Director of Communications (Calgary or Edmonton)

About Us: 

Wellspring Alberta is a charitable organization affiliated with the Wellspring Cancer Support Foundation, dedicated to supporting, educating, and empowering individuals living with cancer, as well as their caregivers and families. 

We offer a wide range of evidence-informed programs and services, all provided at no cost, to help navigate the many challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. 

Our vision is that no one has to face cancer alone. 

Wellspring Alberta’s work is made possible through the generous donations of individuals, corporations, foundations, and grassroots fundraisers, and with the efforts of committed volunteers, dedicated staff, and skilled contracted program leaders. 

The Opportunity:  

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Director of Communications plays a pivotal leadership role in advancing Wellspring Alberta’s mission to ensure that no one has to face cancer alone.    

This position is responsible for shaping and amplifying the organization’s voice and visibility across the province, ensuring that Wellspring’s programs, impact, and needs are clearly understood by members, donors, partners, and the broader public. 

Through strategic storytelling, media engagement, brand stewardship, and digital innovation, the Director of Communications helps build strong emotional and intellectual connections with stakeholders. These connections are critical for member engagement, community outreach, donor growth, healthcare partnerships, and long-term sustainability. 

As Wellspring Alberta grows—especially with the expansion of in-person services across Alberta, this role will ensure cohesive, compelling messaging that resonates deeply with diverse communities and inspires ongoing support. 

This position will work closely with all members of the Leadership team and will be expected to take direction from the Chief Development Officer (CDO) on all matters related to fund development.   

This is a full-time position, based in Calgary or Edmonton.  Occasional travel to communities across Alberta is required. Occasional evening and weekend work may also be required. 

Key Responsibilities:  

Strategic Communications & Brand Management 

• Develop and implement an integrated strategic communications plan to advance Wellspring Alberta’s brand, raise public awareness, and support member and donor engagement. 

• Ensure brand consistency across all internal and external communications. 

• Monitor public perception and manage issues and opportunities affecting the organization’s reputation in partnership with the CEO. 

• Serve as a strategic advisor to internal teams and leadership on communication initiatives. 

Content Development & Media Relations 

• Lead the creation of compelling content including newsletters, annual reports, program materials, impact stories, press releases, and promotional collateral. 

• Oversee and manage the development and execution of social media and digital marketing strategies. 

• Actively cultivate relationships with media outlets and key influencers to secure positive media coverage and public engagement. 

• Prepare media materials, speaking notes, and presentations for public and media-facing events. 

Digital & Website Management 

• Oversee Wellspring Alberta’s website content, structure, and user experience to ensure relevance, accessibility, and engagement. 

• Ensure digital platforms are effectively integrated into broader communications and fundraising strategies. 

Storytelling & Community Engagement 

• Oversee and manage the identification, development and sharing of member stories and impact testimonials that reflect the organization’s mission and deepen connection with supporters. 

• Support community outreach and stakeholder communications, particularly in regions expanding in-person service delivery. 

Fundraising & Development Support 

• Partner closely with the development team to craft donor communications, campaign messaging, cases for support, and event promotion materials. 

• Support signature events and campaigns with clear, inspiring communications that drive engagement and philanthropy. 

Team & Vendor Management 

• Lead and mentor communications staff or contractors, as applicable. 

• Manage relationships with external vendors and consultants to optimize communications outcomes and budget. 

Qualifications:  

Education 

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field; advanced degree an asset 

Experience   

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in a senior communications role, preferably in the nonprofit or health-related sector 

• Experience with media relations, crisis communication, and digital content strategy 

Skills and Competencies 

• Proven success in developing and executing integrated communications strategies 

• Collaborative and inclusive leadership style 

• Strategic thinker with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines 

• Ability to move comfortably between strategy and detailed execution 

• Strong program management rigor with a passion for operational excellence 

• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills across a variety of media and audiences 

• Ability to craft and design compelling narratives and campaigns to share and strengthen the Wellspring brand 

• Proficiency in social media, web management, content tools (e.g., WordPress, Mailchimp, Canva, etc.), Google, and Microsoft suite of tools  

• Passion for Wellspring Alberta’s mission and values 

What We Offer:  

• A supportive and inclusive organizational culture driven by purpose and impact 

• A hybrid working model that promotes flexibility and work-life balance 

• Competitive compensation, benefits plan, and wellness days 

• Opportunities for personal and professional growth within a dynamic and mission-driven environment 

• A chance to be part of a team that is changing lives across Alberta 

To Apply:   

To apply for this position, please email your cover letter, resume, and salary expectations to peggyb@wellspringalberta.ca . 

This posting will close once we have found a successful candidate. We wish to thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted. 

Inclusion Statement:   

Wellspring Alberta is committed to being an inclusive organization. We are in the process of expanding the diversity of identities and lived experiences to better reflect the communities in which we work and live. 

To support this process, we’ve become an employer partner of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion, developed an Advisory group, and we are taking action as part of our commitment to Diversity and Inclusion. 

We encourage applications from groups that are typically under-represented in cancer-serving organizations, including BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour) individuals, LGBTQ2S+ identifying individuals, persons with disabilities, and candidates from all equity-seeking groups. We invite you to contact us to discuss accessibility and accommodations throughout the recruitment process. 

We also know that women and people of colour are less likely to apply for roles unless they meet every single requirement. If you’re excited about the role, but your qualifications don’t match perfectly, we encourage you to apply.