Press Secretary

Position : Press SecretaryOrganization : Green Party of Ontario (www.Gpo.Ca)Location : Toronto officeType : Permanent, Full TimeStart Date : As soon as possibleSalary : $65,000-70,000 / year (negotiable based on experience)Description : As the GPO Press Secretary your primary role will be to work closely with the Director of Communications to write and distribute press releases, respond to questions from reporters, pitch news ideas and monitor media coverage. You will also write speeches, statements, and copy for other strategic communications to support development and fundraising. You will need to maintain relationships with media individuals and organizations, travel with the Leader or spokespeople representing GPO at public events and produce content for various media. While the legislature is sitting, the Press Secretary will be based at Queen’s Park. Travel within Ontario is necessary from time to time. Hours of work will include evenings and weekends. Flexibility is required.DeliverablesWork with MediaProduce clear and concise news releases and advisories on a timely basisFind opportunities and execute plans that will expand GPO’s reach in the mediaDistribute written materials via email and make follow-up callsRespond to media inquiries in a timely mannerPlan press conferences Maintain relationships with media individuals and organizationsOrganize advance media for GPO events and tours with local and provincial mediaSupport the Leader and GPO CommunicationsContribute to team strategic planning and execution Ensure cohesive message is delivered across platforms and communications objectives are metParticipate in regular team meetingsAccompany the Leader or spokespeople representing GPO to events from time to time as requiredAssist with drafting speeches and lettersMaterials Production and AdvertisingSupport content development in other areas such as copy-writing for action campaigns, speeches, statements and social media from time to time.Qualifications2+ years experience in a communications, public relations, media relations, or preferably press secretary roleBachelor's degree or college diploma in journalism, public relations, politics, or related field, or equivalent experienceExceptional writing and interpersonal communication skills with strong command of copy editing and proofreadingProven experience writing press releases, statements, op-eds and speechesKnowledge of and experience working with Ontario media, good media relations and established media contacts an assetSuperior time management and organizational skills and ability to meet tight deadlinesAn analytical mind and ability to think critically with strong political acuityAbility to work both independently and as part of a teamStrong computer skills with Google docs and Microsoft OfficeKnowledge of email marketing software, Creative Suite, Canva and social media platform software programs an assetGraphic design skills an assetExperience using multi-social posting programs such as Sprout Social an assetProven knowledge of communications and marketing ethics and best practicesExperience with political election campaigns an asset Must reside in the GTATo Apply : This is a rolling application. Send your resumé and cover letter as one file to hiring@gpo.ca. Please no phone calls or visits.The GPO is an equal opportunity employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture and background and encourage all to apply. Accommodation will be provided during the hiring process and in the position as needed.