Job Description

Under the general direction of the Manager of Communications, the Communications Officer provides strategic communications expertise within their assigned portfolio. This position is responsible for delivering timely and accurate messaging to the media, the public, and to internal audiences. They will be required to take a complete and integrated approach to communications through collaboration with other branches, departments, and agencies, which may include, but are not limited to, social media, web, marketing, advertising, and public engagement activities, as well as integration with French Language Services. The Communications Officer will also serve as a member of the City\xe2\x80\x99s Emergency Public Information Team. As the Communications Officer, you will:

• Coordinate the external and internal strategic communications initiatives for your assigned portfolio.
• Identify emerging issues and proactively and effectively manage issues to preserve an accurate and positive image for the City.
• Coordinate logistics of communications-related events for your assigned portfolio.
• Work collaboratively as a part of the Communications team.

• Diploma in Creative Communications, Bachelor\xe2\x80\x99s Degree in Public Relations, Communications, Political Studies, or Journalism, or an equivalent combination of education and experience in the field of public relations may be considered.

• Accredited Public Relations or Business Communicator is considered an asset.

• Active membership in Canadian Public Relations Society is considered an asset.

• Experience in the management of high-profile public issues.

• Three (3) years of experience in the field of public relations, including issues management, preferably in the public sector environment.

• Demonstrated experience developing strategic communications plans/programs at the corporate level.

• Ability to positively influence staff, exercise sound judgment, and execute decisions in a manner consistent with corporate values.

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain effective, positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders including the public, media, elected officials, senior management, etc.

• Demonstrated expertise in dealing with the media and establishing a network of media contacts (print, TV, electronic).

• Demonstrated expertise in internal communications.

• Demonstrated knowledge of communications theory and best practices.

• Strong organizational and project management skills with demonstrated ability to prioritize and coordinate work to a deadline in a high volume workplace with tight deadlines.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently in a high-stress environment, initiating, planning, and completing communications projects with minimal direction.

• Experience with, and proficiency using a variety of computer applications; specifically, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), social media platforms/applications along with the aptitude for learning new software applications.

• Demonstrated ability to build consensus, generate common understanding, and create shared vision in an environment of diverse stakeholders and interests.

• Proven ability to exercise discretion, diplomacy, and confidentiality.

• High level of political acumen