Position Title: Communications Manager Reporting To: Director of Communications and Public Relations Location: Hybrid or local (MNC Office, #600-180 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON) Position Status: Full Time (35 hours per week), Permanent The Organization: The Métis Nation is a distinct Indigenous people recognized under Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution Act, 1982. The Métis National Council (MNC) and its Governing Members advocate for the Métis Nation. The primary mandate of the MNC is to work with federal and other key stakeholders to resolve systemic issues and concerns of the Métis Nation such as the fiscal relationship with the federal government; economic development; health; childcare and family services; education; environment, Métis veterans, and language promotion and protection. The MNC represents the Métis Nation both domestically and abroad and seeks to reinforce the Métis Nation’s right to self-government in Canada.
The Opportunity: The Métis National Council is seeking a dynamic and highly skilled Communications Manager to lead strategic communications initiatives that support the MNC’s advocacy, public affairs, media relations, and stakeholder engagement objectives.Reporting to the Director of Communications and Public Relations, the Communications Manager will play a key role in shaping and delivering compelling communications strategies that elevate the profile of the MNC and support the priorities of the Governing Members. Key Responsibilities: Strategic Communications & Public Relations Lead the development and implementation of communications plans and strategies that advance MNC Priorities and advocacy objectives. Provide strategic communications advice and support to senior leadership, including the President, CEO and Directors. Monitor political, parliamentary, media, and public affairs developments relevant to the Métis Nation and provide, risk assessments, and response strategies. Support MNC responses to emerging issues.
Media Relations & Stakeholder Support Develop and maintain strong working relationships with national media, journalists, political staff, government communications officials, Indigenous organizations, and key stakeholders. Lead media outreach, interview coordination, press conferences, media preparation, and issue management. Content Development & Political Communications Oversee the development and review of communications products, including press releases, reports, newsletters, speeches, web content, social media content, and internal communications. Manage MNC’s digital communications presence, including social media strategy, content calendars, website updates, and audience engagement. Lead the production and direction of MNC communications initiatives including the Pemmican Post, the MNC Insider, podcasts, and other public education or storytelling projects.
Leadership & Collaboration Collaborate with internal departments, Governing Members, and external partners to coordinate communications campaigns and initiatives. Support the planning and execution of major events. Provide mentorship and guidance to the communications team. Assume responsibilities of the Director of Communications and Public Relations as required.
Qualifications: Master’s degree, certification or relevant work experience in Communications, Political Science, Public Relations, Journalism, Public Affairs, or a related discipline. Five (5) to ten (10) years of experience in strategic communications, media relations, public affairs, political communications, or government relations. Experience working with, and an understanding of, the Métis Nation and the role of the Métis National Council. Experience working in a communications role within an Indigenous government or organization, government, Minister’s office, or similarly high-profile or similar political environment is considered a strong asset. Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communications skills with the ability to tailor messaging for political leaders, media, government officials, and community audiences. Proven ability to work in fast-paced, high-pressure environments while managing competing priorities and tight deadlines. Experience developing strategic communications plans and executing integrated media, digital, and stakeholder engagement campaigns. Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with journalists, political staff, Indigenous leadership, and senior government officials. Knowledge & Skills: Demonstrated understanding of Métis culture, history, and the unique challenges faced by Métis communities. Strong knowledge of the Métis Nation's historical, political and legal issues. High level of tact, diplomacy, and discretion in handling sensitive matters. Sound judgement and creativity in problem solving and decision making. Excellent organizational, multi-tasking and time-management skills Proven resilience and adaptability in dynamic or complex environments
Additional Requirements: Complete a clean Criminal Record Check with the Vulnerable Sector. Willingness to travel domestically or internationally, at times with short notice.
The Métis National Council is an organization that is primarily engaged in serving the interests of persons identified by their Métis citizenship. For this position, preference in employment will be given to applicants who identify as Métis, in accordance with section 24(1) of the Ontario Human Rights Code. Since this role involves delivering culturally appropriate services to the Métis community, being Métis is a reasonable and bona fide requirement of the position. Applicants are invited to indicate their Métis identity in their application and provide proof of Métis citizenship at the time of application.
The Metis National Council is an equal opportunity employer and are committed to the principles of Employment Equity. We encourage applications from qualified applicants of all genders, including Indigenous persons, visible minorities, and persons with disabilities. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.
