Job Description

DescriptionThis position is a part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).In accordance with the , this position offers a comprehensive benefits package found on our and annual salary range of $76,135 to $104,709. This position has an initial appointment of 2 years with possibility of renewal.Location - This role is in-person at North Campus Edmonton.Working at the University of AlbertaThe University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, M\xc3\xa9tis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to more than 14,000 faculty and staff, over 40,000 students and 260,000 alumni worldwide.Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. .Working for GlycoNetCreated in 2015, the Canadian Glycomics Network (GlycoNet) is a $125M initiative funded by the federal Centres of Networks of Excellence (NCE), Strategic Science Funding (SSF), Canadian Foundation for Innovation-Major Science Innovation (CFI-MSI), Genome Canada, provincial and industrial partners, which comprises 190 research teams (estimated 600 students and staff) from 36 Canadian academic institutions. GlycoNet is a not-for-profit corporation registered in eight Canadian provinces and, as such, complies with the Not-For-Profit Corporate Act and its own set of By-Laws. As part of the GlycoNet Host agreement with the University of Alberta (the University), the Network administrative team, that provides management and support to all GlycoNet initiatives and administers funding, will be made up of employees from the University of Alberta. To ensure better efficiency, it has been recognized that GlycoNet should operate as a University Department.Position SummaryThe Communications Lead acts as the GlycoNet Director of Communications and reports to the Executive Director who acts as GlycoNet CEO The incumbent supports the GlycoNet CEO in all aspects of communications including developing, implementing and monitoring the Network communications strategies, plans, and initiatives for both internal and external audiences. Working closely with the Network Investigators in various universities, the Incumbent proactively identifies and promotes research topics and successes through various media means (articles, interviews, social media, pictures and videos).Duties

• Develop and implement strategic goals and a comprehensive operational plan to enhance GlycoNet's profile across various communication channels including public relations, marketing, and web strategy.
• Actively create and manage content for various communication platforms including web, ads, newsletters, special events, brochures, and videos, ensuring alignment with GlycoNet's strategic communications goals.
• Collaborate with the finance team to administer the annual budget for the communication portfolio, helping to control all related expenditures and financial resources.
• Oversee the RFP process and negotiate contracts with consultants and firms that support communication initiatives.
• Develop and implement communications and marketing strategies that effectively raise awareness about GlycoNet on both national and international levels.
• Manage media relationships, coordinating proactive and reactive media engagements, and ensuring consistent messaging across all media outputs.
• Design and implement a targeted public relations program to support GlycoNet's mission and increase its visibility.
• Create and maintain a communications calendar, ensuring all content across web, print, and other media is aligned with GlycoNet's strategic communications goals.
• Develop strategic communications materials such as press releases, newsletters, brochures, and annual reports.
• Ensure compliance with GlycoNet's reporting requirements to funding agencies, including the preparation of an annual bilingual corporate report.
• Develop and maintain an effective web strategy, ensuring GlycoNet's online presence is aligned with its mission and current priorities, and manage social media platforms and web-based campaigns.
• Plan and manage significant events, such as the Scientific AGM and the annual Canadian Glycomics Symposium, including developing scientific programs, organizing materials and multimedia, securing sponsorships, and promoting events through various channels.
• Direct updates and broadcasting of event details on the Symposium website and social media platforms, enhancing participant engagement and attendance.

Minimum Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a closely related field required.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in communications or public relations, demonstrating a thorough understanding of communication principles and practices.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to translate technical information into everyday language for diverse audiences.
• Strong editorial capabilities with experience crafting content for web, ads, newsletters, special events, brochures, videos, etc.
• Proven experience developing and implementing social media strategies.
• Demonstrated proficiency with web content management systems, preferably WordPress.
• Proficient in desktop publishing applications such as Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with media, senior management, and various stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented and highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
• Capable of working effectively in both team settings and independently with minimal supervision.
• Experience with media relations, including story identification, pitching, and engaging with various media outlets.
• Valid class 5 drivers license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in an international research collaboration setting is highly valued.
• Undergraduate degree in Science is an asset.
• Fluency in both French and English is an asset.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.The University of Alberta is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women; First Nations, M\xc3\xa9tis and Inuit persons; members of visible minority groups; persons with disabilities; persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression; and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.Note: This opportunity will be available until midnight May 12, 2024, Edmonton, Alberta local time.

University of Alberta