Communications Specialist

Role Overview

• Develop and implement measurable strategic communications plans by translating business objectives into integrated communications approaches that support corporate priorities and protect the City’s reputation.
• Exercise independent judgment and initiative in leading communications strategy for assigned portfolios, proactively recommending and advancing communications approaches aligned with corporate priorities.
• Act as the communications owner for assigned portfolios by maintaining up-to-date knowledge of key initiatives and proactively reporting to senior leadership on communications plans, emerging risks and progress toward objectives.
• Provide strategic communications advice to internal partners and project teams, applying sound judgment and political acumen to ensure messaging is clear, timely, accurate, and aligned with corporate standards, Council direction, and organizational priorities.
• Build and manage effective working relationships with internal partners and stakeholders, providing trusted advice to support aligned, strategic communications approaches and positive outcomes for the City and community.
• Support the Senior Communications Advisor on assigned files by contributing to strategy development, issues management and communications planning to achieve the best outcomes for the City and community.
• Identify and assess emerging issues within assigned portfolios and develop communications strategies to mitigate reputational risk.
• Collaborate with the Issues and Media Relations team and provide file-specific response support, as required.
• Support media relations for assigned portfolios by developing key messages and briefing materials, preparing spokespeople and collaborating with the Issues and Media Relations team to ensure coordinated responses that protect the City’s reputation.
• Evaluate and report on the effectiveness of communications strategies and initiatives, using data and feedback to measure outcomes and inform continuous improvement.
• Research, write and edit clear, accurate and accessible communications materials, including news releases, key messages, Qs and As, statements, speeches, presentations and digital content, applying plain language and accessibility standards.
• Coordinate communications planning and execution for complex projects and events involving multiple internal and external stakeholders.
• Work collaboratively with marketing, social media, creative services, and engagement teams to ensure integrated communications planning and coordinated delivery across channels and platforms.
• Support the development and implementation of communications policies, procedures and standards to promote consistent and coordinated communications practices across the organization.
• Participate in a rotational on-call schedule to provide after-hours communications support, including evenings and weekends, as required.

Requirements

• Considerable experience (preference for three to five years) of progressively responsible experience in corporate communications or public relations.
• A degree or diploma in Public Relations or Journalism, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated experience developing and implementing strategic communications plans, including issues management and media relations support.
• Strong writing and editing skills with a high level of accuracy, including demonstrated ability to write and edit in CP style.
• Ability to translate complex or technical information into clear, plain and accessible language for diverse audiences.
• Experience providing strategic communications advice within a complex or politically sensitive environment, including the ability to exercise sound judgment and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced setting.
• Knowledge of digital communications principles and experience working across digital channels, content management systems or analytics tools to support integrated communications approaches.
• Demonstrated understanding of accessibility standards, inclusive communications practices and a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion principles.
• Strong verbal communication and presentation skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships with internal partners and stakeholders.
• Experience working in a public sector or municipal environment is an asset.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Flexible work arrangements
• Professional development