McMaster University – Executive Director, Communications and Donor Relations
McMaster is a university that makes an impact locally, nationally and globally through its commitment to translating research and learning into action that improves health, strengthens society and prepares the next generation of leaders and citizens. With its cutting-edge research and world-class teaching and learning, McMaster is ranked among the Top 150 universities in the world. McMaster invented problem-based learning, an innovation that transformed higher education globally, and is home to evidence-based medicine, one of the great advances of modern medicine.
With over 37,000 students, more than 8,000 continuing faculty and staff, and a vibrant research enterprise, McMaster is consistently ranked among Canada’s top research universities and is recognized as a Hamilton‑Niagara Top Employer and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers.
As McMaster University prepares for its next phase of philanthropic growth and engages in ambitious campaign planning, it seeks a strategic and collaborative leader as its next Executive Director, Communications and Donor Relations. The Executive Director is a key member of University Advancement, an award-winning division that serves as a critical bridge between McMaster and the philanthropic community, helping to position the University to create opportunities to accelerate discovery, enhance student experiences, support breakthrough research, and strengthen its impact on society.
Reporting to the Vice-President, University Advancement, the Executive Director, Communications and Donor Relations plays a pivotal role in leading and implementing integrated strategies for all cross-University donor communications and relations, and Advancement-related communications and marketing programs. They shape and amplify a compelling institutional narrative for both philanthropic fundraising and alumni engagement, connecting donors and alumni to McMaster’s mission. The role oversees integrated advancement communications campaign strategies. The Executive Director works collaboratively across Advancement and the broader institution, and builds and leads a high-performing team to deliver measurable impact.
The ideal candidate is an accomplished and strategic communications leader with experience operating in complex, stakeholder-driven environments. They bring a strong track record leading large-scale integrated campaigns, brand development, fundraising communications, and multi-channel marketing initiatives across print, broadcast, and digital platforms. The successful candidate will excel at developing and executing comprehensive communications strategies, collaborating with senior executives and diverse stakeholders, and translating complex messaging into compelling narratives for varied audiences. Exceptional interpersonal, presentation, and organizational skills are essential, along with experience in strategic planning, change leadership, and leading high-performing teams in complex, fast-paced environments.
McMaster has partnered with the leadership advisory firm Odgers for this search. Applications are encouraged immediately and ideally by July 23, 2026, at https://careers.odgers.com/en-ca/job/ 31899 . For more information or accommodations at any step of the process, please contact Julia Robarts and Krutika Hotwani at [email protected]. This posting is for an existing position. The expected compensation range is between $143,077-$187,609.
The University seeks qualified candidates who share their commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially welcomes applications from Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.
