HD

Hugh Donnan

Available to hire

I am an experienced communications professional and orchestra executive with a passion for music and community engagement.

About

I am an experienced communications professional and orchestra executive with a passion for music and community engagement. Over the years, I have developed expertise in strategic communications, social media, and community outreach, while also leading orchestral operations and programming. I thrive in roles that require leadership, creativity, and collaboration to foster audience growth and support the arts.

My career has spanned various government and private sector communications leadership positions, where I have managed complex communications strategies and implemented successful marketing campaigns. I am deeply involved in community and nonprofit boards and committees, particularly in music and religious organizations, underscoring my commitment to service and cultural development.

  • 18 years' experience
  • Joined August 2025

Industry experience

  • Government
  • Media & Entertainment
  • Professional Services
  • Non-Profit Organization

Work experience· 7 roles

Chief Consultant · Hugh Donnan ConsultingJan 2019 – Present · 7 yrs 11 mos

Develop communications strategies including crisis communications and key message planning, execute social media strategies, plan and execute community engagement initiatives, and manage press release development and media strategies with management and evaluation.

Director of Strategic Communications (Operations) · Communications Branch, Executive Council, Government of Newfoundland & LabradorSep 2016 – Aug 2025 · 9 yrs

Led communications operations across 15 government departments and agencies, coordinated news releases and social media, monitored media, guided departmental communication directors strategically, reviewed communication and consultation plans, and supported key government strategy development.

Chief Executive Officer · Newfoundland Symphony OrchestraSep 2016 – Present · 10 yrs 3 mos

Oversee orchestra operations, collaborate with music staff to program concerts and events, secure and grow sponsor and grant funding, drive subscriber growth, and foster community outreach programs for youth.

Director of Communications · Department of Health and Community Services, Government of Newfoundland & LabradorFeb 2015 – Aug 2025 · 10 yrs 7 mos
Director of Communications · Departments of Service NL, Municipal Affairs, Government of Newfoundland & LabradorOct 2014 – Aug 2025 · 10 yrs 11 mos
Manager, Enterprise Vertical Market · StratosMar 2011 – Aug 2025 · 14 yrs 6 mos
Marketing Communications Manager, Americas · StratosFeb 2008 – Aug 2025 · 17 yrs 7 mos

Education

Leadership Certificate Program · Memorial University of Newfoundland2008
Bachelor of Commerce (co-operative) Degree Program · Memorial University of Newfoundland Faculty of Business Administration1994 – 1999
Bachelor of Arts; Major in History, Minor in Business · Memorial University of Newfoundland Faculty of Arts1994 – 1999

Certifications and awards

Leadership Certificate Program2008

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