Public Affairs Officer

About the Company

Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 92,000+ employees who bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s largest bank and one of the largest in the world based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to 17 million clients.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Public Affairs Officer to join our dynamic team in Hamilton. In this role, you will be responsible for managing and enhancing RBC’s reputation, building strong relationships with key stakeholders, and effectively communicating our initiatives and values to the public. You will play a crucial role in developing and implementing public affairs strategies that align with our corporate objectives and contribute to our community engagement efforts. This position requires excellent communication, strategic thinking, and a proactive approach to stakeholder management.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute public affairs strategies that support RBC's business objectives and reputation.
• Act as a primary contact for local media inquiries, drafting press releases, and coordinating media interviews.
• Monitor public opinion and sentiment, providing regular reports and recommendations to senior management.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials, community leaders, non-profit organizations, and other key stakeholders.
• Represent RBC at community events, industry conferences, and public forums.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including marketing, communications, and corporate social responsibility, to ensure consistent messaging.
• Manage crisis communications and develop appropriate response strategies when required.
• Prepare presentations, reports, and briefing materials for executives on public affairs matters.
• Identify opportunities for RBC to participate in and lead public discourse on relevant topics.

Required Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Political Science, Journalism, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in public affairs, corporate communications, or government relations.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement successful public affairs strategies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and media relations.
• Strong understanding of local and national political landscapes and public policy issues.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in digital communication tools and social media for public affairs.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a related field.
• Experience working in the financial services industry or a large corporate environment.
• Bilingualism (English and French) is considered an asset.
• Experience with crisis management and reputation protection.

Perks & Benefits

• Comprehensive health and dental benefits package.
• Competitive pension plan.
• Generous paid time off and vacation policy.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Employee discounts on banking services and products.
• Dynamic and inclusive work environment.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and resources.

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