Press Secretary

**Press Secretary - Self-Government**

**Location**: Métis Nation of Alberta Head Office, Edmonton, AB

**Position Status**: Permanent, Full Time (40 hours/week)

**The Organization**

Since its inception in 1928, the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) has governed the Métis within Alberta. The MNA is led by a democratically elected Council. This Council works toward the mandate of the MNA, supporting practices of transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness for Métis Albertans in government policy and decision-making processes. The MNA promotes and facilitates the advancement of Métis people through self-reliance, self-determination, and self-management.

**Opportunity**

**Key Responsibilities**
- Plan, implement, and direct a press strategy for the MNA.
- Draft and edit press releases, talking points, social media content, statements, speeches, letters, and Q&A documents.
- Plan and coordinate MNA press events, organize press conferences/briefings and other events, and coordinate logistics.
- Respond to media inquiries and drive media-facing rapid response efforts when needed. Respond to internal and external inquiries in an accurate and timely manner.
- Identify opportunities for media outreach and identify news media outlets and reports to cover MNA news releases/stories, etc.
- Ensure deliverables are completed on time with a high standard of quality.
- Research issues, develop recommendations, and present to the MNA’s Executive and Self-Government teams.
- Contribute to Self-Government strategic planning and execution and participate in team meetings.
- Develop and maintain constructive working relationships with different members of the media, the Métis community, MNA Executive, MNA Provincial Council members, MNA department staff, government (federal, provincial, municipal) representatives, and external stakeholders.
- Present a positive and professional image of the organization when interacting with all internal and external stakeholders.
- Maintain a high level of political awareness, cultural sensitivity, professionalism, and confidentiality in interactions with internal and external stakeholders.
- Other duties as assigned.

**Skills and Competencies**
- Must be firmly committed to the MNA’s values, including Self-Government objectives.
- Strong political and cultural awareness, particularly in Indigenous politics in Canada, combined with highly developed skills in tact and diplomacy.
- Knowledge of Métis history, culture, and issues affecting Métis people.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills, experience working with multiple stakeholders, and the ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with staff, the media, legislative offices, and the public.
- Demonstrated ability to adhere to strict confidentiality of sensitive information. High level of integrity, ethics, and professionalism.
- Ability to exhibit professional demeanor in fast paced and high-pressure work environments.
- Comprehensive understanding of communications tools, including online and traditional media.
- Exceptional attention to detail.
- Outstanding communication skills and exceptional writing skills with strong copy editing and proofreading skills.
- Exceptional creative abilities, innovative, proactive, and forward thinking.
- Strong political awareness and sensitivity.

**Qualifications**
- Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism or Public Relations.
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in a Public Affairs role.
- Minimum 5 years’ experience working in a government or political environment.
- Previous experience working within an Indigenous organization is an asset.
- Experience writing press releases, speeches, and other material.
- The_Métis Nation of Alberta thanks all applicants for their interest. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please._

**Job Types**: Full-time, Permanent

**Benefits**:

- Company events
- Company pension
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Vision care

Schedule:

- 10 hour shift
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekend availability

Work Location: In person