Vice-President, Strategic Communications

Established in 1982, the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) is a Canadian-based (located in Toronto) international research institute with nearly 400 fellows, scholars, and advisors from 130 institutions in 18 countries around the world. CIFAR brings together outstanding researchers from across disciplines and borders to address important challenges facing the world, and supports leading edge research with the potential for global impact. CIFAR’s 12 programs tackle questions across four broad areas: improving human health, creating successful societies, using technology to make life better, and sustaining life on earth. In 2017, CIFAR was chosen by the Canadian government to lead the $125 million Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy.  CIFAR is recognized for its nimbleness and entrepreneurial spirit. The institute has grown significantly – both in terms of reach and impact – and is ready to move to the next level of excellence.

CIFAR seeks a Vice-President, Strategic Communications to provide leadership to the organization’s marketing and communications initiatives. A newly-created role, the Vice-President, Strategic Communications reports to the President and CEO and manages a staff of nine. They will be a key member of CIFAR’s Executive Team, and will have overall responsibility for increasing engagement with key stakeholders (including funders, media, universities and research institutes, governments, and the global research community), and for growing and enhancing CIFAR’s profile and reputation, both nationally and internationally.

The successful candidate will bring 5 to 10 years’ experience in a senior level communications role, with a background in marketing and communications, media relations and public affairs, and a track record of having advanced the reputation and profile of an organization. They will be a highly strategic thinker, an excellent manager, and a collaborative colleague. A graduate degree, strong familiarity with the Canadian research landscape, and oversight of public events will be assets.

Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, but applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. CIFAR is an equal opportunity employer that values the strength that diversity brings to the workplace. CIFAR is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier free recruitment process to applicants with accessibility needs, in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodation during this process, please inform Odgers Berndtson of your requirements.

Consideration of candidates will begin in late September, with the new Vice-President to take office as soon as possible thereafter.  To express an interest, please contact Jason Murray at cifar@odgersberndtson.com


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