Communications Specialist

The Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy (JSGS) equips professionals to think strategically, work collaboratively, and mobilize change in Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments, non-profits, and co-operatives. Activities include certificate, degree, and professional development programs; research on society’s wicked problems; and community events.

Primary Purpose: The Communications Specialist (Specialist) applies communications expertise to develop, successfully execute, and evaluate communications initiatives designed to increase student enrolment, advance alumni engagement, foster strong donor relationships, and profile the School’s research.

Nature of Work: Reporting to the Executive Officer, the Specialist will work closely with the leadership team, staff, and faculty across both campuses and with staff in relevant central offices at both the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and the University of Regina (U of R). The Specialist will establish and foster relationships with external stakeholders and service providers.

The Specialist will be a highly motivated and creative individual who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced, relationship-based environment. Sound judgment and discretionary decision making is required. The work requires a proactive and strategic approach in a complex environment and the ability to communicate effectively to diverse audiences. Establishing and maintaining positive relationships is essential to success. Flexibility will be required occasionally for work outside of normal operating hours; travel within Saskatchewan is required.

Accountabilities:

• Develop, implement, monitor, and evaluate communications, marketing, and public relations plans to increase awareness of JSGS programs and drive traffic towards recruitment efforts and to share the School’s research and other achievements with stakeholders
• Collaborate with communications offices at USask and the U of R on major announcements and media inquiries related to JSGS
• Lead specific communications projects such as writing, editing, development of publications and print materials, website, social media, and video
• Provide tactical communications support for centres reporting to JSGS
• Provide back-up communications support for the “Governing Sustainable Municipalities” project
• Serve as steward of the visual identity standards for JSGS and its reporting centres
• Manage the marketing budget
• Have awareness of opportunities and challenges in the media and Canadian public policy landscape that impact JSGS
• Seek out communications best practices and apply them where appropriate
• Other duties related to the focus of the position may be assigned

Education: An undergraduate degree in communications, marketing, journalism, public relations, or a related discipline is required.

Experience: Experience in communications in a post-secondary environment or similarly complex organization is required. Experience working and collaborating in a diverse and inclusive environment is required. A minimum of three years of experience is required with demonstrated progression in level of responsibility, including developing and implementing strategic communications plans. Experience and knowledge of the University of Saskatchewan is considered an asset. A combination of education and experience may be considered.

Skills

• Exceptional written and verbal communication and polished presentation skills
• Track record of establishing and fostering positive and mutually beneficial relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Thorough understanding of communications principles and strategies, and proven experience in applying them and achieving results
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and creatively to advance organizational objectives through marketing tools and communications activities
• Demonstrated sound judgment, tact, discretion, professional integrity, and cultural awareness
• Ability to take initiative and leadership and be self-directed
• Strong organizational skills and proven ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
• Proven problem-solving abilities and conflict management skills
• High proficiency in computer applications, such as MS Office, Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, and PhotoShop), website content management software, SharePoint, and Zoom
• Photography skills are an asset.

As part of the application process, in addition to providing a cover letter and resume, candidates are required to submit a brief portfolio of their work, including a sample of written work, designed work, and links to any website work completed.

Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Amber McCuaig (amber.mccuaig@usask.ca).

Department: School of Public Policy
Status: Term One year with the possibility of extension or becoming permanent
Employment Group: ASPA
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $49,301.00 - 77,033.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable): Specialist Professional
Salary Phase/Band: Phase 1
Posted Date: 3/7/2023
Closing Date: 3/20/2023 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: May be eligible for hybrid work under the terms of USask's Alternative Workspace Guidelines

The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where 'Yes' is indicated below. Further information is available at: https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php

Criminal Record Check: Not Applicable
Driver's License and Abstract Check: Not Applicable
Education/Credential Verification: Not Applicable
Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable

Please review the University of Saskatchewan's health and safety requirements for faculty, staff and students in consideration of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.