Communication Specialist

Reporting to the Senior Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, the Communications Specialist develops clear, audience-focused content and supports communications, media relations, events and stakeholder engagements that advance Chicken Farmers of Ontario's (CFO) strategic and operational plans.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIESContent Curation
Uses superior writing skills to produce a variety of communications products to support farmer and stakeholder engagement, including the Annual Performance Report, key messages, web stories, scripts, news releases, briefing notes, presentations, and other written communications
Develops and implements communications strategies to disseminate operational, technical, policy and regulatory-related communication and content, and associated marketing materials, for farmers and stakeholder audiences
Applies plain language and storytelling techniques to communicate complex data and ideas through clear, persuasive writing
Uses knowledge of social media and emerging communication platforms to provide creative and strategic advice for internal and external communications including publications, websites, electronic communication, social media and video production
Develops social media content and digital communications interaction on platforms such as Instagram and ontariochicken.Ca to enhance communication with key audiences, in compliance with social media standards and CFO brand guidelines
Manages and develops website content, including working with CFO subject matter experts to publish regular updates related to the chicken sector and programs areas, such as auditing, pricing, and allocation
Stakeholder Relations and Event Management
Regularly monitors traditional and social media, influencers, government channels, and stakeholder communications for political developments, commentary, risks, and opportunities and shares critical information with the Senior Manager, Corporate Communications & Public Affairs and other colleagues in a timely manner
Uses superior event management skills to support CFO’s events, including logistical coordination, advance preparation of communication materials and onsite support and implementation
Cultivates and maintains strong relationships with CFO leadership, farmers, and stakeholders in the Ontario agriculture and agri-food sector
Implements communications campaigns and events in support of CFO’s social mission, as well as existing and emerging priorities of CFO
Media Relations and Marketing
Responds to media inquiries in a timely and professional manner, coordinating accurate, clear and consistent responses with internal subject-matter experts and leadership
Proactively identifies and pitches compelling stories to media, cultivating relationships with journalists and supporting interview preparation and follow-up
Supports the development and execution of creative, integrated marketing campaigns that align with CFO’s priorities, audiences and brand guidelines
Creates engaging social media content and identifies earned-media opportunities to extend campaign reach, strengthen awareness and support organizational objectives
QUALIFICATIONSEducation and Experience
A degree in the field of communications, journalism, marketing or another relevant field
3 - 5 years of demonstrated experience in communications, journalism, marketing, or another relevant field
Experience managing media relations, stakeholder engagement and issues management
Experience supporting senior leaders with key messages, speeches, presentations and briefing materials
Experience managing external vendors, agencies, or creative service providers
Experience managing multiple projects and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
Experience in a regulatory environment considered an asset
Skills and Knowledge
Technological Skills - MS Office, including PowerPoint skills, Canva, Adobe suite, social media platforms, Survey Monkey, Email distribution systems
Experience with SAP Client Relationship Management System, Salesforce Marketing Cloud, and a variety of content management systems
Must have a valid Ontario Driver’s License and ability to travel to locations not serviced by public transportation
Flexibility to travel for meetings, events, and stakeholder engagements during evenings and weekends
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Solid knowledge of current and emerging digital communication trends and tools
Self-starter, critical thinker, and team player
Bilingualism (English & French) considered an asset
Knowledge of Ontario agri-food industry considered an asset
Working Conditions
This role operates in a hybrid environment consisting of the CFO office and the option to work remotely in accordance with CFO's hybrid environment and may be revised from time to time
This role requires regular travel to stakeholder events and meetings
COMPENSATION AND DISCLOSURELocation:Guelph, ON (Corporate Office) with option for hybrid work
Status:Full Time hours, permanent
Salary Range:$75,000 - 90,000 per year
Disclosure:CFO does not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants for this position.
CFO's Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:At CFO, we are committed to diversity and inclusion, reflecting our industry and the communities where we live and work. We work together, unified by our respect for each other, CFO values, and the pursuit of our business strategy. Diversity at CFO is understanding, recognizing, and valuing the differences that make each person unique.
Our Hiring Commitment:In compliance with Ontario's Working for Workers Four Act, CFO is committed to transparency. All candidates who participate in an interview for this position will be notified of the hiring decision within 45 days of their final interview.
#J-18808-Ljbffr