Communications Specialist

Department:  Corporate & Co-operative Affairs
Reports to: Director, Communications
Status: Contract (18 months, maternity leave coverage)
Location: Hybrid/Head office (10 Carlson Court, Etobicoke, ON)
 
Purpose
 
Reporting to the Director, Communications, the Communications Specialist (Contract) will play a key role in supporting the execution of Gay Lea Foods' internal storytelling and engagement strategy. This position is focused on amplifying strategic priorities, culture, purpose, and values to both corporate and frontline employees, ensuring consistent, engaging, and effective communication across all internal platforms.
 
Key Responsibilities

Internal Storytelling & Engagement

Help execute the internal storytelling and engagement strategy to foster employee connection and alignment with company culture and values.
Amplify strategic priorities, culture, purpose, and values to both corporate and frontline employees.

Content Publishing & Platform Management

Lead the publishing of content on internal platforms (i.e. Staffbase intranet, site TVs), including content creation, page publishing, and content scheduling, ensuring the intranet remains accurate, engaging, and easy to navigate.
Lead the launch and ongoing management of the Social Wall for corporate and hourly employees, including the development of user guidelines, management protocols, and engagement targets.
Support content contributors by providing backend Staffbase support and training, hosting bimonthly editorial meetings, and establishing a regular posting cadence.
Manage uploading, formatting, and embedding of multimedia content (articles, videos, images) across internal platforms.

Editorial Planning & Coordination

Support editorial planning and content calendars, coordinating with stakeholders and leading editorial committee meetings to ensure storytelling is aligned and timely.
Initiate and lead quarterly content reviews for departmental intranet pages, ensuring accuracy and alignment with organizational messaging.
Publish and distribute internal communications (announcements, newsletters, articles, videos) based on messaging and direction provided by the Director, Communications.

Content Adaptation & Visual Storytelling

Adapt content for different channels and audiences, including corporate employees and frontline manufacturing teams.
Create and adapt visual assets (banners, thumbnails, infographics) using tools like Canva or Adobe InDesign to support internal campaigns.
Capture and develop impactful video content.

Corporate Website & Social Media Management

Manage corporate portions of the Gay Lea Foods website and select social media channels.

Brand Standards & Collateral Management

Provide organizational guidance and resources to ensure alignment with brand standards, policies, and Gay Lea Foods' logo requirements.
Manage access to all corporate communications collateral, including photography, videography, logos, presentations, publications, and annual reports.

Media Monitoring & Reporting

Monitor relevant media coverage and provide weekly summaries to directors and management.

Measurement & Reporting

Track, measure, and report on communications performance to assess reach, engagement, and effectiveness across all audiences.

Project & Workflow Management

Keep internal communications projects organized and on track by managing calendars, timelines, and task lists.
Support the development of streamlined workflows and processes to improve operational efficiency.

Employee Engagement Support

Provide support for internal events and engagement campaigns as needed, including logistics, communications materials, and follow-up messaging.

Qualifications:

3-5 years' experience in communications and/or public relations.
University degree or equivalent education and experience in communications, public relations, journalism or a related field.
Exceptional English communication skills, written and verbal.
Advanced computer skills including MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Advanced social media and web page skills including X (Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, and related online platforms, etc.
Proficiency with internal communications platforms (e.g., Staffbase, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams); experience with Canva, Adobe InDesign, or similar tools for visual asset creation.
Experience managing and publishing content for intranet or employee apps.
Strong organizational and analytical skills; ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
Experience in the food or manufacturing industry is an asset.
Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and a positive team player.
Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
Meticulous attention to detail and a high level of professionalism.

Gay Lea Foods is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in our workplace. Reasonable accommodation is available upon request throughout our recruitment and selection process.
 
 

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