Job Summary Reporting to the Director of Communications, the Manager, Communications will assume strategic leadership across all integrated communications functions: corporate communications, digital, media and issues, events and government relations.

The Manager, Communications is a strategic thinker, adept at developing and implementing communication plans that align with broader organizational goals and possess strong understanding of digital and social media strategy and management. *This is a term assignment for 18-months*Responsibilities Strategic Communication Execute communications strategy and deliver on set goals and objectives.

Provide leadership and direction to the Communications team, including goal setting, coaching, development, and performance management.

Collaborate across teams to develop a strong, consistent voice for Surrey Schools.

Foster a cooperative and supportive work environment that encourages teamwork and professional growth.

Media Relations and Issues Management

Lead media relations and provide issues management support to Trustees and the Executive team.

Create various media materials, including but not limited to key messages, fact sheets, backgrounders, press releases, FAQs and advisories.

Collaborate closely with subject matter experts, external and internal partners for media events and activations.

Build relationships with media in the Metro Vancouver media, including South Asian media.

Serve as the organization’s secondary media contact and spokesperson.

Internal Communications

Develop and execute SD36 internal communications strategy.

Support recruitment and employee engagement campaigns.

Manage and oversee internal communications tools.

Advise leaders on internal communications processes to foster transparent, engaging dialogue and alignment with organizational values and goals.

Establish and monitor KPIs to evaluate the effectiveness of communications and guide decision-making and continuous improvement.





Digital/Social Media Management

Develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive external digital communication campaigns.

Provide oversight of website and all digital communications tools.

Provide direction on multi-platform content strategy and editorial calendar.

Review and expand current social media/digital strategy with additional platforms.QUALIFICATIONSEducation & Experience Master’s degree and/or other advanced accreditation in communications, public relations, or related field.10 to 15 years’ progressive experience in strategic communications, media, issues management, and crisis communications.

An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

Public sector experience preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities Significant leadership experience with the ability to motivate and develop a team through mentorship and coaching.

Crisis communication experience and ability to handle sensitive issues with discretion.

Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate and build trust with diverse groups.

Expert knowledge of the principles and practice of effective communications, media/public relations, and marketing.

The ability to think critically and view issues and challenges from multiple perspectives.

Demonstrated ability to work with others in a consultative and collaborative manner.

Effective decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

Exceptional organizational, project management, and change management skills and proven ability to manage multiple priorities while delivering high-quality results.





Demonstrated commitment to inclusion and belonging and building a caring and respectful workplace.

Knowledge of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy legislation

Financial acumen and demonstrated commitment to fiscally sound and responsible decisions.

Data literacy including the ability to define and apply metrics and analytics to facilitate learning and decision-making.

What we're offering Comprehensive Benefits Package - Extended Medical, Vision and Dental - Life Insurance, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability - Employee Family Assistance Program - Municipal Pension 13 Paid Holidays, plus Sick & Vacation Time Supportive workplace with a positive and productive work environment.

Feel a sense of security and safety to act, speak, and reflect who you are The salary range for this position is $103,613 to $129,516 per year with comprehensive benefits package and Municipal Pension.

Placement in the salary range is determined by an assessment of qualifications and ability to meet the key requirements of the job, and consideration of internal equity comparisons.

The midpoint of the range represents an employee that possesses full job knowledge, qualifications, and experience for the position.

Qualified applicants can apply by clicking the "apply" button to the right of the posting.

The closing date for this position is Friday, October 23, 2026 at 4:00 pm.

Surrey Schools recognizes the importance of accessibility and supporting the diverse needs of our community.

If there is any accommodation you may require for your interview, whether related to accessibility or otherwise, please do not hesitate to advise and we will make every effort to meet your needs.

Note: Successful applicants will be required to consent to a Criminal Records Search prior to employment.

Only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.

To all others, thank you for your interest.

📌 Manager, Communications (British Columbia)
🏢 York Region District School Board
📍 British Columbia