Manager, Media Relations

Overview

The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) is seeking a dedicated and experienced professional to expand our national media presence and execute proactive, strategic media strategies.

The ideal candidate brings experience in media relations or journalism, exceptional writing and communication skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to contribute to a team in a fast-paced, political environment.

Above all, we are looking for someone who cares deeply about our issues and is passionate about making Canada a better place for the Jewish community and all Canadians.

If these qualities describe you and this is an opportunity you’re seeking, please send the following items to [email protected], using the subject line Media Relations Manager, [Your Name]:

• Resume
• Cover letter explaining in one page why you’re a fit for the role
• Three samples of your written communication (articles, press releases, op-eds, etc.)

Key Responsibilities  

• Manages national media relations by executing a proactive engagement strategy and prioritizing media requests that align with CIJA’s objectives.  
• Under the guidance of the Senior Director of Strategic Communications, develops concise and compelling media products—including talking points, statements, press releases, and media advisories—rooted in CIJA’s core messaging. 
• Plans and oversees all national media engagements (e.g., press conferences, availabilities, interviews), ensuring they are well-coordinated, timely, recorded, and stay on message. 
• Cultivates and maintains relationships with national journalists, editors, and producers. 
• Generates proactive publicity opportunities for the CEO and key leaders.
• Contributes to the writing of op-eds and supports op-ed development for the CIJA national team and regional leads lacking dedicated media support; also manages media pitches to newspapers and outlets. 
• Delivers media training and coaching for CIJA leadership team and partners.
• Oversees CIJA’s media monitoring services to identify emerging issues, briefing the VP of Communications and other CIJA team members on timely opportunities for engagement. 

Qualifications

• Outstanding writing and presentation skills with the ability to quickly turn around high-quality products, including demonstrating a high level of attention-to-detail and audience sensitivity.  
• 3-5 five years experience in journalism or media relations.    
• An undergraduate degree in journalism, communications, politics or public policy.
• Deep understanding of how to operate in a fast-paced workplace and in highly politicized external environment.   
• Patient and emotionally intelligent team-player with excellent interpersonal skills who places a focus on fostering collaboration.  
• Experience in producing short video scripts and content is considered an asset.
• Experience with CRMs (NationBuilder, Salesforce, etc.) and media monitoring tools is considered an asset.
• Bilingualism is considered an asset.   

Working Conditions  

• Working hours may include some nights and weekends.    
• Hybrid office, position will be based in Ottawa or Toronto.   
• Domestic and potential international travel. 

Salary commensurate with experience. $70,000-$90,000