Any qualified candidates are invited to apply for this vacancy.VACANCY STATUSThis posting is for an existing vacancy.ABOUT THE 519The 519 creates space for change, advancing 2SLGBTQ+ equity, justice, and community well‑being in Toronto and beyond. Through our integrated model of service, space, and leadership, we work alongside communities to respond to immediate needs while driving long‑term social transformation.ABOUT THE ROLEThe Director, Strategic Communications leads The 519’s external communications, brand, storytelling, and donor‑facing content strategy. Reporting to the Head of Strategy, this role is responsible for shaping how The 519 shows up internally and externally to communities, supporters, media, and partners.This position blends hands‑on writing and editorial leadership with strategic oversight of brand, voice, and engagement, ensuring that communications and fundraising materials are compelling, values‑aligned, and grounded in community realities.The Director works closely with program, advocacy, and fundraising colleagues to translate impact into narratives that build trust, deepen relationships, and sustain long‑term support.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESCommunications Strategy & Brand StewardshipLead The 519’s external communications strategy across digital, social, media, and print channelsDesign public education and influence campaigns to advance legislative, systems, and community prioritiesAct as a steward of organizational voice, tone, and visual identity, ensuring consistency across all public‑facing and donor‑facing materialsDevelop and maintain messaging frameworks, editorial standards, and brand guidelinesEnsure communications reflect The 519’s anti‑racist, intersectional, and community‑centered valuesServe as a senior writer and editor, producing and refining high‑quality content including web copy, reports, speeches, statements, donor communications, appeals, and campaign materialsOversee storytelling that clearly communicates impact, urgency, and community leadershipSupport staff across the organization with content development, editing, and narrative framingIdentify and guide content capture opportunities across programs, events, and initiativesPartner closely with Philanthropy staff to support fundraising objectives through compelling, values‑aligned storytellingSupport the creation of donor‑facing content, including fundraising appeals, stewardship communications, newsletters,
and integrated campaignsSupport the articulation and evolution of strong case‑for‑support narratives aligned with organizational prioritiesEnsure donor communications are respectful, transparent, community‑informed, and consistent with The 519’s brand and valuesCollaborate on integrated campaigns that align communications, development, and advocacy goalsDigital & Social MediaOversee The 519’s digital presence, including website content and social media platformsGuide content strategy for social media that balances engagement, education, advocacy, and fundraising objectivesEnsure digital communications are timely, accessible, and responsive to emerging issuesEstablish communications performance frameworks, leveraging qualitative and quantitative metrics to evaluate brand reach, audience engagement, fundraising effectiveness, and narrative impact, and adapt content strategies to strengthen reach and impactMedia & Public RelationsLead media relations, including press outreach, pitching, interview preparation, and issue responseSupport organizational issues management and crisis communications, including risk monitoring, scenario planning, rapid response messaging, and executive briefing support to protect and advance the 519’s reputationDevelop press materials such as releases, backgrounders, and media kitsBuild and maintain relationships with journalists and media outletsSupport organizational leaders and subject matter experts in media engagementManage and support communications staff, contractors, and consultantsFoster a team-oriented, values‑based team culture grounded in learning, care, and accountabilityWork cross‑functionally with programs, advocacy, and development teams to align communications with organizational prioritiesOversee communications budget, including campaign investments, agency partnerships, digital platforms, and production resources, ensuring strategic and cost‑effective allocationSKILLS & EXPERIENCE7+ years of experience in communications, journalism, or related fields, with leadership or management experienceExceptional writing and editing skills, with a strong portfolio across formats and audiencesDemonstrated experience overseeing brand, voice, and content strategyHands‑on experience with social media, digital content,
and media relationsStrong editorial judgment and the ability to translate complex or sensitive issues into clear, compelling narrativesExperience working in nonprofit, advocacy, public sector, community‑based, or mission‑driven organizations preferredAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced, values‑driven environmentDeep understanding of 2SLGBTQ+ communities and issues, with a demonstrated commitment to inclusive and equitable practicePOSITION DETAILSPosition StatusFull‑Time, PermanentUnion StatusNon‑Union – ManagementSalary Range$86,716 – $112,233/ year (wage grade 6)BenefitsEnrolled in health, dental, life and disability benefits from day one; Mandatory OMERS pensionenrollment from day one.Hours of Work35 hours per week, with regular evening and weekend workVacation3 weeks per year, pro‑rated, to be used after first year of employmentLocationDue to the nature of the work, this job will be performed onsite with occasional hybrid options.APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONSEmail your cover letter and resume as one document to
[email protected] no later thanSunday, March 1, 2026, at 11:59pm.Please quoteJob #26-07and your name in the cover letter and in the subject line of the email. For example, in the subject line write “Job 26-07 First Name Last Name”. Please also share which pronouns you would like us to use when corresponding with you (directly and within The 519) in your email or your cover letter.Applicants are required to demonstrate in their resume that their qualifications match those specified in the job posting.The 519 actively encourages applicants from all equity seeking groups. The 519 embraces diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Our goal is to attract, develop, and retain highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds allowing us to benefit from a wide variety of experiences and perspectives. We thank all applicants. No agencies please.Accommodation:The 519 is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive organization. We are committed to providing barrier‑free and accessible employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Should you require Code‑protected accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please make them known when contacted and we will work with you to meet your needs. Disability‑related accommodation during the application process is available upon request.The 519519 Church St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2C9A City of Toronto AgencyRegistered charity (119310761‑RR0001)#J-18808-Ljbffr
📌 Director, Strategic Communications - C$86,716 - C$112,233 A Year (Toronto)
🏢 The 519
📍 Toronto