Job Description

Scope of Position

Reporting to the VP, Product and Marcomm, the Director oversees communication for Alterna. They ensure through leading, creating, implementing, and managing corporate and external communications activities across the organization that we are in line with the corporate strategy.



The successful candidate will bring enthusiasm, passion, and a commitment to excellence to the role. They will apply their advanced people leadership skills and communications expertise in the execution of multi-channel corporate communication activities that include social media.

Major Responsibilities

Develops strategy planning and execution for the coordination of short- and long-term corporate communication strategies and annual plans. Collaborates with key stakeholders in Communications, Marketing, Product, and other business areas to develop content strategy for external audiences. Collaborates with cross-functional teams to develop and deliver communication strategies for execution of business initiatives. Leads and manages required change management communications for corporate priorities and projects. Collaborates and aligns closely on communications led by the Director Strategy and Corporate Performance including Town Halls, AGM scripting, Executive/CEO communications, and employee newsletters. Develops and maintains brand standards for employee and member/client communication through the development and execution of templates, communications standards and materials for the organization. Owns the ongoing content plan for all communications channels. Oversees copywriting and brand review of external communications and publications, including, but not limited to, blogs, annual summaries, community reports, all print collateral, direct mail, web content, PowerPoint presentations, event support materials, etc. Owns the development and identification of industry/innovation award submissions that elevate our brand. Oversees the identification and mitigation of reputational risks through strategic communications. Develops, facilitates, and measures the success of public relations activities aimed at raising the organization's public profile. Helps to fully activate the value of corporate sponsorships in collaboration with the marketing team. Leads communications for the Business Continuity Program; develops strategy, messaging and implements tactics to respond to crisis situations. Monitors and reports on the success of corporate communication initiatives. Tracks and records performance of spend against budget. Acts as an ambassador for Alterna's brand through the presentation of a professional image, diplomacy and the ability to champion corporate communications and marketing initiatives. Performs other duties as assigned.

Expectations / Outcomes

Communications enhance member/client understanding through consistent, professional language that reflects the Alterna brand. Communication activities are aligned with the strategic direction and overall corporate goals of the organization; and seek to expand Alterna's scope and presence with existing members/clients and the public. Communications objectives and goals are met. Alterna is positioned positively to the public. Successful implementation of corporate communications as per corporate strategy.

Qualifications

Post-secondary Degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing or related disciplines with a minimum of seven years' in progressively more senior communications roles. Minimum of 4 years' experience in a similar role at this level 7 years' experience in a leadership role and people management Significant knowledge and experience developing content for social media including video and other digital communication technologies Experience at measuring the success and impact of communications strategies. Advanced writing skills with a proven ability to edit content into text that is clear, consistent and easy to understand for a variety of mediums. Experience working in financial services is an asset. Bilingualism (French/English) is a strong asset. High level of proficiency in all MS Office suite products.

Key Skills and Competencies

Strong team player with demonstrated leadership skills. Knowledge of strategy development and execution. Knowledge of communication and strategic policy principles and practices; public relations and publicity techniques; visual and digital communication principles Knowledge of brand, marketing and advertising principles and practices. Knowledge of project management and change management methodologies and techniques required to plan, manage and execute projects. Skilled in providing a customer-centric approach to communications. Ability to write and speak clearly, concisely, persuasively and targeted to the appropriate audience. Ability to balance multiple stakeholders demands and negotiate consensus on preferred approaches, dealing with sensitive issues professionally and discreetly. Ability to identify issues that require communication intervention (issues management - proactive and reactive).

About Alterna Savings

Alterna Savings and Credit Union Limited (Alterna) has delivered The Good in Banking for over 115 years creating financial services that transform lives for the better, all while giving back to our community. Alterna is made up of Alterna Savings and Credit Union Limited and its wholly owned subsidiary, Alterna Bank.



Alterna is the first full-service, member-owned cooperative financial institution outside Quebec, sharing its expertise with over 210,000 members through a network comprised of 40 branches across Ontario, a call centre and multiple digital channels. Members and customers also benefit from an industry-leading online brokerage and investment management services.



To learn more about Alterna Savings, please visit alterna.ca, X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

Working at Alterna

We are incredibly proud of our corporate culture, embodying our core values: Collaboration, Integrity, and Respect, where everyone works together towards a common goal; the financial wellbeing of our employees, members, and customers. This commitment has earned us several prestigious employer awards, including the National Capital Region's Top Employers award for eight years running.


We appreciate all applicants; however, preference will be given to candidates who most closely meet the qualifications, key skills, and competencies outlined above.

* Alterna is compliant with the Ontarians with Disabilities Act and our team strives to provide an accessible accommodation experience. If you have a disability and require accommodations during the recruitment process, please contact our Recruitment Team and let us know how we can accommodate you.