A degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or related field
- 8+ years in progressively senior leadership experience in strategic communications, branding, and public relations, ideally in a public sector environment
- Experience managing people, budgets, and cross-platform communications
- Advanced expertise in digital marketing tools, analytics, and platforms

**Leadership Qualities**
- ** Visionary Leadership** - Set a clear direction and inspire a high-performing team
- ** Strategic Thinking** - Align messaging with city-wide goals and long-term growth
- ** Collaborative Spirit** - Build strong internal and external relationships
- ** Emotional Intelligence** - Lead with empathy, adaptability, and authenticity
- ** Decisiveness & Resilience** - Navigate complexity with clarity and confidence
- ** Communication Excellence** - Craft compelling narratives for diverse audiences

**Why the Corporation of the City of Thunder Bay?**

The Corporation runs on people like you; that’s why they’re creating a workplace where everyone belongs. Driven by a commitment to excellence, they make a real impact in the community every day. With this employer, stability meets purpose, and diversity is valued. In their supportive and collaborative environment, your growth and well-being will be at the heart of everything they do.

**Why Thunder Bay?**

With a population of 123,000, Thunder Bay is Northwestern Ontario’s largest city and a hub for business, health, and education. Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, it offers both urban opportunities and unmatched natural beauty. It’s also one of Canada’s most culturally diverse mid-sized cities—and a place where community, innovation, and quality of life come together.

Learn more at: Thunder Bay - Community Economic Development Commission

Application deadline: Wednesday April 30th, 2025

Phelps: 401 Bay Street, Suite 1400, Toronto, ON M5H 2Y4

Phone: 416 364 6229

**General Information**:
**ONTARIO HUMAN RIGHTS CODE**: It is a contravention of the Human Rights Code of Ontario to discriminate on the basis of: race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, disability, age, record of offences, gender identity or gender expression. Therefore, a resume submitted to the City must not include references to any of the above characteristics. Do not include:

- Photos
- Any certificates that have photo identification
- Driver’s licences
- Police records checks

**ACCOMMODATION**: Reasonable accommodations are available upon request for all parts of the recruitment process.

**PRIVACY**:Personal information on this form is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, c. 302, as amended, and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. Questions about this collection of personal information should be directed to the Human Resources & Corporate Safety Division, 125 Syndicate Ave Suite 42, Thunder Bay, Ontario, P7E 6H8, Telephone: 625-3866

The City of Thunder Bay is a place where art, culture and nature come together

Watch this video to learn more about our City: