Manager, Communications

Under the strategic direction of the Associate Vice-President Communications and Marketing, Communications provides a centre for initiatives and services, including government relations, university communications, internal communications, news services, media relations and editorial services. The work of the communications unit and the objectives of communications initiatives are defined by the university’s strategic goals and relate to all audiences. Whether they are members of the internal or external community, prospects, students or alumni, donors, members of the public, government or media, Communications connects people to the university’s mission and unique value proposition.

Strategic communications is a key support function to the Office of VP Communications and Advancement and the executive, with two high-level responsibilities and strategic priorities that link directly to business goals and organizational success:

- Manage institutional reputation and enhance relevance
- Strengthen relationships to expand influence and create partnerships

Reporting to the Associate Vice President (AVP) of Communications and providing direct support to the VPCA and the President as required, the Communications Manager collaborates with the AVP in a harmonized leadership approach, prioritizing the university’s values of caring, creativity and courageous. The manager plays a key role in planning and managing communications strategies for the university and provides leadership and direction to the communications team. The manager provides strategic insight and judgment for issues management and media relations in collaboration with the AVP; works with the Manager, Digital Experience to manage university news and digital storytelling, manages media relations, issues management and external and internal communications; and acts as backup for the AVP Communications as required.
- Job Requirements- A graduate degree or equivalent in communications, public relations or a related field plus a minimum of seven years of relevant experience (or an equivalent combination of education and experience), preferably in the public sector.
- Advanced writing and editing skills, including experience writing speeches, editorials, feature articles, news and related communications materials.
- Ability to manage a large volume of competing priorities and quickly and efficiently produce and complete communications strategies and materials.
- Excellent people, organizational, project and time management skills, including the ability to work to tight deadlines and deal with a high degree of organizational complexity.
- Coaching experience, working collaboratively with a team of writers and experience writing for senior executives are considered strong assets.
- Demonstrated experience across all communications platforms and channels, including social media.
- Strong interpersonal and verbal communications skills, including the ability to deal sensitively with critical issues.
- Advanced organizational, project management and time management skills, including the ability to work to deadlines.
- Demonstrated success in developing and implementing communications plans.
- Proven planning, performance management, budgeting and supervisory skills.
- Independent initiative, sound judgment and strategic decision-making abilities.
- Additional Information- This is a regular, full-time position working 37.5 hours per week. This position has been evaluated at ME-A with a salary range of $91,281 (minimum) to $107,389 (midpoint) to $123,499 (maximum) per annum. Employment offers will normally be made between the minimum and midpoint of the range and are determined by knowledge, experience and internal equity. The University is pleased to offer a comprehensive benefit package. Royal Roads University is strongly committed to fostering diversity within our community. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our faculty and staff including, but not limited to, women, visible minorities, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity.