Deputy Minister, Government Communications and Public Engagement

The BC Public Service exists to serve the needs of more than 5 million British Columbians through a wider and more diverse set of programs and services than any other organization in the province. The organization .5has one overarching corporate value – Integrity – and six core corporate values: Curiosity, Service, Passion, Teamwork, Accountability, and Courage. These principles describe the qualities it values in its colleagues and across the organization. 

As part of the BC Public Service, the team within Government Communications and Public Engagement (GCPE) informs the public about government programs, services, policies, and priorities through a wide range of communication practices and channels, including events, media relations, advertising, direct engagement, digital services and more. 

The Deputy Minister, Government Communications and Public Engagement leads a team of 250 professional public servants who work across all Ministries to provide advice, support and a high level of service to ensure messages are accurately and effectively portrayed to key audiences. As a member of government's executive team, the Deputy Minister supports the Deputy Minister to the Premier by contributing to policy development, planning, implementation, and communication of cross-ministry initiatives and government priorities. They work directly with the Director of Communications in the Premier’s Office, who is responsible for the strategic direction of government communications, to ensure that communications across government reflects cabinet priorities and needs. Reporting to the Minister of Finance, they also provide advice, guidance and support to the Premier and other elected officials to ensure the alignment of policies and associated communications tactics and products reflects the direction of government. 

 

As the ideal candidate, you are a highly capable and trusted advisor, bringing direct experience leading a progressive communications function within a multi-layered, multi-partner, diverse and complex organization. A passionate senior leader who has successfully led large teams of professionals, you bring the ability to work across multiple ministries or departments to develop a cohesive and comprehensive communications strategy that ensures key messages are conveyed to the right audiences through the most effective platforms and vehicles. You are highly responsive and also bring an ability to look forward and create proactive strategies, while being flexible and nimble to respond to current issues and events. As a capable and experienced non-partisan executive, you are known for your inclusive nature which embraces diversity of opinion and cultures. In addition, you bring the relationship skills and emotional intelligence which will render you successful in working with elected officials and senior public servants with a wide range of backgrounds.

 

This is a highly challenging and rewarding opportunity to really make positive impacts in the province. The BC Public Service is committed to creating a diverse workplace to represent the population it serves and to better meet the needs of citizens. Consider joining this innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace and send your résumé and covering letter to Shelina Esmail and Allison Rzen at PFM Executive Search.