Senior Communications Advisor

The OrganizationWith state-of-the-art operations across western Canada, our client Tolko Industries is a leading manufacturer of a wide range of forest products for customers around the world.

For over 65 years, their family-owned company has been recognized by customers and business partners for being reliable, flexible, efficient and offering quality products.

With the third generation of family leadership, they're continuing that legacy today in their divisions throughout western Canada and joint ventures in the Southern United States.

At Tolko, their values, vision and mission aren’t just what they believe. It's how they work, live and serve their customers every day.

Fundamental to their success is a diverse and committed workforce that thrives on change, building relationships, and a drive toward excellence.

The OpportunityAs a member of Tolko’s communication team, the Senior Communications Advisor works in support of Tolko’s operating and functional units to enable the company’s strategic business objectives.

Reporting to the Director, Communications, this role promotes Tolko’s value of Open Communication by enabling timely and effective engagement across Tolko’s workforce and various external stakeholder groups.

This includes employees at all levels of the organization from the Executive to the front line. The Senior Advisor position has a high degree of confidentiality and is a flexible position that supports planned day-to-day activities as well as emergency and business critical tasks as required.

This position will be based out of Tolko's office in Vernon, BC. Relocation assistance will be provided for the successful candidate.

ResponsibilitiesProvide strategic counsel and communications support to Tolko leaders and team members Develop strategies and implement tactics to advance Tolko’s business objectivesLead strategic communications support of Tolko’s operating divisions prioritizing frontline workforce engagementEnsure appropriate communications support services are aligned with Corporate strategies and established to meet their needsClosely collaborate with operating and service groups to ensure alignment on approaches, messaging and the use of standardized tools and processes across the businessUnderstand, appropriately engage and be an ambassador for the services model, our brand, and communications processes on behalf of the communications teamPartner with operational leaders on the development of externally focused, community engagement plans to bolster Tolko’s visibility across operating regions.

This includes support of community-facing events.Support emergency response team as needed to take appropriate action on emerging trends, concerns or issues affecting Tolko.

Prepares briefs for senior management as required.Contribute to the development of issues management strategies, approaches and processes to identify and mitigate risks Support media relations activities and act as media spokesperson as requiredFollow trends and developments in public affairs to provide insight and recommendations for progressive approaches and practicesOperate in a safe manner in accordance to work safe rules, regulations, and policiesTravel to operations sites is a requirement anticipate a minimum of once per quarterQualificationsUniversity degree or related post-secondary diploma / certificate in Communications or Public Relations5-10 years of progressive experience in communications, preferably as a business partner within a Corporate settingExperience as a trusted and essential communication consultant to internal or external client groupsSuperior communications skills, including strategic planning, research, writing (print and web), editing and measurementStrong conflict management and analytical skillsProactive approach, highlighting opportunities for continuous improvementSuperior time management and organizational skills with proven ability to meet deadlinesGreat teammate who knows how to engage diverse interests and build internal and external coalitionsExperience helping clients manage communication issues and reputational challengesMedia relations training / experience in media responseDemonstrated ability to carry unstructured projects to completion within a dynamic environment working collaboratively with different types of people at many organizational levelsAble to successfully manage multiple projects to tight deadlines, both independently and with a teamAble to act as a project leader and to coach other team members where no formal reporting relationship existsProficient with all Microsoft Office applications familiarity with Microsoft SharePoint and photo editing / management software is an asset, as is general ability to quickly adopt skills to use various software applications.

A background or familiarity with change management is an asset.Experience in the forestry industry is an asset.Vernon, British ColumbiaSurrounded by three beautiful lakes, rolling hills and scenic vistas, the community of Vernon is the largest city in the North Okanagan Valley with a growing population of 40,000 people.

Known for promoting a work-life balance lifestyle with a four-season playground, locals take advantage of the world-renowned golf courses, Agri-tourism, hiking and biking trails, Silver Star Mountain Ski Resort, and Sparkling Hill Resort, an unforgettable 40,000 sq.

ft state of the art wellness facility with 3.5 million Swarovski crystals.With an increase in young families moving to Vernon, the area remains a great place to visit and stay long-term.

The community is a short-drive to the international airport, offers more than 100 lakes within a one-hour drive, family-friendly festivals and attractions are featured throughout the year, including a 10-day winter carnival that’s been running more than 60 years.