York University

Director of Communications, Office of the President

York University recognizes that many Indigenous Nations have longstanding relationships with the territories upon which York University campuses are located that precede the establishment of York University. York University acknowledges its presence on the traditional territory of many Indigenous Nations. The area known as Tkaronto has been care taken by the Anishinabek Nation, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, and the Huron-Wendat. It is now home to many First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities. We acknowledge the current treaty holders, the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. This territory is subject of the Dish with One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, an agreement to peaceably share and care for the Great Lakes region.

With a distinguished history and a reputation for innovation celebrated both nationally and internationally, this is an exciting time for York University. This past year alone, its Markham Campus was launched, a new stand-alone art gallery was opened, and the Ministry of Colleges and Universities confirmed their support for a York University School of Medicine to open in 2028 focused on primary health care with a $9M development grant. In 2025-2026, consultations will begin on the new Academic Plan with the goal of furthering the University’s upward trajectory over the next 5 years. Against this backdrop, York University invites nominations and applications for the role of Director of Communications, Office of the President—a pivotal role for a strategic leader to further shape the University’s narrative and make a lasting impact on its next chapter of growth and achievement.

The Director leads communication initiatives for the President and Vice-Chancellor and for the Office of the President, ensuring that initiatives developed within the President’s Office are integrated with the broader communication ecosystem of the University. The Director is responsible for developing an annual communication plan and writing compelling content for internal and external audiences—including statements, speeches, presentations, op-eds, and thought leadership pieces—that support the President in effectively communicating York U’s vision, strengths, and achievements to local audiences and on the global stage. Working closely with colleagues across the institution, the Director drives awareness and engagement while maintaining a collaborative working relationship with the University’s Chief Communications and Marketing Officer and the Office of Communications & Public Affairs.

Qualifications

Among the qualifications being sought in candidates, the incoming Director of Communications must have a deep and abiding commitment to advancing reconciliation, equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in all its forms and must believe, intrinsically, in the importance of leading with curiosity and welcoming ideas that can later be synthesized and turned into possibility. While all candidates are encouraged to apply and, in so doing, share how they see themselves adding value to the York University environment, the following credentials and/or experiences are seen as possible markers of the candidates most likely to realize success in the role:

A) a university degree in English, Communications, or a related field, with a Master's degree seen as an asset;

B) five years of experience in senior communications roles, with hands-on expertise in executive-level communications, preferably gained within a post-secondary environment or broader public sector;

C) a deep understanding of, or the ability to quickly develop a strong appreciation for, the University’s organizational structure, policies, academic priorities, and strategic communications practices;

D) extensive knowledge of contemporary communications in the current external context (social, political, post-secondary sector) and a proven ability to navigate the diverse range of tools, platforms, technology and styles used to effectively engage audiences;

E) superior writing, grammar, and editing skills, with the ability to produce clear, engaging, and compelling content for a variety of audiences, all while maintaining consistency with institutional messaging and tone; and

F) a strategic mindset and sound judgment, the capacity to manage multiple competing projects all while maintaining a high degree of confidentiality, the ability to work collaboratively with a range of audiences including senior leaders, and exceptional project management, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Compensation and Work Arrangements

York's CPM Compensation Framework has a salary grid consisting of 6 or 8 steps (depending on job grade) which is reviewed annually with possible adjustments, and a lump sum Performance Based Recognition Award. Employees will receive the grid adjustment depending on performance, eligible permanent employees may move to the next step of the grid and may receive a lump sum Performance Based Recognition Award at the year end. Visit the CPM Compensation page on the HR Website to find out more about York's CPM Compensation Program.

York is committed to ensuring the way we work serves our diverse community and advances our commitment to Living Well Together, one of the Six Priorities for Action in the University Academic Plan. As part of this commitment, the University has implemented a Hybrid Work Policy.  

The selected incumbent for this role is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement which will be confirmed based on operational requirements.  

How to Apply

The University welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, including, but not limited to women, persons with disabilities, visible minorities (racialized), Indigenous Peoples and persons of any gender identity and sexual orientation. York University is committed to a positive, supportive, and inclusive environment.

York University is partnering with BIPOC Executive Search to help further increase the diversity/plurality of the candidate pool. All interested applicants are encouraged to apply by emailing Jason Murray () and/or Helen Mekonen ().

In accordance with the AODA Act, for applicants living with a disability, accommodation will be provided throughout the search process. Should accommodations be required, please make Helen Mekonen aware by emailing the email address above.

We thank everyone for their expression of interest—and are truly appreciative of the time individuals put into applying—but with the limitations of time only those selected for an interview will be contacted.