Director of Communications - PCNL

Last week we had an exciting election win in Newfoundland and Labrador. After what many had predicted would be a Liberal re-election, Tony Wakeham and his PC team were rewarded with a majority mandate from voters. They are looking for a key addition to their team. If the Director of Communications position below sounds like something you would be interested in, please apply. If it sounds like a good fit for someone you know, please pass it along!

Job Title: Director of Communications
Office of the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
Location: St. John’s, NL
Position Type: Full-time

Position Overview

The Office of the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Communications to lead the government’s communications strategy during the transition and throughout the Premier’s mandate. Reporting directly to the Premier and Chief of Staff, the Director will oversee all strategic messaging, media relations, issues management, and public engagement activities to ensure clear, consistent, and proactive communication with the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement an integrated communications strategy that reflects the Premier’s priorities and vision for the province.

  • Serve as the Premier’s principal advisor on communications, media, and public relations.

  • Oversee all messaging, speechwriting, media releases, digital content, and briefing materials for the Premier and senior officials.

  • Oversee the roll-out of major government announcements including the Speech from the Throne and Provincial Budget.

  • Serve as a senior advisor and counsel to members of the Executive Council as it relates to their communications responsibilities.

  • Manage the day-to-day operations of the Communications Office, including media relations, social media, and stakeholder engagement.

    • Coordinate communications across departments to ensure consistency of government messaging and timely response to emerging issues, in consultation with the Communications Branch  

  • Lead issues management planning, including rapid-response communications.

  • Serve as the Premier's Office point of contact for all advertising and market research-related activities.

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with media, senior public servants, and key stakeholders.

  • Supervise a team of communications professionals, fostering collaboration, creativity, and accountability.

Qualifications

  • 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in communications, media relations, or public affairs, preferably in a political, governmental, or corporate environment.

  • Proven leadership experience managing teams and complex communications operations.

  • Strong strategic thinking, writing, and editing skills, with a demonstrated ability to craft clear and persuasive messaging.

  • Experience advising senior executives or elected officials in high-profile, fast-paced environments.

  • Exceptional judgment, discretion, and the ability to operate effectively under pressure.

  • Versed in social media and digital communications.

  • Deep understanding of Newfoundland and Labrador’s media landscape and political context is a significant asset.

  • Post-secondary degree in communications, public relations, political science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Personal Attributes

  • Strategic and politically astute communicator

  • Collaborative leader with strong interpersonal skills

  • Highly organized, adaptable, and results-oriented

  • Committed to public service and the values of transparency and accountability

Application Process

Qualified applicants are invited to submit a cover letter and résumé in confidence to the Office of the Premier, Attention: Steve Outhouse, Transition Team, by 5pm NDT, Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at [email protected].