Writer/Multimedia Storyteller

Kwantlen Polytechnic University

KPU offers all learners opportunities to achieve success in a diverse range of programs that blend theory and practice, critical understanding, and social and ethical awareness necessary for good citizenship and rewarding careers.  KPU strives to implement initiatives that will attract, support, engage, and retain KPU’s people and create an environment where all employees see themselves as contributing to student learning.

JOB OVERVIEW:  WRITER/MULTIMEDIA STORYTELLER

Reporting to the Manager, Marketing Operations, the Writer/Multimedia Storyteller will provide on-going writing and editing services which include, but are not limited to: research, writing, editing for print, web, digital and social media and coordinating written marketing projects related to University marketing and recruitment.  This position will establish, encourage and maintain strong business relationships with internal KPU departments in order to serve their writing and promotional needs through all mediums - print, digital, social media, websites and other advertising and promotional means. 

The Writer/Multimedia Specialist will assist in the implementation of content strategy for all KPU advertising and marketing initiatives and is responsible for developing compelling KPU stories in order to market the university, elevate the brand and recruit students.  The utmost priority for this position will be to work with the Managers and staff within the Marketing and Communications department to determine the written projects required, research the stories – including interviewing faculty, students, staff, parents and external individuals and create engaging pieces to market KPU - providing the information in the most efficient means to reach the mass KPU target markets.

The incumbent will develop and implement support services for the Marketing and Communications department by providing writing and copy, editing expertise, and planning and coordinating services for other departments and service groups.  The position will also assist in formulating plans, projects and processes that the department will undertake and perform all clerical duties related to the position.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Successful completion of a degree or diploma in Marketing, Journalism, Professional Writing or Communications, or an equivalent combination of education, and three years related experience and training may   be acceptable with a proven portfolio.
• Minimum two years’ experience with creating, writing/editing content for marketing materials – specifically writing content for marketing collateral, advertising, digital and social media.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A portfolio of at least five samples of writing with a marketing and sales focus showcasing content and creativity – for advertising, print, digital and social media.
• Proven experience of at least one year of growing audiences on all social media channels and using Hootsuite and/or Sprout as a tracking and management tool. 
• Previous experience in higher education and/or agency is highly desirable. 
• Training and experience in marketing principles, technical writing, marketing writing, creative writing, media studies and writing for digital, social media and blogs would be an asset.
• Superior marketing writing, editing and proofreading skills for a variety of mediums
• Effective presentation skills and proven success working with different personalities and across functional departments to develop stories for marketing purposes.
• Recent related experience working with website, content management systems – experience with Drupal would be an asset.
• Proven experience using social media, developing on-going social media campaigns to send out appropriate messages to targeted audiences and experience in successfully managing multiple social networks with consistent, timely messages and the ability to analyse and report on them.
• Demonstrated advanced writing, editing, and proof-reading skills for communication vehicles that deliver key messages to both general and highly targeted audiences.
• Proven experience writing with a marketing focus for a variety of audiences and in different voices – students, parents, faculty, staff, executive, external communities as well as government and media – for education, info sharing, advertising, promotion, etc.
• Intermediate knowledge in the use of computer software applications including word processing (MS Word), spread sheets (Excel), presentations (PowerPoint, Prezi) and desktop publishing skills in a PC environment using Microsoft Office. 
• Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite CS5 and Photoshop.
• Experience with principles and processes for providing customer service to clients/ departments within the University as well as external audiences - includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task, organize and prioritize work effectively in a fast-paced environment while meeting deadlines.
• Demonstrated English language proficiency in spelling, grammar, punctuation and writing skills. 
• Must have excellent oral, written and presentation skills.
• A team player with the ability to communicate and build effective relationships with individuals in the University community and external communities.  
• Proven self-starter who seeks challenges and demonstrated ability to exercise a high level of initiative and responsibility with minimal supervision with the ability to maintain a high degree of tact, diplomacy and confidentiality.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule if required, including occasional evenings and weekends.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle is required.

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Salary Information

Annual salary increases are based on hours worked and anniversary dates

Please note:   As per the KPU-BCGEU Collective Agreement, qualified internal applicants within the BCGEU bargaining unit are given first consideration in filling this position. Internal applicants must apply by   11:59pm on the internal closing date in order to be   considered as an internal applicant. Internal applications received after the closing date will be considered as an external applicant.