Director, Public Relations & Communications - D2L, Canada

Responsibilities

The Director, Public Relations & Communications is responsible for leading the execution and ongoing evolution of D2L's global PR and communications strategy, shaping how mission, values, AI leadership, and customer wins are communicated to the market.

• Develop and execute PR and communications plans aligned with the broader corporate and Marketing strategy.
• Provide strategic communications counsel to senior and executive leaders on reputation management, crisis communications, and media relations.
• Apply AI to monitor potential brand reputation risks, misinformation, sensitive issues, and changes in public conversation.
• Use generative AI to accelerate research, story development, media pitches, executive briefs, speeches, thought leadership, Q&As, LLM brand visibility, and campaign content.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with media outlets, journalists, and industry influencers.
• Drive proactive media outreach and secure high-impact coverage in top-tier publications.
• Manage press releases, media statements, and industry awards.
• Oversee executive speaking engagements and leadership presentation opportunities, with a particular focus on AI leadership in learning.
• Develop and maintain crisis communication protocols.
• Support or act as a company spokesperson, as appropriate, during critical situations and ensure timely, transparent communication.
• Prepare and coach senior and executive leaders for crisis communications, media engagement, and rapid response situations.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing PR and communications team.
• Manage PR and communications budgets, agency partnerships, and resources to deliver against priorities and measurable outcomes.
• Identify, evaluate, and implement emerging AI tools that improve communications operations without compromising editorial quality or brand trust.

Who we're looking for

We are seeking a candidate with strong competencies, skills, and experience in public relations, corporate communications, and AI integration.

• Proven success in managing media relations, media strategies, and crisis communications.
• Exceptional writing, storytelling, and presentation skills.
• Strong analytical skills with experience using metrics to inform brand strategy.
• Demonstrated experience integrating AI into PR, corporate communications, media relations, executive communications, content development, or communications analytics.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and influence at senior levels.
• Experience leading PR/Comms in a fast-paced SaaS environment.
• Familiarity with AI narratives, media relations, social media marketing, and integrated communications strategies.
• Global communications and reputation management experience is a plus.
• Bachelor's degree in communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field; Master's preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in PR and strategic communications, including experience in B2B and leading teams and complex communications programs.
• Acumen with Artificial Intelligence tools.
• Strong network of media and leadership contacts, with a preference for learning industry and/or AI experts.
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing integrated communications programs with measurable business and reputation outcomes.

About the employer

D2L is a cloud company that is modernizing education and building the Future of Work. As old models of teaching and learning undergo the largest transformation in history, D2L provides next-generation learning environments and solutions that empower personalized, student-centric experiences across schools, campuses, and companies globally.

Why you'll love it here

At D2L, we are dedicated to providing you with the tools to do the best work of your life through #LifeAtD2L.

• Impactful work transforming the way the world learns
• Flexible work arrangements
• Learning and Growth opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement of up to $4,000 CAD for continuing education through our SkillsWave Program
• 2 Paid Days off for SkillsWave-related activities like exams or final assignments
• Employee wellbeing including access to mental health services, EFAP program, and financial planning
• Retirement planning
• 2 Paid Volunteer Days
• Competitive Benefits Package
• Home Internet Reimbursements
• Employee Referral Program
• Wellness Reimbursement
• Employee Recognition
• Social Events
• Dog friendly office spaces at our HQ in Kitchener, Winnipeg, Vancouver and Melbourne offices