POSITION PURPOSE :
Reporting to the Manager, Communications and Special Projects, is responsible for providing strategic communications advice to clients; supporting the development of strategic communications plans; creating executive-level speaking notes and presentations; developing communications approach and content for digital media including social media, intranet and corporate website; developing and executing event plans to support clients and department; supporting the department’s media relations, issues management and stakeholder relations efforts; providing support for corporate-wide initiatives, programs, special projects and communications for the assigned client groups.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provides communications counsel to client groups to determine strategic approaches to internal and external communications, media relations, employee engagement and issues management.
- Supports the Manager in the development and delivery of departmental communication strategies, programs and services, which includes providing executive communications support to the Commissioner, as needed.
- Provides key inputs in the creation and implementation of communications plans and strategies to support corporate events / initiatives, creates media releases and online communication content.
- Conducts research on best practices to support effective communications, as required.
- Drafts and edits copy for communication materials following plain language principles.
- Reviews copy to ensure consistency of departmental messaging.
- Participates on committees, work groups, task forces and special projects, as assigned.
- Performs other duties as assigned, in accordance with Branch, department and corporate goals.
QUALIFICATIONS
Successful completion of a University Degree in Public Relations, Communications or Journalism or related field or approved equivalent combination of education and experience.Strong knowledge of communication practices and theory, including strategic communications, issues management, internal communications best practices, traditional and social media.Highly developed skills in writing, editing and presenting, using plain language best practices.Demonstrated experience fostering cooperative and collaborative working relationships, leading multiple projects, overcoming change and adversity.Experience dealing with confidential materials and exercising good judgement and discretion in dealing with politically sensitive and confidential matters.Proven political acuity and skills to respond to and deescalate issues.Demonstrated knowledge, experience and ability in event planning, media relations, communications training, social media, art direction and photography.Understanding of York Region, the nine local municipalities, municipal government and the programs and services provided to the public.Demonstrated knowledge of relevant Legislation, Standards, Acts and Regulations.Knowledge and demonstrated ability in corporate core competencies including communication, innovation, teamwork and collaboration, and personal ownership.