Communications and Engagement Advisor

Section: Communications and Engagement Division: Strategic Initiatives and Communications Department: Office of the Chief Administrative Officer Initial Reporting Location: Tom Davies Square Job Status: Permanent position Number of Vacancies: 1 Union Affiliation: CUPE 4705 Inside Unit Hours of Work: 70 hours bi‑weekly Shift Work Required: No Range of Pay: Group 13 – $37.89 to $46.37 per hour The start date will follow the selection process.

Main Function: To provide communications services, reputation management, strategic counsel and community engagement support for CGS.

Responsibilities

• Plan, implement and evaluate communications programs and channels that support the business goals of the City and enhance its reputation with key stakeholders.
• Consult with internal clients, including Senior Management, directors, managers, employees and community stakeholders to understand business goals and recommend appropriate communications programs, channels and target audiences.
• Implement communication tactics in support of overall Communications plans, including writing, print publications, social media tools, website content, events, speechwriting, key messages, briefing notes, presentation materials, media relations and advertising.
• Handle sensitive/confidential information related to communications and policy matters.
• Provide public relations direction, training and assistance to CGS staff; oversee and instruct activities of students and interns.
• Research and write content for websites, digital media, marketing campaigns, promotional items, informational flyers, brochures, speeches, speaking notes, presentations, letters, briefing notes and other materials for internal clients.
• Develop and monitor budgets for Communications programs and campaigns in cooperation with departmental staff.
• Establish effective media relations, coordinate responses to media inquiries; monitor media and emerging issues to gauge trends and identify issues.
• Coordinate communications programs and activities with community groups and all levels of government on behalf of CGS and elected representatives.
• Supervise communications projects from conception to final production, including graphics design, translation, printing and e‑media components, and provide day‑to‑day direction to students, contract employees, volunteers and contractors.
• Provide guidance and advice on delivery of French language services; support client departments in assessing and implementing French Language Services Policy.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with stakeholder groups, including media, government officials, community groups and members of the French speaking community.
• Identify and monitor new trends to ensure CGS’s communications strategies are inclusive, innovative and effective.
• Act as corporate spokesperson for the media when required.
• Participate in the City’s emergency response plan as Emergency Information Officer when required.
• Coordinate CGS’s overall web presence with the Information Technology Section; oversee site content, design and navigation in both English and French.
• Manage outside vendors to ensure production of high‑quality, cost‑effective communication materials.
• Provide training to CGS staff on CGS websites and troubleshoot issues.
• Develop and maintain a working knowledge of CGS’s Safety Manual and applicable provincial legislation.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Qualifications

Education and Training

• College Diploma in communications, public relations or related field.
• Training in website development and new media is considered an asset.
• Professional accreditation (APR, ABC) is an asset.

Experience

• 2½ to 5 years recent experience in the field of communications.

Other Requirements

• Ability to work with minimal supervision, maintain exactness and collaborate effectively.
• Excellent judgment, diplomacy, tact and project‑management skills.
• Strong professional relationship‑building and negotiation skills.
• Demonstrated focus on customer service.
• Adaptable in a fast‑paced environment; exercise initiative and independent judgment; complete multiple assignments under tight deadlines.
• Strong and effective project‑management skills with clear tactical planning and deliverable commitment.
• Knowledge of computer software and administrative systems (word processing, spreadsheets, Adobe Acrobat, graphic design, internet, content management systems).
• Ability to communicate effectively in a highly political and complex environment.
• Ability to link client programs to broad policy objectives of the organization.
• Discretion and confidentiality.
• Excellent interpersonal, research and analytical skills with strong attention to detail.
• Knowledge of community issues and media communication processes.
• Experience as a media spokesperson.
• Knowledge of new media platforms and their functionalities.
• Excellent use of English, verbally and in writing.
• French language skills considered an asset.
• Satisfactory health, attendance and former employment history.
• Physical capability to operate a vehicle safely; valid driver’s licence and acceptable driving record are assets.

Competencies

Competency Library – Level 2 Proficiency (Individual Contributor)

Development Opportunity

This job is also being posted as a development opportunity. Should there be no fully qualified candidate for this position, a candidate who can be expected to meet the required qualifications within a reasonable period may be considered for this position as a development opportunity. Development opportunity pay range: $35.12 to $44.31 per hour. The successful candidate will be paid at the reduced range until the minimum qualifications have been met.

EEO Statement

This position is open to all qualified candidates. The City of Greater Sudbury is committed to creating a fair, inclusive and equitable work environment.