Communications and Marketing Specialist

Who we are

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has an international reputation for excellence in managing the natural resources of the largest inland river system in southern Ontario. Our team is made up of committed and passionate experts in their fields, including scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, stewards, planners, foresters, recreation experts and much more. Every day, we come to work to improve the health of the natural environment of the Grand River watershed for those who call it home or come to visit. We are a progressive team, dedicated to lifelong learning, collaboration and making a positive impact.

Who you are

You want to be part of an organization with an environmental goal. You want the work you do to make a difference. You like a team environment where everyone has an opportunity to contribute to achieve a shared goal, no matter their background or level of education and experience. You like problem solving, expanding your horizons and making even the smallest positive impact for your community and the planet.

Why work for us

At the GRCA, we don’t just talk about work-life balance, we promote and encourage it. We offer flexible work hours, one day a week working from home, and wellness initiatives like onsite yoga and an Employee Assistance Program. Our team feels a connection to their work, each other and the community we serve, and when you’re “at the office”, you won’t feel like you’re “at the office.” Our Administration Centre is located in a tucked away, natural oasis next to the Shade’s Mills reservoir, where a walk or lunch at the picnic tables provides the opportunity to be immersed in nature.

We offer staff development plans and open doors to help advance your career. And our employees benefit from being part of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS), with 100% matching contributions from GRCA.

Overview of the opportunity

The GRCA is looking for a skilled, creative and passionate communications writer and designer with strong data and technical expertise. This role will work collaboratively to draft, develop and design compelling communications and marketing products in a variety of formats that are easy to understand, capture attention, and help meet the GRCA’s strategic priorities.

Reporting to the Manager of Strategic Communications and Environmental Education, this role is a great choice for someone who can take the initiative, think outside the box, and leverage visual tools to tell the GRCA’s stories. This role is also a great choice for someone who stays on top of digital communications trends and tools and knows how to mine and analyze the data to better use platforms to reach key audiences.

What you’ll do:
1. Work with the Manager of Strategic Communications and Environmental Education to prepare, implement, and evaluate the success of communications and marketing plans and campaigns. Support communications strategy and planning by assisting with the preparation and/or coordination of tactical action plans.

2. Write, edit, proofread, and post content to the website and social media channels and ensure adherence to GRCA brand standards and guidelines.

3. Design and prepare artwork and graphics for web, digital, print, signage and advertising. Liaise with external suppliers as needed to ensure timely, cost-effective and quality work.

4. Provide technical expertise and visual layouts in the creation and production of a wide range of products including digital newsletter/blog, advertisements, posters, publications, marketing materials, social media posts, website content, etc.

5. Create and coordinate the production of display material for public meetings and events, and attend special events as assigned.

6. Monitor, measure and analyze digital engagement and research data to assist the Manager of Strategic Communications and Environmental Education with setting the strategic direction.

7. Support the Senior Communications and Marketing Advisor and/or Manager of Strategic Communications and Environmental Education by carrying out basic media relations functions, e.g., daily monitoring, internal newsletter distribution.

8. Produce photos and videos for GRCA digital and print communication products and maintain a digital media library for communications and marketing use.

9. Use content management systems to publish website content and support content writers.

10. Provide technical expertise to staff across the organization in the areas of website maintenance, visual and online communications and design. Provide guidance in the development of communications and marketing content and materials to help ensure compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).

11. In consultation with the Manager of Strategic Communications and Environmental Education, assist in the development of strategic communications policies and procedures, including the use of emerging intelligence