Communications Officer, University Library

**Communications Officer, University Library**:
As one of Canada’s leading research libraries, the University Library serves as the intellectual hub of USask, providing resources, services, and spaces that facilitate inquiry, discovery, and knowledge creation. The University Library is committed to developing welcoming, responsive, and accessible services and resources to support our diverse clientele, with a strategic focus on Indigenous peoples.

**Primary Purpose**: To provide leadership in the development and implementation of innovative, effective, and reliable communication strategies to advance the reputation, priorities, and goals of the University Library in alignment with the University’s strategic plan.

**Nature of Work**: Reporting to the Dean, University Library and working closely with the Library Management Team, the Officer will work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to ensure strategic messaging and university/library initiatives are met and raise the profile of the University Library locally and nationally. The position involves considerable judgement and discretionary decision-making in the development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of communications plans. The incumbent will garner an in-depth understanding of the University Library and its stakeholders, use a proactive and strategic approach in a complex, dynamic, and fast-paced environment, and be able to communicate effectively to diverse audiences. The Officer will use their curious nature to work both independently and collaboratively with other members in the University Library, University Relations, university administration, and key stakeholders to meet strategic goals.
Establishing and maintaining positive relationships is essential to success. Flexibility will be required occasionally for work outside of normal operating hours.

**Accountabilities**:

- Plan, prepare, and implement annual and long-term internal and external communications strategies to support and advance the strategic directions of the University Library as well as raise the profile and advance the reputation of the library locally and nationally.
- As part of a dynamic team within the library and with our campus partners, provide exceptional communications leadership, maintain an awareness of library initiatives and activities, and inspire success by fostering an environment of collaboration and support.
- In collaboration with the Director of External Engagement, develop and implement events to engage the community and promote the library and its related projects and initiatives.
- Manage the library’s website and social media channels ensuring content is accurate, appealing to audiences, and updated regularly; assist others with content development and work collaboratively to post information.
- Ensure communications messaging is consistent for the library and university
- Serve as a steward of the university and library’s reputation and visual identities.
- Build and maintain relationships with special attention to all library stakeholders.
- Manage budgetary requirements of communication activities, making cost-effective recommendations and effective use of resources.
- Participate in University Relations meetings, team planning, and other activities that contribute to achieving university-wide goals in communications.
- Write news stories and support media relations, as required.
- Other projects as assigned.

**Education**: An undergraduate university degree, preferably in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism, or a related field. A combination of education and experience may be considered.

**Experience**:

- A minimum of five years of directly related communication experience with a demonstrated progression in level of responsibility, including a breadth of experience developing and implementing all areas of strategic communications plans.
- Experience with using website content management systems will be considered an asset.
- Experience with photography and graphic and accessibility design will be considered an asset.

**Skills**:

- Record of recognizing, respecting, and working effectively with individuals and groups from diverse perspectives and backgrounds, encouraging change, and engaging colleagues in implementing communication strategies.
- Demonstrated strong leadership, analytical, and organizational skills, including the ability to effectively plan and manage multiple projects and adjust to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Proven ability to develop written content for a variety of communication vehicles
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively and be self-motivated and reliable
- Ability to problem-solve, think, and act strategically and creatively
- Attention to detail, discretion, a high level of integrity, and independent judgment are required
- Highly organized with polished presentation and interpersonal skills
- Excellent communication skills, both wri