Director of Public Affairs

Position Summary

The Canadian Bar Association (CBA), the voice of the legal profession in Canada, is seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Public Affairs to lead its public-facing communications and government relations efforts. Reporting directly to the CEO, this senior leadership role will shape and amplify the CBA’s voice on critical legal and justice issues in Canada.

The successful candidate will provide strategic direction and hands-on leadership in media relations, speechwriting, executive communications, digital engagement, publications, and stakeholder outreach, ensuring alignment with the CBA’s mission and values.

Location

66 Slater Street, Suite 1200, Ottawa, ON

Languages

Fluent bilingual skills, both written and oral, are required.

Annual Salary

$110,000 - $125,000 per year

Job Responsibilites

• Develop and implement integrated public affairs strategies that advance the CBA’s vision and advocacy objectives.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO, executive team, and CBA President on all public-facing communications and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Manage crisis communications and serve as the senior media spokesperson when required.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with key journalists, editors, and media outlets across Canada.
• Draft and oversee the distribution of press releases, op-eds, media statements, and briefings.
• Monitor media coverage and public discourse to identify opportunities and risks for the CBA.
• Write speeches, briefing notes, opinion pieces, and remarks for the CEO and other senior leaders.
• Support the development of clear, persuasive, and impactful messaging for external and internal audiences.
• Oversee the creation of original content for newsletters, publications, and digital platforms that reflects the voice and priorities of the CBA.
• Ensure editorial quality and strategic alignment across all content.
• Direct the development of a compelling and cohesive social media strategy to enhance engagement and grow the CBA’s digital footprint.
• Analyze digital metrics and trends to refine outreach tactics and measure impact.
• Collaborate with policy and advocacy teams to engage government officials, agencies, and other stakeholders on legal and justice matters.
• Provide support for CBA leadership and other spokespeople at external events, meetings, and conferences, including preparation of briefing materials, talking points, and follow-up messaging.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, political science, journalism, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).

Experience

Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive experience in public affairs, communications, or media relations, preferably within a national organization or membership association.

Skills and Abilities

• Proven success in managing media relations, content strategy, executive communications, and digital platforms.
• Superior writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with experience in speechwriting and publication management.
• Strategic thinker with a collaborative mindset and experience advising senior leadership.
• Knowledge of:
  • Kentico 10
  • Lyris
  • Adobe CC products
  • Dreamweaver and Photoshop
  • Microsoft Office

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter and resume.

We sincerely thank all applicants for their interest. However, we will only contact those under consideration. All applicants are encouraged to join the CBA Talent Community which establishes a list that may be considered for similar positions of various tenures.

The CBA is committed to the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in its learning, work environments, and in its operations. We encourage applications from traditionally marginalized groups. We believe in and promote the rights of all persons with disabilities as outlined in the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA 2005) and its related Accessibility Standards Regulations. To meet this obligation, the CBA will make appropriate accommodations available upon request. Please inform the CBA, in advance, of the need for accommodation(s) during the recruitment and selection process to ensure your equal participation. Requests can be made by email to HR (@) cba.org.

No Agency, please.