Sr. Manager, External Communications - Brands

Location:

243 Consumers Road, Toronto, Ontario, M2J 4W8

At Shoppers Drug Mart, we’re innovating health and wellness in Canada. From prescriptions to walk-in clinics, and a beloved loyalty program, we’re caring and supporting our customers in new ways every day.
With more than 1,300 locally owned and operated stores from coast to coast, the Shoppers Drug Mart network is more than a great place to shop, it’s a great place to work.

We’re committed to building our talented team who champion collaboration, kindness and inclusivity. Join our team, and help recognize a healthy future for your career and for all Canadians.

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Senior Manager of Communications to join the Shoppers Drug Mart Communications team. This is a critical role responsible for leading the internal and external communications strategy across the core pillars of Front Store, Beauty, and Owned Brands.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned communications professional who can navigate the fast-paced world of retail. You will be a trusted advisor to the business, protecting and promoting our reputation by telling compelling stories that resonate with media, consumers, external stakeholders, and our own internal teams.

As an experienced people leader, you will be responsible for the leadership and development of a Communications Specialist.

• Develop & Execute Integrated Strategies: Design and implement comprehensive internal and external communication plans that support business objectives.

• Elevate our Retail & Beauty Brands
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  Collaborate closely with our marketing partners on campaigns that highlight our iconic retail promotions, owned brands (e.g., Quo Beauty, Life Brand), and exclusive brand partnerships to drive engagement and sales.

• Lead Media & Public Relations: Act as a primary contact for media and cultivate strong relationships with journalists, influencers, and industry partners. Proactively secure positive coverage and manage reactive issues with sound judgment and speed.

• Drive Internal Communications: Ensure our store teams and corporate colleagues are informed, engaged, and aligned with our strategic priorities through clear and impactful internal messaging.

• Stakeholder & Agency Management: Collaborate seamlessly with internal leaders across Marketing, Operations, Pharmacy, and Legal. Manage external agency partners to ensure flawless execution and measurable results.

• Financial Stewardship: Oversee and manage all budget elements associated with your communication campaigns and initiatives.

• A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in corporate communications, public relations, or a related field.

• Proven track record of developing and executing successful communication strategies in a fast-paced, complex organization. Experience in retail, consumer brands, and/or healthcare/pharmaceutical sectors is highly advantageous.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to craft compelling narratives for diverse audiences and advise senior leadership.

• Strong media relations and issues management experience, with a portfolio of successful campaigns and placements.

• A strategic mindset with the ability to manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously without sacrificing quality.

• A strong track record for leadership of direct reports.

• Experience managing agency partners and program budgets effectively.

• A collaborative spirit and the ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels.

Acting as consultants, supporting internal customers and the Associate-Owners, you will get experience unique to the retail industry while working for an award-winning national brand. Benefit from a purchase discount program, competitive pay and online learning through Academy.

Take ownership of your work and find more ways to care about your work, co-workers, customers and community.

At Shoppers Drug Mart Inc., we seek great people to continually strengthen our culture. We believe great people model our values, are authentic, build trust and make connections.

We have…