Engagement & Communication Specialist

PACE Independent Living is hiring an ENGAGEMENT AND COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST Dufferin/Lawrence | $82,047 to $97,968 PACE is a non-profit community support service organization that provides support services to adults with disabilities who are committed to living independent lives. PACE provides support services to more than 350 individuals who have a variety of disabilities. We operate 8 supportive housing sites where people live independently along with a Community Outreach Program that provides support services in people’s homes. PACE has been accredited with Accreditation Canada, since 2010. PACE achieved the highest rating of Accredited with Exemplary Standing in our last survey in May 2022. We encourage you to review our website to learn more about us at  Position Overview The Engagement and Communications Specialist champions the meaningful engagement of team members, clients and their caregivers to inform service, program and corporate decision-making. Through the development of empowering engagement objectives, commitments, tactics and techniques, this role contributes to the development of a strong culture of partnership that fosters connection and trust across the organization. This role leads executional support for corporate communications deliverables, including compelling electronic content, presentations and print material. What you will do:  Engagement (60%) Leads the organization’s engagement framework, including policies, tools, resources, and criteria for prioritizing requests. Assesses each engagement opportunity with clients and/or support networks, determines eligibility for compensation, confirms participation preferences, and processes compensation as appropriate. For each strategic initiative or SLT-identified operational priority: Partners with the Project Sponsor to analyze key stakeholders. Defines engagement objectives and determines the appropriate type and level of at each stage of execution. Develops an engagement plan outlining responsibility. Creates and executes an annual engagement plan and designs and facilitates meaningful engagement that effectively involves stakeholders in the successful implementation of strategic plan priorities and operational changes. Collaborates with Executive Sponsors to plan, coordinate, and deliver engagement activities tied to strategic objectives. Prepares engagement summary reports and maintains a centralized repository for organizational learning. Creates and manages the engagement tracking database including activity, participants, compensation (if applicable), outcomes, and lessons learned. Builds organizational capacity by training and supporting team members in engagement best practices. Communications (30%) Leads executional support for Corporate Communications including: Developing compelling written/visual content for the website, social media, marketing materials, corporate reports and presentations Preparing internal communications, press releases and speaking notes. Managing the organization’s digital presence, ensuring content is current, accurate, and aligned with the strategic communication plan. Managing consistency with branding, style and messaging guidelines. Works with internal clients to define communication support needs and to negotiate priority of requests. Building relationships and infrastructure for cascade communications. Event Management (10%) Works with the Executive Sponsor and Project Manager for select events to design a plan and proposal for feedback from and approval by Senior Leadership Team. Provides leadership and oversight of the internal team established to manage planning, coordination, and execution of all logistical elements for key events. What you will bring: EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS & COMPETENCIES: Master’s degree in health administration/business management or diploma in communications, public relations, community engagement, or a related field; a combination of education and relevant experience may be considered. Five (5) years’ experience, preferably in the healthcare, not-for-profit, community/social service, or similar organizations in facilitating engagement activities with diverse stakeholders, community relations, stakeholder relations, or a related field. Experience supporting communications functions, including content development, branding, digital channels, digital tools and platforms and coordinating events, including vendor management, logistics, and evaluation. Strong facilitations skills to manage group dynamics, and encourage participation; written and verbal communication skills, with ability to adapt messaging to different audiences. Strong organizational and project management skills, with ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. Flexibility and adaptability to manage shifting priorities and evolving organizational needs. Strong computer skills in MS Word, MS Access, Excel and PowerPoint, MS Project. PROFESSIONAL LICENSE/AFFILIATIONS/MEMBERSHIPS/CERTIFICATES: Certificate in Public Participation (IAP2 Canada), Certified Health Executive (CHE) designation or equivalent certification in stakeholder engagement and/or group facilitation is an asset. Other Information The position is full time, 40-hour week, Monday to Friday; nonstandard hours may be required including periodic nights and weekends. The work location is primarily situated at Head Office (Dufferin/Lawrence) & periodic travel between program locations will be required on an occasional basis. PACE offers a competitive salary ($82,047 – $97,968) and a comprehensive benefit package and a work environment that is focused on employee engagement and leadership development.