Communications Specialist, University Relations

Communications Specialist, University Relations Summary: The communications specialist provides leadership in the development and implementation of innovative, effective and reliable communication strategies to advance the reputation, priorities and goals of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) in alignment with the college’s strategic plan. The role is part of a larger team of embedded college communicators across the university and reports to the Manager, College Communications and Marketing. The communications specialist develops and implements communications strategies, initiatives and goals. The incumbent works directly with and takes direction from WCVM leadership, understanding their values, priorities, challenges, stakeholders and needs. This position also works collaboratively with internal colleagues, which includes communications, development, alumni relations, external engagement and hospital administration, to achieve communication goals and outcomes institutionally and within the college. This position also serves as a communications resource for undergraduate and graduate students as well as for WCVM faculty and staff. Nature of Work The communications specialist is part of the WCVM communications team and is responsible for all aspects of the college’s communications program including external and internal college communications; communications strategy development and planning; media relations; event planning, volunteer management and community outreach; social media management and marketing; communications training, mentorship and support; and website development and maintenance. The work requires creativity, issues management, strong initiative and follow-through. The individual in this position must exercise considerable judgment, discretionary decision-making in a complex environment; and an ability to build professional relationships with senior administrators, employees, students and external stakeholders. The work requires meticulous attention to detail, work quality and multiple priorities. The communications specialist must understand the veterinary college’s unique regional nature and the important role of communications in building relationships with a range of stakeholders on campus and across Canada. Consequence of error is significant to the reputation and profile of the college and the university. Storytelling is fundamental to this role. The position requires strong writing and editing skills for various formats including news writing and science communications; print and digital communications for internal and external audiences; report writing; speaking notes; and policy/issues briefs. The communications specialist is responsible for creating promotional materials and identifying innovative veterinary and One Health research, education, outreach and human interest stories that enhance the profile of the WCVM and the university. This position also provides support for some event planning and development-related communications as well as community outreach programs. In addition, the individual works on various institutional and college-based projects as part of a dynamic team. The work environment is face-paced and rapidly changing. The employee is based at the WCVM and is responsible for managing multiple competing deadlines and priorities. The job requires some evening and weekend work as well as travel in and out of province multiple times a year to engage with stakeholders across the western Canadian provinces as part of the college’s outreach and engagement activities. Duties and Responsibilities: Develops, implements and delivers effective and reliable communication strategies and plans, both annual and long-term, that enhance the reputation and visual identity of the college Provides strategic advice, guidance and innovative solutions which support the reputation, promotion, branding, priorities and initiatives of the college Works with college to identify areas of specific focus in which to provide communications support and development. Encourages appropriate engagement of internal stakeholders during the planning and implementation of communication strategies Develops, builds and maintains key relationships with internal stakeholders from various colleges and units across campus Maintains awareness of the college’s initiatives and activities Crafts compelling content that reflects the work of the college, as well as communications to alumni, clients, external partners, faculty, staff and students Utilizes various platforms and channels, including but not limited to social media, written copy, website content, photography, video and more Follows guidelines and ensures consistent messaging and branding across all channels Adheres to budgetary requirements of communication initiatives and supports the effective use of resources, in collaboration with the college Participates in team meetings, planning and other activities that contribute to achieving university-wide goals in communications Designs communications that are accessible and suitable for diverse audiences and diverse mediums Communicates and acts in a respectful and professional manner, collaborates effectively, abides by policy, and contributes to a positive and productive work and learning environment Engages in continuous learning by participating in activities, training and events related to Indigenous engagement, reconciliation, equity, diversity and inclusion Demonstrates respect and dignity for all members of the community, actively contributes to an environment of acceptance and inclusion of others, and responds to different perspectives from a place of curiosity, respect and non-judgment Ability to travel occasionally in and out of the province and work outside regular hours as required Undertakes related duties, as assigned, consistent with the nature of the position.  Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing or a related field; a graduate degree is an asset Minimum five years’ experience in communications or marketing with progression in level of responsibility, including a breadth of experience developing and implementing all areas of strategic communications plans, preferably in a post-secondary or similar setting Advanced knowledge of communication principles Strong writing skills to effectively communicate to diverse audiences across multiple platforms. Demonstrated ability to synthesize complex information into lay language. Copy editing, fact checking and verbal communication skills are critical to this role. Knowledge of Canadian Press (CP) style is an asset Demonstrated experience with photography, video production/editing and social media content development/curation Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a flexible and changing work environment. Must be highly reliable and display self-motivation and leadership skills Ability to plan, deliver and manage community outreach initiatives in a team environment Demonstrated client service orientation Strong problem solving, strategic and creative thinking skills Demonstrated ability to work independently and meet deadlines on multiple projects with competing demands Knowledge, understanding and/or openness to learn about issues (including cultural, socio-economic and other factors) affecting Indigenous peoples Ability to identify opportunities and analyze data to inform decisions Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively within a diverse environment and build relationships with a broad range of stakeholders Excellent interpersonal skills Ability to use and leverage technology effectively Previous experience working in agriculture, animal health, research or health care is an asset Experience and knowledge of the communications and marketing function at the University of Saskatchewan considered an asset In addition to a cover letter and resume, applicants are asked to include the following: At least three samples of published storiesAt least three samples of video content/stories