Introduction
The Ottawa Board of Trade (OBOT) is a non-partisan, non-profit organization independent from the government, dedicated to supporting the private sector in the greater Ottawa area. Established in 1857, OBOT is one of Canada’s oldest Boards of Trade and serves as a trusted, authoritative voice for businesses of all sizes and sectors. With a mission to cultivate a thriving, world-class business community, OBOT actively advocates for effective policymaking aimed at fostering economic growth and prosperity locally, provincially, and nationally.
OBOT’s strategic priorities emphasize reducing barriers to business, creating new opportunities for the region, and fostering inclusivity and resilience. By working closely with members, partners, and government entities, OBOT leads initiatives like the Downtown Agenda, equity, diversity, and inclusion programs, and Build Up Ottawa. These efforts are complemented by a commitment to collaboration with key stakeholders, including Ottawa Tourism, Invest Ottawa, and community organizations, ensuring a unified vision for economic vitality.
Guided by its values of collaboration, determination, future thinking, integrity, and passion, OBOT builds on a legacy of over 150 years of advocating for business interests while adapting to the evolving economic landscape. Its 2024-2025 strategic plan focuses on increasing impact through enhanced membership engagement, advocacy clarity, and integrated partnerships to meet the challenges of a dynamic market.
Summary of the Role
Reporting to the CEO, the Director, Communications & Integrated Marketing, will lead the development and implementation of comprehensive marketing and communication strategies that align with OBOT’s strategic goals. This role is instrumental in increasing OBOT’s visibility, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and advancing advocacy initiatives.
As the Director, Communications & Integrated Marketing, you will oversee the implementation of a content marketing strategy that reflects OBOT’s value propositions while leading public awareness campaigns to promote key advocacy priorities. The role also includes enhancing OBOT’s digital presence through optimized website functionality, increased use of social media platforms, and expanded email marketing efforts. Additionally, you will manage communications for high-profile events such as the Mayor’s Breakfasts, Economic Outlook forums, and the Build Up Ottawa campaign to ensure alignment with OBOT’s advocacy and member engagement goals.
You will ensure OBOT’s communications amplify its priorities, including the Downtown Agenda, housing solutions, workforce development, and equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives. By leveraging a range of communication channels and creating compelling narratives, you will help OBOT strengthen its position as a leader in advocacy and innovation.
Is This for You?
The ideal candidate for this position is a seasoned professional in marketing and communications with a proven track record of delivering impactful campaigns that drive engagement and visibility. You should possess a deep expertise in digital marketing, public relations, and brand building, coupled with a strong ability to align content creation with organizational priorities.
Your experience will encompass managing integrated campaigns across various platforms, including social media, traditional media, and event marketing. You will have a keen understanding of how to leverage these channels effectively to maximize reach and engagement. A solid background in website optimization is essential, along with proficiency in content creation and analytics to measure success and inform future strategies.
An educational background in marketing, communications, or a related field is preferred, and familiarity with nonprofit organizations, economic development, or membership-driven groups will be considered a significant asset. This knowledge will enable you to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities within the sector, ensuring that your strategies are both relevant and impactful.
Your strategic thinking and innovative mindset will allow you to develop creative solutions that address the evolving needs of OBOT’s members and the community. You thrive in dynamic environments where adaptability and hands-on involvement are essential, and you are committed to continuous learning and improvement. Your enthusiasm for building relationships and engaging with various audiences will be instrumental in enhancing OBOT’s visibility and impact within the Ottawa business landscape.
