Communications Director

Description:

Maple Leaf Foods is embarking on a strategic transformation by separating into two independent public companies. One of these will be Canada Packers, which is set to emerge as a world leader in sustainable meat production. As part of building a robust team, Canada Packers is hiring a Communications Director to lead and execute impactful external and internal communications strategies.

Reporting directly to the General Counsel, this pivotal role is responsible for managing all aspects of public relations, media engagement, and internal communications to enhance and uphold the reputation of Canada Packers. The position requires a highly strategic communicator with a passion for storytelling, a deep understanding of corporate communications, and the ability to navigate fast-paced, high-stakes environments.

Key Responsibilities:

External Communications:

• Manage relationships with media and agency partners to develop and execute public relations campaigns for major initiatives.

• Create and disseminate corporate communication materials including press releases, key messages, media pitches, and Q&A documents.

• Lead contract negotiations with communications vendors, ensuring cost-effectiveness and alignment with company needs.

• Monitor corporate issues, draft responses, and generate post-event media analysis.

• Support executive leadership with communication tools such as briefing docs, media analysis, and presentation content.

• Manage media inquiries including crisis communications and reputational risk.

• Develop and support social media strategies for both internal and external communications.

• Coordinate daily media monitoring and quarterly media analysis for senior leadership.

• Oversee execution of major corporate events and employee engagement initiatives.

Internal Communications:

• Implement communication strategies that inform and engage internal stakeholders across all levels of the organization.

• Lead change management communications for high-impact organizational initiatives.

• Foster consistent messaging between corporate offices and hourly team members.

• Create engaging internal content that reflects and amplifies corporate values and priorities.

Qualifications and Skills Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.

• Proven experience in external and internal corporate communications.

• Outstanding writing, editing, and digital content production skills.

• Strong digital communication skills with the ability to tailor content for diverse audiences.

• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale communication projects under tight timelines.

• Exceptional judgment, attention to detail, and project management capabilities.

• Ability to work independently and maintain discretion with confidential information.

• Skilled in Microsoft Office and modern communication tools.

What Maple Leaf Foods Offers:

• A chance to be part of an organization redefining sustainable protein production.

• Inclusive and supportive workplace that fosters continuous learning and personal growth.

• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and balance.

• Comprehensive Health and Wellness benefits starting from day one.

• Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company match from day one.

• Career development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement and speaker series.

• Two paid volunteer days annually to support community involvement.