Manager, Communications at Regional District of Central Okanagan

Manager, Communications

Kelowna

Closes: 2026-08-13

Overview

The Manager, Communications develops corporate communications strategies and coordinates the media relations program for the Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO). Providing strategic communication advice to senior leaders, RDCO departments, municipal partners and syilx communities, this position contributes to maintaining positive community, media and government relations. This position is responsible for proactive issues management and acts as the first point of contact for local media.

Responsibilities

• Provide advice and strategic communication support to departments within the RDCO for specific programs, special events and public relations.
• Develop communications strategies and marketing programs to assist and RDCO service areas.
• When directed by the CAO, prepare speeches, speaking notes and key messages for the Regional Board Chair, Chief Administrative Officer, Board Directors and media spokespeople.
• Prepare presentations, documents, reports, newsletters and communication collateral including the RDCO’s annual report.
• Provide proactive issues management and related strategies and coordinate organizational outreach activities.
• Liaise with staff, agencies, interest groups, and the media to maximize communication effectiveness as it relates to regional services and issues.
• Act as the media relations officer to coordinate RDCO’s media relations program including monitoring, training and preparing RDCO staff and acting as a corporate spokesperson.
• During emergencies or other high-impact events, fulfill the duties of the Lead Public Information Officer and/or support the communication requirements as neededCoordinate RDCO advertising and contracts. Assist RDCO departments as necessary and coordinate for regional programs, in collaboration with partner local governments and syilx communities to ensure consistent messaging.
• Oversee ongoing maintenance and content development of the RDCO internet website, internal “intranet” and social media channels with the assistance of the Communications Advisor (Digital) and input from RDCO departments.
• Research, track, and communicate to senior leaders matters related to issues and changes in Local Government in BC, regarding Provincial Intergovernmental Affairs, labour negotiations, funding announcements and Truth and Reconciliation.
• Maintain a positive working relationship with syilx Okanagan communities, partners municipalities, industry, other levels of government and local government professional organizations.
• Ensure communications activities align with RDCO Strategic Priorities including create, plan, manage and monitor annual operational workplans, assign work activities and projects, conduct performance management of direct reports.

Qualifications

• Communications, Public Relations or related post-secondary degree.
• A minimum of seven years of progressive related experience leading, developing and delivering communication strategies.
• Certification in public engagement (IAP2) or equivalent work experience.
• Media relations experience including acting in a spokesperson role.
• Valid BC Driver’s Licence
• Strong writing skills along with an understanding of news writing style and adherence to Canadian Press style guide.
• Sound judgement, strong strategic communication, collaboration, negotiation, conflict resolution, critical thinking and leadership skills.
• Demonstrated ability in team management, change leadership, relationship and credibility building, issues management, public and staff engagement and client services.
• Strong digital skills including use of MS Office, content management systems, social media platforms, media and social media monitoring software.
• High level of interpersonal skills with the ability to lead and influence external stakeholders and staff across all levels of the organization.

Work Experience

Employment Level

Full-time

Work Conditions

Physical Effort: Seated position for most of the day with flexibility to move when desired

Physical Environment: 70% Office environment, 30% field work.

Mental Stress: Respond to media inquiries with short timelines for communications including during emergency situations and after hours.

Sensory Attention: Publicize accurate, well researched information with necessary approvals before it is made public.

Equity Statement

Additional Information

In accordance with BC's Pay Transparency Act, the salary range for this position is $118,295.50 (min) to $131,428.00 (mid) $144,560.50 (max) annually, plus a comprehensive benefits package. It is the RDCO’s philosophy to pay in the middle of the range for a fully qualified applicant.