Communications Specialist

Opportunity

MacEwan University is seeking a detail-oriented Communications Specialist for a full-time continuing opportunity within Academic Affairs.

Reporting to the Senior Manager, you will prepare communications in support of the Office of the Provost and Vice-President, Academic, that demonstrates the full range of scholarship and diverse perspectives across Academic Affairs.

As the Communications Specialist, you will be a passionate and persuasive communicator who is a fundamental component of the voice of the Provost and Vice-President, Academic, and of Academic Affairs.

You will be responsible for developing communications strategies and compelling written content in alignment with the strategic objectives and priorities of the Office and University, performing ongoing environmental scans to obtain information, insight and content to inform communications materials, developing and preparing the Provost's monthly internal newsletter for circulation, staying current with events, gathering facts and verifying information through research and interviews and coordinating communications with colleagues across Academic Affairs.

Key responsibilities include :

• Developing, implementing, and evaluating communication strategies, while ensuring alignment with the broader institution's standards, policies, practices, and strategy;
• Drafting and editing compelling written content by gathering facts and verifying information through research and interviews, including engaging with internal subject matter experts on an ongoing basis to inform work;
• Developing and distributing compelling, engaging, and informative written communications and narratives that demonstrate the breadth of different perspectives in the University and share or amplify a full range of impactful stories from across Academic Affairs;
• Developing and preparing the Provost's monthly newsletter for distribution, which includes writing articles, determining which and in what manner to feature information, ensuring consistency of voice, reviewing, editing and consolidating final copy into a cohesive document while ensuring that a breadth of perspectives are reflected;
• Developing and maintaining annual communications planning;
• Providing communications support and expertise within Academic Affairs, including writing, and editing content for internal and external audiences and coordinating communications in consultation with colleagues;
• Assisting faculty with disseminating research works and coordinating with academic departments for other podcast and knowledge mobilization needs;
• Researching and remaining current on industry best practices and trends; and
• Working with the Senior Manager, the Provost, and other Academic Affairs leaders to advise on potential communications approaches and draft responses to emerging or existing issues within Academic Affairs.

Skills

You will have :

• Communications planning knowledge and skills, with the ability to tailor messaging and translate complex information into compelling and engaging stories that resonate with a diverse audience;
• Excellent grammar, writing, and editing skills, with proficiency in style guides and writing best practices;
• Strong reporting skills, including oral and written communication;
• Strong active listening and elicitation skills;
• Strategic thinking, creativity, analytical, and problem-solving skills;
• Excellent planning, organizational, and time management skills, with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and manage multiple deadlines, while maintaining a high level of accuracy;
• The ability to conduct independent research, compile reports, and interpret data;
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment;
• The ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion and tact; and
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, SharePoint, and Teams.

Qualifications

• A minimum of a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related discipline.
• Experience in communications planning and writing communication materials.
• Experience designing content for digital platforms, including Microsoft Sway, is considered an asset.
• Experience working in a post-secondary environment is considered an asset.
• Membership with the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) is considered an asset.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Benefits

When you become part of the MacEwan University team, you will enjoy a competitive salary. Our total compensation package includes :

• Competitive base pay
• Generous vacation time
• Secure pension plan
• Flexible benefits package
• Continuous learning culture
• Opportunities for career growth
30+ days ago