Communications & PR Specialist

Position Job Title: Communications and PR Specialist

Location: University of Niagara Falls Canada (Onsite)

Reports To: Associate Director, Marketing

Salary Range: $65,000 - $75,000

Position Overview

The primary purpose of the Communications and PR Specialist position is to lead and manage communications and PR strategy for the University of Niagara Falls Canada. The Communications and PR Specialist will also be responsible to oversee and develop key messages for the departments and university initiatives, including writing, editing, proof-reading, employee and student communications, creative ad copy writing, SEO, blogs, stories and website content.

The Communications and PR Specialist will focus on developing a sound communications and PR strategy and creating clear and concise communications for the university. The Communications and PR Specialist will develop the overarching messaging to brand the University including overseeing all communications projects as assigned by the Associate Director of Marketing.

Key Responsibilities

• The Communications and PR Specialist will at various times be responsible for the following as well as other related duties as assigned to support the business objectives and purpose of the University:
• Develop University, Faculty, Alumni and Student stories and pitching to the media for optimal coverage.
• Oversee student, alumni communications, internal communications as needed.
• Develop a crisis communications plan.
• Develop all recruitment and other marketing collateral including digital campaign copy as needed.
• Oversee the content strategy for social media, reputation management and to provide coverage for social media management as needed.
• Develop compelling copy for blog posts, emails/newsletters, print and digital ad campaigns.
• Write clear and concise copy for the website while optimizing SEO performance.
• Work with other departments within the University to determine communications needs and fulfil those requests in a timely manner.
• Stay up to date on industry trends and make recommendations for adjustments to communications strategies and practices.
• Oversee the University's SWAG and inventory management.
• Provide photography coverage for key university events and capture high-quality images for Current, Roundup, the website and other internal and external communications.
• Monitor, analyze and report on the performance of communications and public relations initiatives, providing insights and recommendations to improve engagement and reach.
• Develop speeches, key messages, briefing notes, presentations and communications materials for senior leadership.
• Ensure all communications align with the University's brand standards, messaging framework, and editorial guidelines.
• Other duties as assigned

Position Requirements

Education and Experience

• Post Secondary Degree/Diploma in Communications, journalism, marketing or a related field.
• Minimum 5 - 8 years of experience producing copy for marketing campaigns (including experience in writing creative ad copy, PPC copy, paid social ads and SEO content).
• Demonstrated expertise in writing compelling and creative copy for various mediums.
• Able to interpret information and conduct research.
• Experience managing social media accounts.

Competencies

• To be successful in the Communications and PR Specialist position, individuals must be committed to developing, maintaining and demonstrating the following:
• Mastery of written English - grammar, syntax, and punctuation.
• Ability to adjust writing style for the audience of a particular communication.
• Familiar with communication best practices and how to communicate effectively.
• Keen eye for detail and ability to edit written copy and to spot errors.
• Work experience writing ad copy, PPC copy, paid social ads and SEO content.
• Ability to juggle and prioritize multiple projects at once and complete by stated deadlines.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to complete work in a timely manner with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Good judgment and ability to prioritize assignments.
• Ability to work under pressure and maintain a calm focus during hectic periods.
• General understanding of the programs and services provided by the University.
• Ability to exhibit a professional attitude and image with a commitment to quality service.

Use of AI Disclosure

University of Niagara Falls Canada (UNF), is committed to a fair and transparent recruitment process. While AI tools assist us in identifying and communicating with candidates, applications are reviewed by our dedicated Talent Acquisition team to ensure a thorough evaluation of all candidates.

We value diversity and strive to create an inclusive environment where all individuals have an equal opportunity to succeed. We comply with all relevant laws and regulations in Ontario and adhere to the highest standards of ethical hiring. We are committed to protecting your personal information and ensuring that all data collected during the recruitment process is handled with the highest level of confidentiality.

Diversity, inclusion and equity

The University of Niagara Falls Canada (UNF) is strongly committed to equity, diversity, and inclusivity within its community and especially invites applications from all qualified candidates. Racialized persons/persons of color, women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas are encouraged to apply.

We recognize that applicants may have had obligations outside of work that have negatively impacted their record of achievements (e.g., parental responsibilities, elder care, medical treatment). You are not required to disclose these obligations in the hiring process. If you choose to do so, UNF will ensure that these obligations do not negatively impact the assessment of your qualifications for the position.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

We will accommodate the needs of the applicants adhering to the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) throughout all stages of the selection process. Please advise to ensure your accessibility needs are accommodated through this process. Information received relating to accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

We appreciate all applications received; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.