Director, Communications and Government Relations (Contract - Full Time) Guided by our core values of honesty, caring, respect and responsibility, YMCA Calgary offers a growing hub of programming & services to address the needs of our community including connection and belonging, physical and mental wellbeing, child-care support, language instruction, affordable tutoring and more. We also ensure that no one is turned away, lowering financial barriers for youth, adults and families through the generous donations of our community. This impact takes place across our 7 health and wellness facilities, 6 childcare centres, 2 outdoor camps and 12+ community programs, empowering people of all ages and life stages to belong, grow, thrive and lead.

Director, Communications and Government Relations (Contract - Full Time) Association Services Salary: $84,815.00/yr - $106,019.00/yr Employment Type: 12-Month Contract You can make an impact in the community - locally and across the globe. Complimentary YMCA Calgary membership including a linked membership for dependent children

- Comprehensive health and dental benefits. Scholarship opportunities
- Paid recertification and training. Minimum of 5 years of public affairs experience in a government or public policy setting
- Strong understanding of the public policy process and issues management
- Superior writing ability, including preparation of high-quality, values-based messaging
- Strong initiative, planning, budgeting, and organizational skills
- Knowledge of the charitable sector is an asset
- Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging as well as experience in implementing equity-focused initiatives that address systemic barriers at work
- The Director of Community and Government Relations will provide senior leadership to advance YMCA Calgary’s mission by strengthening the organization’s reputation through strategic communications, media relations, stakeholder engagement, partnerships, and government relations. Reporting to the Vice President of Community Engagement,



this role is responsible for developing and implementing integrated advocacy, communications, and engagement strategies that align with organizational priorities, enhance public trust, and amplify the YMCA’s impact across communities. By championing collaboration and driving alignment with strategic initiatives, the Director will integrate community and government efforts to support funding opportunities, elevate organizational presence, and deliver meaningful outcomes that help individuals and communities belong, grow, thrive, and lead. Lead Advocacy & Government Relations Lead the development and implementation of policy and engagement strategies for community and government audiences. Build strong relationships with elected officials, government representatives, and key community partners. Collaborate with senior leaders and the Fund Development team to secure government support and investment in strategic initiatives. Maintain an up-to-date inventory of government funding opportunities, integrating these into annual planning processes to maximize funding potential. Organize and host government and partner announcements, facility tours, and events to showcase YMCA programming, facilities, and impact. Conduct research, draft briefing notes, and author white papers to distill complex issues and articulate YMCA positions clearly and persuasively. Lead Communications and Grow Reputation Lead organizational communications strategy, including external messaging and brand management. Oversee development of key communications materials, including annual reports, impact reports, speeches, briefing notes, and public statements.



Develop strategies, key messages, presentations, and collateral materials to support effective engagement with external stakeholders. Frame complex issues into explicit and impactful communications for various external audiences. Oversee community engagement activities to foster connection and belonging for members, employees, and our community-at-large through activities and initiatives. Oversee internal communications including support for operations, employee engagement initiatives, leadership and town hall meetings, and intranet management.

Lead Public

Relations, including Media Relations and Crisis Communications Develop and execute a comprehensive community relations strategy that enhances the YMCA’s reputation and aligns with government relations priorities. Provide proactive media relations support, participate in an on-call emergency response rotation, and manage issues tracking.

Deepen Community Engagement

Lead relationships with key government agencies and community organizations, such as Calgary Economic Development, the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, the Nonprofit Chamber, Sport Calgary, United Way of Calgary, etc. Develop frameworks and processes to develop, support, and enhance community partnerships for shared impact. What qualities do we look for in YMCA Calgary Staff and Volunteers?

Building Purposeful Relationships: Creating a Culture of Community: Demonstrating excellence in technical skills and stewarding the YMCA Business Model. Applicants must have legal authorization to work in Canada by way of Canadian Citizenship, Permanent Residency or a valid Canadian work permit. YMCA Calgary is currently not engaged in international recruitment efforts as we are required to demonstrate that we have exhausted all means of recruitment both locally and nationally.

All applications are to be submitted online but for any position specific concerns or questions, please email careers@ymcacalgary.

📌 Director, Communications and Government Relations (Contract - Full Time) (Calgary)
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📍 Calgary