Communications Specialist, University Relations

About the role

The communications specialist provides leadership in the development and implementation of innovative, effective, and reliable communication strategies to advance the reputation, priorities, and goals of the college, school or unit, in alignment with the strategic plan. The role will be based centrally within University Communications to work collaboratively with colleges and schools across the university to understand their priorities, challenges, stakeholders, and communications needs.

The communications specialist works collaboratively with the college, unit, or school to develop and implement communications strategies, initiatives and goals. The incumbent works directly with and takes direction from the college, school or unit they support, understanding their values, priorities, challenges, stakeholders and needs. This position also works collaboratively with internal colleagues, which includes communications, development, alumni relations and external engagement, to achieve communications goals and outcomes institutionally and within the college, school or unit.

Responsibilities

• Develops, implements and delivers effective and reliable communication and marketing strategies and plans, both annual and long-term, that enhance the reputation and visual identity of the college, school or unit.
• Provides strategic advice, guidance and innovative solutions for priority projects that support the reputation, promotion, branding, priorities and initiatives of the college, school or unit.
• Works with college, school or unit to identify areas of specific focus in which to provide communications support and development.
• Encourages appropriate engagement of internal stakeholders during the planning and implementation of communications strategies.
• Develops, builds and maintains key relationships with internal stakeholders from various colleges and units across campus.
• Maintains awareness of college, school or unit’s initiatives and activities.
• Crafts compelling content that reflects the work of the college, school or unit, as well as communications to alumni, external partners, faculty, staff, and students.
• Utilizes various platforms and channels, including but not limited to social media, written copy, website content, photography, video and more.
• Follows guidelines and promotes consistent messaging and branding across all channels.
• Participates in team meetings, planning, and other activities that contribute to achieving university-wide goals in communications.
• Designs communications that are accessible and suitable for diverse audiences and diverse mediums.
• Communicates and acts in a respectful and professional manner, collaborates effectively, abides by policy, and contributes to a positive and productive work and learning environment.
• Engages in continuous learning by participating in activities, training, and events related to Indigenous engagement, reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Demonstrates respect and dignity for all members of the community, actively contributes to an environment of acceptance and inclusion of others, and responds to different perspectives from a place of curiosity, respect, and non-judgement.
• Undertakes related duties, as assigned, consistent with the nature of the position.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing or a related field; a graduate degree is an asset.
• Minimum five years’ experience in communications or marketing with progression in level of responsibility, including a breadth of experience developing and implementing all areas of strategic communications plans, preferably in a post-secondary or similar setting.
• Experience and knowledge of university communications support, processes, and technology is an asset.
• Advanced knowledge of communication principles.
• Exceptional writing, editing, interviewing and storytelling skills, with demonstrated ability to create engaging stories and content for diverse audiences across multiple platforms.
• Demonstrated client service orientation.
• Strong problem solving, strategic, and creative thinking skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and meet deadlines on multiple projects with competing demands.
• Sound judgment and discretionary decision-making skills.
• Knowledge, understanding and/or openness to learn about issues (including cultural, socio-economic and other factors) affecting Indigenous peoples.
• Ability to identify opportunities and analyze data to inform decisions.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively within a diverse environment and build relationships with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to use and leverage technology effectively.