Senior Communications Strategist

Position Summary

Are you an experienced communications professional? We're seeking a Senior Communications Strategist to join the Strategic Communications Department for a two (2) year term to develop and execute strategic communications and marketing plans aligned with our city's objectives.

Reporting to the Senior Communications Advisor, you will be focusing your efforts on collaborating closely with departments and deploying targeted tactics to achieve business goals. From traditional to digital media, you'll craft various materials such as news releases and social media content. With strong analytical skills, you'll conduct research and problem-solving to meet tight deadlines. Ready to join our team? Apply now!

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver effective communications and marketing strategies for communications projects using best professional practices.
• Proactively work with colleagues in communications and across the organization to align and deploy communication strategies, messages, and activities.
• Participate as a communications expert on interdepartmental project teams to provide strategic advice.
• Prepare, or collaborate on the production of communications tactics such as news releases, briefing notes, digital content, ads and other communications materials as appropriate.
• Manage portfolio workplans, budgets and identify resource requirements to ensure the effective delivery of high-quality corporate communications.
• Research, identify and advise on emerging communications issues and challenges and work with teams and clients to address them.
• Participate in change management communications planning.
• Perform other work as required.

Key Qualifications

• The knowledge, skills and abilities required are obtained through completion of a University Degree in Communications, Business Administration, Journalism, English (or similar program) or a two (2) year diploma in Public Relations, in addition to directly related work experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years' experience in a communications environment or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to express ideas effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills. Strong analytical skills.
• Proven ability to effectively work independently in a demanding day-to-day environment.
• Ability to take a leadership role and manage issues.
• Project management knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Ability to work with employees at all levels of the organization and elected officials.
• Political acumen is considered an asset.
• Demonstrated results in effective use of best-practice strategic communications planning and the ability to effectively implement and evaluate communications strategies.
• Demonstrated skill in adapting diverse communication techniques to various situations and circumstances.
• Experience in working in teams to plan, execute and report on engagement activities.
• Continuing record of professional development.
• Municipal government experience is an asset but not required.