Director of Communications - Southern Chiefs' Organization

Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) represents 33 Anishinaabe and Dakota Nations in southern Manitoba. Their mission is to protect, preserve, promote, and enhance First Nations peoples' inherent rights, languages, customs, and laws. SCO is committed to advancing the health, rights, and well-being of First Nations in Manitoba through advocacy, policy development, and program delivery. Their organization is rooted in Indigenous leadership and provides a platform for promoting positive change in the political, social, and economic landscape of First Nations in Manitoba.SCO is committed to fostering a collaborative, respectful, and engaged culture. Every team member at SCO is dedicated to their work and shares a deep belief in the organization's mission. To support this growth, SCO is seeking a Director of Communications who will lead their efforts in promoting the voices of First Nations communities.The Director of Communications will oversee and guide the communications team and strategy for SCO, ensuring that SCO’s message and the voices of its member Nations are effectively communicated to First Nations citizens, stakeholders, funders, and the broader public.The Director of Communications plays a critical leadership role in developing proactive communication strategies and guiding the team in delivering media relations, public information, and publications services. Additionally, the Director will collaborate with the Grand Chief and senior leadership, providing media support and ensuring SCO’s communications align with its mission, goals, and initiatives.Key Responsibilities:Lead, mentor, and develop the communications team, including overseeing recruitment, training, and performance management.Develop and implement a strategic communications plan to amplify SCO’s message and key initiatives, including public awareness campaigns.Oversee media relations and ensure timely handling of media requests and inquiries, acting as a liaison when necessary.Lead the design and development of all communications content, including press releases, newsletters, reports, and social media.Develop and implement SCO’s social media strategy, managing platforms, and monitoring media for opportunities to engage and respond.Collaborate with external agencies and design firms to produce branded materials for events, campaigns, and community outreach.Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and collaboration across all SCO departments.Report on communications milestones, analytics, and outcomes, proposing new strategies to enhance audience engagement and reach.Qualifications Required:Degree or diploma in communications (journalism, marketing) or equivalent experience, with at least 5 years of leadership experience in communications.Proven ability to develop and implement strategic communication plans.Strong political and business acumen with knowledge of First Nations culture, challenges, and political landscape.Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with experience in creating press releases, op-eds, reports, and social content.Demonstrated proficiency in digital marketing, social media management, and website content creation.Experience building relationships with media and handling media requests.Proven leadership skills, with experience managing a diverse team and working collaboratively across departments.Knowledge of Anishinaabe or Dakota language is an asset.Why Join Southern Chiefs’ Organization?At SCO, they foster a respectful, collaborative, and dedicated workplace culture. Their team is committed to the work they do and to supporting one another. They believe in amplifying First Nations voices and contributing to the advancement of Indigenous rights and well-being. The Director of Communications will play a pivotal role in guiding the public voice of SCO and its member Nations.Learn more at: www.scoinc.mb.ca