Communications and Engagement Advisor

at  The Corporation of The City of Victoria

Job Description:

KEY SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Organize and prioritize work.
Understand and apply the techniques of civic engagement, communications planning and coordination, and project management.
Provide technical guidance and advice to user departments.
Research and compose civic engagement strategies and communications materials.
Working level operation of City word processing, spreadsheet and communications specialty software.
Compose and present proposals and policies.
Facilitate public consultation meetings and workshops.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Represent the City to the public and outside agencies.

FORMAL EDUCATION, TRAINING AND OCCUPATIONAL CERTIFICATION:

Degree in Business, Communications or related field. (4 years)
Accredited courses in stakeholder relations and public participation. (2 days)
5 years related experience including experience in change management in a municipal setting.
Or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Develop and work with City departments to implement communications and engagement strategies to effectively involve the public in civic matters; integrate communication strategies and plans across specific projects and internal or external stakeholder groups. Ensure Project Charter for implementation of the civic engagement strategy is effectively delivered; oversee the implementation of engagement programs and develop and refine related policies. Develop and provide relevant training to program staff.
Coordinate and monitor corporate-wide engagement efforts and track participation. Define success metrics for communication activities such as number of attendees at engagement events; evaluate and report on the effectiveness of these activities through regular communications with stakeholders. Prepare reports and present recommendations to Council and other decision-making bodies.
Prepare annual report on public participation activities, progress, challenges and make recommendations for improvement. Identify and coordinate engagement efforts to ensure large scale and priority projects are effectively planned and resourced.
Identify opportunities to continuously improve and advance the external website and strategic use of multi-media tools to meet information and engagement objectives. Oversee community stakeholder database. Respond and coordinate response to media enquiries; including preparation of media releases and supporting materials to raise awareness of the City’s programs and services; plan media events. Prepare briefing notes for Mayor and Council and senior management.
Lead internal and external stakeholder meetings on various corporate initiatives as required. Participate in various corporate committees as required.
Perform related duties where qualified.