Lead, Strategic Initiatives & EngagementToronto, ON (Hybrid - Onsite Tuesday to Thursday)Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PMOccasional evening calls (1-2 times per month) may be requiredPotential for Permanent ConversionAbout the OpportunityA leading financial services organization is seeking a Lead, Strategic Initiatives & Engagement to support the planning, execution, and delivery of high-profile brand, community impact, and corporate engagement initiatives.This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned skilled who can balance strategic thinking with hands‑on execution. While strong project management capabilities are required, this is not a traditional Project Manager role. The successful candidate will lead initiatives from concept to completion, navigate ambiguity, influence stakeholders, and drive meaningful outcomes across multiple teams.Key ResponsibilitiesLead strategic initiatives, engagement programs, and enterprise‑wide campaigns from planning through execution.Manage multiple concurrent workstreams while ensuring alignment with business priorities.Develop project plans, governance structures, timelines, budgets, risk management plans, and success metrics.Coordinate stakeholders across business functions, leadership teams, external partners, agencies, and vendors.Support executive engagement activities, presentations, and communications.Facilitate workshops, planning sessions, governance reviews, and decision‑making forums.Track milestones, budgets, risks,



and dependencies.Identify opportunities to improve operational effectiveness and program delivery.Contribute both strategically and operationally to ensure successful execution of key initiatives.Example InitiativesCommunity partnership and impact programsBrand and customer trust initiativesMental health and awareness campaignsEnterprise‑wide social impact programsRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Corporate Affairs, Social Impact, or a related field.10+ years of experience leading complex strategic initiatives, programs, or enterprise‑wide projects.Strong program and project management experience managing multiple priorities simultaneously.Advanced stakeholder management experience within large, matrixed organizations.Experience developing governance frameworks, strategic plans, budgets, risk management processes, and performance measurements.Exceptional communication, relationship‑building, and presentation skills.Proven ability to influence stakeholders and drive alignment without formal authority.Ideal Candidate ProfileThe successful candidate will bring a blend of:Strategic thinking and hands‑on executionProgram and initiative leadership experienceMarketing, communications, campaign management, or brand experienceCommunity investment, CSR, corporate affairs, or social impact experienceEmployee engagement program experienceExecutive‑facing presentation and communication skillsExperience working within large, complex organizationsStrong problem‑solving and decision‑making abilitiesAdaptability and comfort working in changing and ambiguous environmentsExperience managing multiple high‑priority initiatives simultaneouslyUser-level familiarity with AI tools and workplace applicationsNice‑to‑Have ExperienceFinancial services, banking,



or insurance industry experienceExperience managing agencies, vendors, PR firms, or creative partnersExposure to global stakeholders and cross‑regional collaborationSocial media and campaign experienceExperience supporting high‑visibility enterprise initiativesGlobal transformation or change management experienceWhat Success Looks LikeDelivery of strategic initiatives on time and within scopeStrong stakeholder engagement and satisfactionImproved execution discipline and operational effectivenessAchievement of measurable business, brand, community, and engagement outcomesSuccessful collaboration across multiple teams and stakeholder groupsWhy Apply?Lead highly visible strategic initiativesWork closely with senior leaders and executive stakeholdersDrive meaningful community, brand, and engagement outcomesInfluence enterprise‑wide programs and prioritiesJoin a collaborative, fast‑paced, and purpose‑driven environmentOpportunity for contract extension and permanent conversionHybrid work arrangement (3 days onsite).Primarily focused on Canadian initiatives with some collaboration across North America and other global regions.Minimal travel expected.Occasional meetings outside regular business hours may be required.Opportunity to independently own key initiatives while contributing to larger team objectives.Interview ProcessRound 2: Final virtual interview (45 minutes)We're looking for candidates who combine strategy, stakeholder engagement, communications, and execution. If you've successfully led complex initiatives in large organizations and enjoy turning ideas into action, we'd love to hear from you.Use AI for Hiring : Our recruitment process for this role includes the use of AI-based tools to help evaluate candidate qualifications and screen applications.#J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Strategic Program Lead (Toronto)
🏢 Kelly
📍 Toronto