Director, Corporate Affairs & Communications

Position Profile – Director, Corporate Affairs & Communications 

THE COMPANY 

The Electricity Distributors Association (EDA) is the voice of Ontario’s local electricity distributors, the publicly and privately owned companies that safely and reliably deliver electricity to almost 5 million Ontario homes, businesses and public institutions. 

The EDA provides members with advocacy and representation in the legislative and regulatory environment and the electricity market in Ontario.  In addition, members receive up-to-date information, expert analysis of relevant legislation and market rules, with a particular focus on regulation.  Members also have the opportunity to network with professional and industry colleagues. 

The EDA’s mission statement is to provide utility distribution companies with the valued industry knowledge, networking opportunities and collective action vital to the business success of each member. 

THE OPPORTUNITY 

Reporting to the Vice President, Policy & Government Affairs, the incumbent is responsible for managing corporate affairs, communications and media relations. This important role provides support to the President & Chief Executive Officer with respect to corporate and board affairs, while the communications and media relations aspect of the role are pivotal in engaging the members, stakeholders, media and public at large in better understanding the Association’s public policy positions. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

Corporate & Board Affairs

• Leads strategic, business & operational planning activities including weekly manager meetings
• Monitors adherence to governance framework including maintenance of By Laws and Guidelines
• Manages the Board/Committee/District election & nomination processes to ensure adherence to Bylaws
• Acts as recording secretary for AGM, Board and Committees of the Board including minute taking, agenda & material preparation, action follow up, etc.
• Oversees monitoring of issues emanating from committees, councils and coordinates presentations to Board
• Responds to all correspondence and inquiries relating to the Board of Directors (i.e. Board Chair announcements, requests for Chair to speak, Board Chair schedule, Board correspondence, etc.)

Communications& Media Relations

• Develops corporate communication strategies and plans to support strategic directions
• Responsible for writing internal and external communication material (i.e. annual report, corporate brochure, publications, articles, op-eds, speeches and letters to the editor, etc.) 
• Develops & executes media plans including delivery of a wide range of public relations activities such as press conferences, photo opportunities, media visits etc.
• Oversees production of daily media/wire scan & issue monitoring
• Works with the CEO and Board Members to arrange & brief for media appearances 

Unit Management

• Directs coordinator’s work
• Leads budget development and adherence to budgets for portfolio area
• Oversees contracts, activities and relationships of external consultants/service providers for portfolio area
• Other duties as assigned 

THE CANDIDATE

Experience 

The ideal candidate will possess the following skills, knowledge, and attributes: 

• An undergraduate degree in English, Communications, Journalism, Public or Media Relations or equivalent experience
• 8 – 10 years’ experience gained in a management role with a demonstrated ability to motivate staff
• Association experience and knowledge of electricity industry issues an asset
• Demonstrated track record working with senior level executives/Board members/committees
• Demonstrated proficiency working with media, e-communications including social media applications
• Excellent writing & editing  skills including minute taking, speech & business correspondence writing
• Strong knowledge of all Microsoft Office applications along with experience using InDesign,  Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop in a Windows environment
• Strong organizational and project management skills 

Personal Attributes 

The ideal candidate will have the following attributes: 

• Comfortable working in a demanding environment with high standards
• Results oriented
• Flexibility and resiliency
• Business maturity combined with confidence dealing at the senior level
• A unwavering commitment to excellence
• A hands-on approach
• Ability to use moral suasion in a diplomatic manner
• A strategic approach to communications 

THE OPPORTUNITY 

This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly respected association that plays a significant role in the electricity industry in Ontario.  In this regard, the EDA is committed to collaboration, results, continuous improvement, customer service and innovation where careers are built and employees can develop to their fullest potential.  If you are interested in becoming a major contributor in a fast-paced and highly professional association please contact Amy Roberts at aroberts@knightsbridge.com

March 19, 2015