Director, Communications and Strategic Planning

Overview

JOB DESCRIPTION Lead Communications for Canada's National Shipbuilder at a Defining Moment As Canada's National Shipbuilder and North America's most modern naval shipbuilding and in‑service support provider, Irving Shipbuilding plays a central role in strengthening Canada's defence capability and industrial future. Headquartered in Halifax, Irving Shipbuilding has constructed more than 80% of Canada's current naval fleet and leads major national programs under the National Shipbuilding Strategy, including the Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships and the future River‑class destroyer fleet. With a transformed, state‑of‑the‑art shipyard, a highly skilled workforce, and a coast‑to‑coast supply chain, Irving Shipbuilding is an engine of economic impact, innovation, and national readiness for decades to come. Irving Shipbuilding is now seeking its next

Director of Communications and Strategic Planning , a strategic, credible, and forward‑thinking leader who will continue to shape how this national industrial success story is understood internally, across partners, and throughout Canada. The opportunity As a key leader within an integrated portfolio spanning communications and strategic planning, the Director of Communications and Strategic Planning will help shape how Irving Shipbuilding communicates its purpose, progress, and performance. Operating at the heart of Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy, this role is central to connecting strategy with execution across a large, complex, and high ‑ visibility environment. This is a unique opportunity to influence a national industrial program at scale, strengthening trust, cohesion, and shared direction across a critical Canadian enterprise. Responsibilities

As Director of Communications and Strategic Planning, provide enterprise‑wide leadership for internal and external communications and the integration of strategic planning into the communications function. Deeply connected to operations, ensure communications are intentional, credible, and closely aligned with organizational priorities and operating plans. Lead the development of clear, people‑centred internal communications that support a strong, connected culture, ensuring the workforce understands annual priorities, performance expectations, and strategic direction. Externally, guide disciplined, performance‑based communications that reinforce Irving Shipbuilding's role as a trusted national partner to the Government of Canada. Act as a visible, trusted advisor, build strong relationships across the senior leadership team and with key external partners. Translate complex priorities into compelling narratives, foster cross‑functional dialogue, and help leaders understand not only what should be communicated, but when and why. Steward a high‑performing communications team, establishing standards of clarity, accountability, and continuous improvement. Qualifications

Accomplished communications leader with significant experience in large, operationally intensive, and highly regulated environments, ideally within industrial, defence, manufacturing, or other complex private‑sector settings. Understanding of leading communications in environments defined by scale, operational tempo, and a mix of unionized and non‑unionized workforces, with strong business acumen to connect operational reality with coherent, forward‑looking communications strategies. Disciplined and intentional communicator who delivers measured, credible messaging that reinforces organizational priorities, and excels at building trusting, influential relationships with executives, operational leaders, and cross‑functional partners. Strong people leader, capable of developing and motivating high‑performing teams with clarity, accountability, and shared purpose, while fostering collaboration and continuous improvement. Resilient, steady, and present in fast‑paced, high‑visibility environments; able to navigate ambiguity with confidence and provide sound counsel during moments of complexity. Energy, judgment, and strategic perspective to translate strategy, performance, and complex priorities into clear, compelling narratives that drive alignment, execution, and long‑term organizational success. How to Apply

If you are interested in pursuing this exciting opportunity, please apply online via KBRS's website at http://www.kbrs.ca/Career/17697192264190000008dAi. For more information or to ask any questions, please contact Daniella Sam at dsam@kbrs.ca, Katherine Risley at krisley@kbrs.ca, or Erin MacDonald at emacdonald@kbrs.ca. Inclusion and Accessibility

Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply. Irving Shipbuilding is committed to creating accessible environments for all colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. Candidates are encouraged to make their accommodation needs known so that Irving Shipbuilding can provide equitable opportunities. Should you require an accommodation to participate fully in the recruitment process, please let us know at accommodate@kbrs.ca. About Us

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) has operations in Canada and the United States and are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions. We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities. Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply. About the Team

Irving Shipbuilding is proud to be Canada's National Shipbuilder. Our team is constructing more than 20 modern patrol ships and destroyers for the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Coast Guard as part of the largest defence procurement project in Canadian history. By joining our team of more than 2,400 shipbuilders, you can enjoy a dynamic and exciting career with a company dedicated to your success, development, and safety. At Irving Shipbuilding, we\'re making history - why not make it with us? Learn more about careers at Irving Shipbuilding: shipsforcanada.ca/opportunities. We invite applications from all qualified candidates, including racially visible persons, women in underrepresented roles, persons with disabilities, Indigenous persons, and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and encourage applicants to self‑identify.

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