POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Director of Communications, Government Relations and Strategic Planning, the Communications Officer supports the municipality’s communication efforts by assisting in the development, coordination, and execution of internal and external communication strategies. This role focuses on content creation, public engagement, and ensuring consistent application of the municipality’s brand standards. The CommunicationsOfficer plays a key role in maintaining communication channels, supporting media relations, and assisting with the delivery of programs and initiatives that enhance transparency and community engagement.

EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS:

• Diploma in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in communications, public relations, or a related role preferably within a municipal or public sector environment.
  Equivalent combination of education and experience may be acceptable.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to produce clear and engaging content for diverse audiences.
• Digital Proficiency: Strong knowledge of digital communication tools, social media platforms, and content management systems, with the ability to track analytics and optimize outreach.
• Public Engagement: Proven experience in coordinating public engagement initiatives and collecting feedback to support municipal projects and policies.
• Media Relations: Knowledge of media relations practices, including crafting press materials, preparing spokespeople, and effectively managing inquiries to ensure consistent and professional communication.
• Graphic Design: Proficiency in graphic design to enable the creation of visually compelling and effective communication materials that enhance the organization’s outreach and engagement efforts.
• Organization: Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
• Collaboration: Ability to build relationships and collaborate with internal teams, external partners, and the community.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze feedback and communication trends to propose innovative and practical solutions.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in the development, coordination, and execution of internal and external communication plans to support the municipality’s strategic goals and priorities.
• Provide communications and administrative support by preparing and delivering news releases, presentations, reports, and other correspondence.
• Create, edit, and publish engaging content across various platforms, including social media and the municipal website, to highlight the municipality’s news, events, strategic initiatives, programs, and services, ensuring clarity and accessibility.
• Drafting and distributing press releases, responding to inquiries, and working closely on advertising campaigns to promote municipal initiatives and events. Support public engagement activities, including identifying opportunities to attend and document events, photographing activities, and creating communications to showcase these initiatives.
• Provide graphic design and marketing support to maintain a cohesive visual identity for the municipality across digital, print, and social media channels.
• Research and recommend new communication strategies, tools, and emerging trends in digital and social media to enhance outreach and engagement.
• Monitor and evaluate media coverage to assess the effectiveness of communication efforts and provide actionable insights for continuous improvement.

IF SELECTED FOR THIS ROLE, YOU WILL NEED TO PROVIDE:

• Successful reference check (two work-related references, with a minimum of one being a direct supervisor)
• Satisfactory Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check
• Proof of Certifications