Manager, Communications (Real Estate, Ancillary Operations and Partnerships)

Job Summary :

The Manager, Communications will be responsible for playing a leadership role in developing and leading a comprehensive and proactive strategic communications plan, customized to best serve the department goals, and inclusive of priorities related to internal and external communications, events, marketing and branding, storytelling and engagement in a variety of traditional and digital forms including department website, newsletters and special projects.

The role will work directly with subject matter experts within the REAP portfolio helping to communicate services and key messages for faculty, staff and students and other key stakeholders on various initiatives.

With a comprehensive and strategic approach to communication, the Manager will review and update the portfolios website, our social media presence, and be actively engaged in developing and advancing issues of both strategic and operational importance.

The Manager will report into the Chief Executive, Internal and External Engagement, and work closely with the Associate Vice President, Real Estate, Ancillary Operations and Partnerships.

Developing a strong working relationship with these leaders is an important component of the role. The incumbent will work in collaboration with leaders across the CMPA team (e.

g. marketing, branding, communications), as well as with leaders within the REAP portfolio and leaders and employees across the University.

The ideal candidate is a strategic and creative thinker with sound judgement, decision-making and project management skills, and is highly-regarded for their exceptional service, interpersonal, research and writing skills.

You have a demonstrated integrative and inclusive approach to your work, and will be effective working in partnership with the REAP and CMPA teams and other support areas of the University in order to achieve key goals.

Accountabilities :

This position provides a leadership role in the development, implementation and management of the REAP communications programs and initiatives and acts as a liaison and connector with other University communications staff.

Works as an integral team member with the office of the AVP, Real Estate, Ancillary Operations and Partnerships, in developing communication strategies to enhance and support priorities under that portfolio.

Responsible for the development of a strategic communications plan for the department that will include the programs to facilitate increased understanding of McMaster and the AVP, Real Estate, Ancillary Operations and Partnerships, goals, objectives, and successes by increasing profile in key internal and external audiences.

Develops and manages a comprehensive and proactive communications program with an emphasis on storytelling and reputation development.

Finds creative ways that help showcase the department’s strategy and brand.

Be an active member of the communications network across the University.

In partnership with CMPA, this role is responsible for relationship development with the University’s key audiences and partners such as faculty, staff, students, media, alumni, supporters, government and the community.

Oversee digital communications, website development and content, social media and emerging digital opportunities.

Manages and prepares a variety of internal communications including generation of story ideas, promoting employees’ success and accomplishments, media, marketing and other key targets.

Provides leadership in the implementation of the University’s branding and marketing strategy within the department and works collaboratively to support the team’s marketing related objectives.

Acts as a university spokesperson, as required.

Creates, implements and evaluates the effectiveness of all related projects.

Identifies and develops proactive opportunities for senior leaders to maximize effective communication.

Qualifications : Education :

Education :

University degree in Communications or a related field.

A McMaster degree is an asset.

A Master’s degree, or specialist certification is an asset.

Experience :

4-5 years progressive experience in communications, public relations, or a similar position; experience in a complex post-secondary or public sector environment considered an asset.

Experience in social media and digital communications is required.

Ability to be a leader within a highly decentralized environment.

Demonstrated time management skills with ability to quickly set priorities and manage multiple projects in a timely and effective manner.

Demonstrated leadership, negotiating, and influencing skills.

Demonstrated experience in crisis and issue management.

Proven ability to be analytical and intuitive with organizational problem solving.

Sound judgment and demonstrated success in strategic planning, relationship management, and project management are essential.

What McMaster offers :

McMaster University has a market-driven total rewards package including a comprehensive benefits plan, including expanded mental health benefit entitlement, health spending account, retirement savings plans, vacation, professional development fund and tuition assistance.

Our total rewards package attracts, develops and retains our outstanding workforce.

Starting salary for this position is between the range of $87,276 to $100,000 (annual)

As a member of The Management Group (TMG), the successful candidate will be provided with a highly competitive Total Rewards Program which includes :

Hybrid work arrangements and flexible working hours to promote employee wellbeing.

Industry-leading paid time off (vacation, personal management days, and holiday closure).

Generous salary range with annual performance-based merit review.

Comprehensive benefits package (physical health, mental health, dental, vision and healthcare spending account) and group retirement plans.

Top-up for pregnancy and parental leaves.

Annual professional development allowance as well as Tuition Assistance Program.