Communications Officer

The Communications Officer is responsible for the development, implementation and evaluation of communication programs in support of organizational initiatives. The Communications Officer provides public relations counsel and support to the organization and maintains understanding, acceptance and cooperation between the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) and its stakeholders.

**Job Duties**:
Researches, writes and edits communications plans, internal and external publications (e.g. annual reports, newsletters, brochures), news releases, articles, website content, letters and social media posts, presentations and speeches/speaking notes, including those written for senior leadership, the Executive Management Committee and the Minister, as well as other material provided to the Minister’s office and/or other government bodies.

Manages, edits and coordinates layout and design of organizational literature and graphic displays created by external vendors to ensure projects are completed on time.

Ensures maintenance and integrity of WCB and SAFE Work Manitoba brand standards.

Performs some layout and design internally (e.g., publications, presentations, signs and documents).

Leads social marketing campaigns by working with the business areas to conduct in-depth analysis.

Works with the organization's agency of record to develop research objectives.

Provides communication advice, support and project management assistance to leadership, corporate/organizational project teams, committees, departments and external stakeholders. This includes training to staff on communication styles and brand management guidelines; providing technical support to intranet content publishers and department website editors; and assisting in the development of key messages and creative concepts.

Manages the WCB and SAFE Work Manitoba websites, intranet, and social media channels, including the development of annual digital content strategies, creating, updating and maintaining content and measuring analytics to evaluate performance and identify trends.

Manages, organizes, co-ordinates and evaluates internal and external special events including town halls, open houses, trade shows, conferences, media events and announcements for internal and external stakeholders.

Establishes and maintains positive relationships with third party providers (i.e. agency of record, web support, translation services), industry associations and other external stakeholders to provide support/guidance and promote organizational programs and services.

Participates in the development and evaluation of departmental RFPs for external suppliers (e.g., marketing agency of record, media monitoring, translation and interpretation, etc).

Conducts ongoing reviews to ensure that communications materials and tactics developed meet changing demographic needs of customers and manages necessary updates. This includes brainstorming sessions with stakeholders and business units to generate new ideas in promoting services and creating communication support materials.

Oversees and edits the work of other contributors to internal and external publications, websites and other written projects.

Provides creative direction and works with videographer to create internal and external videos that enhance organizational programs and services. Develops, writes and edits video outlines and/or scripts.

Provides some photographic services for the organization.

Develops and makes presentations to internal and external audiences/stakeholders.

Pursues professional and personal development through continuing education and training, literature reviews, and workshops, seminars, etc. to ensure continued expertise and knowledge of the latest communication trends/technologies and best practices.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

**Qualifications**:
University degree in Communications, Public Relations or Journalism

Minimum three (3) years' experience working in a similar government or corporate environment including developing, executing and evaluating communication, public relations, and/or advertising plans and strategies

Working knowledge of digital/social media and the internet

Ability to use a personal computer and software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and desktop publishing) in a Windows environment

Superior written communication skills. Adept at writing to target audiences with a focus on customer-centred communication to support business goals.

Ability to understand and explain complex information and concepts and customize messaging to suit intended audiences

Superior verbal communication skills, including public speaking

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to act with tact, diplomacy, integrity and professionalism

Ability to provide excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders

Ability to manage multiple demands and work under pressure within tight deadlines

Ability to adapt to a changing environment

Ability to work independently and