Communications Specialist

**ABOUT US**:
Port of Thunder Bay provides harbour administration and supports economic development by investing in port infrastructure, promoting port capabilities, and building sustainable business practices.

Thunder Bay is the westernmost Canadian port on the Great Lakes - St. Lawrence Seaway System, the largest inland waterway in the world. Our opportunities are largely determined by the Port’s strategic role as it relates to the Seaway corridor and marine shipping, the greenest mode of transportation. The Port was built to provide access to European markets for Western Canadian grain producers through the longest grain supply chain in the world.

At the heart of our operation is Keefer Terminal, a significant marine transportation, and intermodal terminal. Other business segments include Harbour Park Industrial Park and Intercity Site, a brownfield marine facility available for development.

The Port’s strategy focuses on expanding Keefer Terminal as a hub for general and project cargo to and from Western Canada and international markets. We coordinate with stevedores, trucking companies, equipment operators, railways, and fabricators to ensure that efficient cargo handling and provide value to shippers via Thunder Bay, The Superior Way West.

The mission and vision of Port of Thunder Bay will be realized through the Port’s strategic objectives, which form a framework for decision-making:

- Increase and Diversify Marine Cargo
- Invest in Strategic Infrastructure
- Promote Partnerships and Engagement

Port of Thunder Bay is dedicated to driving growth, enhancing connectivity, and contributing to the economic prosperity of the region we serve.

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The Communications Specialist is an important member of our team, responsible for executing and monitoring communication activities. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Communications Specialist will create and manage marketing and public relations materials, track and reports analytics, coordinate events and serves as a key point of contact for stakeholders.

**KEY RESPONSIBILITIES**:
**1. Communications**
- Assist in developing and implementing the annual communications plan and ensuring overall corporate identity and brand consistency.
- Prepare and distribute advertising, marketing, and communication materials.
- Develop social media content, respond to inquiries, and monitor appropriate stakeholder accounts.
- Respond to media inquiries for general information, photos and statistics, and foster media relations to ensure appropriate representation of Port brand and identity.
- Update Port/Port Authority listings in various directories and reports.
- Assist with website operation, including regular updates (i.e. statistics) and ensuring French translation.
- Assist with trade shows and media opportunities (i.e. receptions) by preparing display materials, setting-up and staffing booth (may include some out-of-town travel).
- Assist with event preparation including invitations to officials and media (i.e. Top Hat ceremonies, Annual General Meeting, Opening of Navigation Luncheon).
- Represent the organization at various events.
- Maintain an inventory of promotional items.

**2. Administration**
- Prepare or compile miscellaneous correspondence, memos and reports as required.
- Assist in the preparation of legal documentation including leases, contracts, and tenders.
- Assemble and input information for Board of Directors and Committee meetings into Board Portal software.
- Maintain the corporate library and all administrative files (i.e. licenses, property).
- Order business cards and name tags for staff and directors.
- Photocopy and bind documents.
- Provide secretarial and administrative support to staff.
- Manage special projects and duties as assigned.

**3. Office Operations**
- Greet visitors and answer telephone calls alongside the Accounting and Media Communications Assistant.
- Prepare and send faxes, mail, and courier packages.
- Coordinate with suppliers when purchasing office equipment (printers, copiers, fax, computers).
- Arrange meetings for staff.
- Process seminar registrations and travel arrangements.
- Administer office telephone system (i.e. maintain telephone directories, update greeting messages).
- Perform general office duties (i.e. open/close office, prepare meeting rooms, order lunches, fill copy/fax machine paper, stock refrigerator, empty dishwasher).

**QUALIFICATIONS**:
**Education/Experience**
- Diploma or degree in communications, business, or a related field.
- Experience in a business communications role is considered an asset.
- Minimum of two (2) years experience with social media and digital marketing.

**Skills and Abilities**
- Superior ability to communicate effectively, both written and verbal.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- Strong organization, administrative and project management skills, including excellent attention to detail and the ability to work independently with mínimal direction.
- Ab