Executive Director, External Engagement

Job summary

Lead the institution's external engagement strategy, focusing on government relations, public affairs, and philanthropy. The role involves strengthening partnerships with donors, alumni, Indigenous communities, and industry leaders to support strategic priorities.

Job details

Bookmark this Posting Print Preview | Please see Special Instructions for more details. Interested applicants are invited to contact DHR Global directly with any questions or to learn more about this exciting opportunity. To be considered for the position, please submit your resume and cover letter directly to DHR Global at npariseau@dhrglobal.com. Posting Details Position Information Job Title Executive Director, External Engagement Appointment Type Position Dates Hours per week/FTE 35 About the Position Lethbridge Polytechnic is one of Alberta’s leading post-secondary institutions, recognized for its career-focused education, applied research, and strong industry partnerships. As Canada’s first publicly funded community college and the only polytechnic south of Calgary, the institution plays a vital role in advancing workforce development, innovation, and economic growth throughout southern Alberta. Lethbridge Polytechnic is seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to serve as its next Executive Director, External Engagement. Reporting directly to the President, this senior role will lead the institution’s external engagement strategy and play a key role in advancing its reputation, partnerships, influence, and long-term sustainability. Position Details The Executive Director will provide leadership across government relations, public affairs, development and philanthropy, alumni relations, and community engagement. The successful candidate will work closely with government representatives, donors, alumni, Indigenous communities, industry partners, and community leaders to strengthen relationships and support the Polytechnic’s strategic priorities. A key focus of the role will be leading fundraising and philanthropic initiatives, including major gift development and capital campaigns, while fostering a culture of engagement and giving across the institution. The Executive Director will also oversee government relations and public relations strategies that elevate the Polytechnic’s profile and support meaningful advocacy and stakeholder engagement efforts. Required Qualifications The ideal candidate will bring at least 10 years of progressive senior leadership experience in external relations, government relations, public affairs, philanthropy, institutional advancement, or a related field. They will possess exceptional relationship-building, communication, and strategic leadership skills, along with a demonstrated ability to develop partnerships, engage stakeholders, and drive organizational impact. A relevant graduate degree is preferred. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of a growing polytechnic while making a lasting impact on students, communities, and the broader region Preferred Qualifications Salary Compensation will include a base salary commensurate with experience and within the salary grid applicable to the position. Working Here Posting Detail Information Posting Number P26-00695 Open Date 08/21/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants Interested applicants are invited to contact DHR Global directly with any questions or to learn more about this exciting opportunity. To be considered for the position, please submit your resume and cover letter directly to DHR Global at npariseau@dhrglobal.com. Supplemental Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*). Documents Needed To Apply Required Documents Optional Documents

What you’ll do

Lead the institution's external engagement strategy, focusing on government relations, public affairs, and philanthropy. The role involves strengthening partnerships with donors, alumni, Indigenous communities, and industry leaders to support strategic priorities.

Requirements

Requires at least 10 years of progressive senior leadership experience in external relations, philanthropy, or a related field. A relevant graduate degree is preferred along with exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.

Listed skills

• Communication · Preferred
• Relationship Building · Preferred
• Fundraising · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Government Relations
• Public Affairs
• Philanthropy
• Alumni Relations
• Community Engagement
• Fundraising
• Major Gift Development
• Capital Campaigns
• Strategic Leadership
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Public Relations
• Relationship Building
• Communication
• Institutional Advancement

Job areas

• Management & Leadership
• Education
• Government & Public Sector
• Marketing
• Sales