Item - 2012.GM14.4

At its meeting on March 28, 2012, Government Management Committee requested the City Manager to report to the May 24, 2012 meeting on the viability and need to hire a Chief Digital Officer to co-ordinate how the City of Toronto engages with its residents by utilizing its digital capacity; and further, to address a suitable salary range and the feasibility of the position being filled within the current complement.

This report provides information about Strategic Communications' intent to create a position with responsibility for digital communications.

As technology and the communications landscape continue to evolve, greater emphasis is being placed on digital, mobile and social platforms and interactions. The City must ensure it is leveraging these opportunities strategically and effectively to communicate and engage with residents, businesses and visitors about City programs, services, events and initiatives. 

The creation of a digital communications position within the Strategic Communications Division will ensure the City’s digital activities are coordinated and aligned with other strategic communications planning initiatives, and that social media tools are used appropriately and effectively. This position will focus on managing, overseeing and developing digital communications and social media strategies, and providing communications leadership for the City’s website and online presence. The Human Resources Division will establish the wage grade for the position following a review of the job profile. No additional costs will be associated with creating this position as funding will be found within the division’s existing budget.