A highly energetic performer, who thrives in a dynamic, and consistently changing environment, the Communications Officer will play a key role on the management team and help support communication initiatives within all departments. This includes the provision of strategic issues, management support, communications planning, media training and various other responsibilities.
Reporting to the Communications Manager, the incumbent will:
- Oversee the day-to-day activities of the Communication Specialists, distributing and reviewing the work of the team while coaching, advising and mentoring the staff to produce the best outcomes for the Region.
- Be actively involved in the development and implementation of departmental and broader Durham Region communications strategies.
- Lead the development of a communications strategy for their specific portfolio, ensuring tactical completion, measurement and management of the plan.
- Write/edit internal/external communications pieces of all levels ensuring adherence to brand standards and CP Style Guide.
- Create communications materials and tools from concept to distribution.
- Provide strategic and tactical communications support and leadership as per the direction of the Manager, Communications.
- Participate in communications business process reviews to assist with identifying opportunities for continuous improvement
- Provide advice and analysis to support responses to departmental issues and inquiries from Council, corporate leadership and the public.
- Contribute to annual project/editorial calendar.
- Identify and proactively lead and encourage opportunities for positive media coverage for the department and corporation.
The successful candidate will:
- Hold a Degree/diploma in Journalism, Public Relations, Corporate Communications or
equivalent combination of education and related work experience- Preferably possess accreditation or membership with the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) or the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS)
- Have experience supervising, coaching, and mentoring staff, preferably in a unionized environment
- Have several years in a media relations/public relations/communications role
- Possess strong Social media expertise
- Have superior communications skills with demonstrated experience in media and public relations
- Extensive knowledge of the Canadian Press Style Guide
- Experience with various computer programs, including graphic arts, desktop publishing
- Understanding of purchasing and budget processes
- Possess strong problem-solving skills
- Capacity to foster mutual understanding in intercultural and interdepartmental interactions
