Manager, Media Relations

**About the Calgary Stampede**

The Calgary Stampede is a not-for-profit community organization that preserves and celebrates our western heritage, cultures, and community spirit. Exemplifying the theme, We’re Greatest Together, the Stampede is one of the most respected volunteer-based organizations in the world governed by a volunteer Board of Directors with thousands of passionate volunteers and year-round employees.

The Calgary Stampede is a world-class, year-round gathering place that welcomes guests from Calgary, southern Alberta, and around the world. Building on a proud history, we are committed to strengthening our role as a purpose-driven, trusted organization reflective of diverse communities. The Stampede is dedicated to creating a safe, fair, and equitable environment, delivering inclusive and welcoming programs, and ongoing engagement with our communities as we align and celebrate different perspectives and our western heritage and culture.

**Position Summary**

The Manager, Media Relations & Communications is a member of the Corporate Communications team, reporting to the Vice President, Communications and Volunteer Services. The position is responsible for leading the center of expertise for Calgary Stampede’s external communications that enable the Stampede to achieve its strategic objectives and vision.

The Calgary Stampede is looking for an experienced Manager, Communications & Media Relations to serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization, representing the Stampede with respect to media relations, publicity and issues management. In this high-visibility role, you will be responsible for developing and executing strategic communication and media plans that reflect the values of the Stampede and foster positive public engagement.

**_ Closing Date: Tuesday Oct 10, 2024_**

**Responsibilities**

Responsibilities of this role include, but are not limited to:

- **Spokesperson Role**: Act as the primary spokesperson for the Calgary Stampede, representing the organization in media engagements, news segments, and public appearances, ensuring consistent and positive messaging.
- **Communication Strategy**: Lead the development and execution of communication plans across the organization, focusing on media relations, positioning, and key messages. This includes creating and implementing animal welfare communications strategies.
- **Media Relations**: Design and implement earned media initiatives that build public awareness and positively influence perceptions of the Calgary Stampede, ensuring all initiatives are aligned with organizational objectives.
- **Executive Counsel**: Provide strategic media relations advice to the Executive Management Team, President, and Chair of the Board, particularly around publicity, issues management, and key public messaging.
- **Issues Management**: Proactively monitor public issues, manage risks, and lead crisis communications preparedness, responding quickly and effectively to emerging concerns.
- **Media Training**: Offer media training and guidance to organizational leadership, preparing them for public and media interactions.
- **Performance Monitoring**: Track and assess the effectiveness of external communications, implementing strategies for continuous improvement and alignment with the Stampede’s goals.
- **Leadership and Collaboration**: Lead and coach the communications team, fostering a collaborative environment focused on achieving strategic objectives and operational success.
- **Budget Management**: Oversee the communications budget, tracking expenditures and identifying cost-saving opportunities while ensuring maximum impact and profitability.
- **Liaison and Collaboration**: Actively participate in committee executive meetings, contributing to planning, budgeting, and decision-making around communication strategies.

**Qualifications**
- Post-secondary degree in communications, public relations, journalism or related field.
- Minimum 10 years’ experience in a similar role, including 5 years’ experience working directly in issues management.
- Remain up to date on industry trends and media best practices.
- Experience writing and speaking for broad and targeted audiences.
- Exceptionally strong writer who can translate technical information into clear captivating stories.
- Tactical understanding of primary social media platforms.
- Proactive with the ability to multi-task and handle tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent organizational and planning skills.
- Ability to manage and execute last-minute media conferences.
- Strong written, oral and interpersonal communication skills.
- Solid industry reputation with both media and stakeholders.
- Ability to anticipate and manage change recommending solutions using clear processes and methodologies.
- Experience working both independently and in a team-orientated, collaborative environment.
- Ability to build and maintain effective relationships.
- Executive p