Communications Specialist, University Relations at University of Saskatchewan

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

14 Jul, 26

Salary

107868.0

Posted On

15 Apr, 26

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Strategic communications, Marketing strategy, Research communications, Media relations, Event planning, Social media management, Website development, Copywriting, Copy editing, Stakeholder engagement, Issues management, Project management, Data analysis, Public relations, Content creation, Interpersonal skills

Industry

Higher Education

Description

Communications Specialist, University Relations Summary: The communications specialist provides leadership in the development and implementation of innovative, effective, and reliable communication and marketing strategies to advance the reputation, priorities, and goals of the College of Agriculture and Bioresources (AgBio) at the University of Saskatchewan. The communications specialist works within the college to develop and implement communications and marketing strategies, initiatives and goals, with a focus on research communications. The incumbent works directly with and takes direction from the AgBio leadership team (Dean’s Office). This position also works collaboratively with internal colleagues, which includes faculty, research communications, and other University Relations units including: marketing, development, alumni relations and external engagement, to achieve communications goals and outcomes institutionally and within the college. The role is part of a larger team of embedded college communicators across the university. Nature of Work: The communications specialist is part of the AgBio communications team and contributes to all aspects of the college’s strategic communications. The role includes research communications, external and internal college communications, communications strategy development and planning, media relations, event planning, community outreach, social media management, and website development and maintenance. The work requires creativity, issues management, strong initiative and follow-through. The individual in this position must exercise considerable judgment, discretionary decision-making in a complex environment; and an ability to build professional relationships with senior administrators, employees, students and external stakeholders. The work requires meticulous attention to detail, work quality and multiple priorities. The communications specialist must understand the college’s critical provincial focus and the important role of communications in building relationships with a range of stakeholders on campus, provincially and across Canada. Consequence of error is significant to the reputation and profile of the college and the university. The work environment is fast-paced and rapidly changing. The employee is based in the college and must be comfortable attending field events, and participating in outreach and engagement activities that take place throughout the year, including Ag in Motion in July. Duties and Responsibilities: Develops, implements and delivers effective and reliable communication strategies and plans, both annual and long-term, that enhance the reputation, research profile, impact and visual identity of the college Provides strategic advice, guidance and innovative solutions which support the reputation, research needs, promotion, branding, priorities and initiatives of the college Works with the college to identify areas of specific focus in which to provide communications support and development. Supports community engagement activities; works to ensure programs are well-managed and effectively represent the college and university; Encourages appropriate engagement of internal stakeholders during the planning and implementation of communications strategies Maintains awareness of college initiatives and activities and professionally represents the college and university with all relevant internal and external stakeholders Provides profile and organization of college-related events when required, including but not limited to public lectures, annual awards and donor recognition dinner, media events and other public-engagement activities; Crafts compelling content that reflects the work of the college as well as communications to alumni (Agknowledge Magazine), external partners, faculty, staff, and students Utilizes various platforms and channels, including but not limited to social media, written copy, website content management, photography, video and more, to advance the communications goals of the college Follows guidelines and promotes consistent messaging and branding across all channels Adheres to budgetary requirements of communication initiatives and supports the effective use of resources, in collaboration with the college Participates in team meetings, planning, and other activities that contribute to achieving university-wide goals in communications Designs communications that are accessible and suitable for diverse audiences and diverse mediums Develops, builds and maintains key relationships with internal stakeholders from various colleges and units across campus that work closely with AgBio Communicates and acts in a respectful and professional manner, collaborates effectively, abides by policy, and contributes to a positive and productive work and learning environment Engages in continuous learning by participating in activities, training, and events related to Indigenous engagement, reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion Maintains a commitment to professional participation and development Demonstrates respect and dignity for all members of the community, actively contributes to an environment of acceptance and inclusion of others, and responds to different perspectives from a place of curiosity, respect, and non-judgement Occasionally, work outside normal business hours will be required. The incumbent works in a team environment where coverage and collaboration are required The position contributes to outreach and engagement activities, including agriculture-related events such as Ag in Motion and the Livestock Forage Centre of Excellence Field Day, as examples Undertakes related duties, as assigned, consistent with the nature of the position. Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing or a related field; a graduate degree is an asset Minimum five years’ experience in communications or marketing with progression in level of responsibility, including a breadth of experience developing and implementing all areas of strategic communications plans, preferably in a post-secondary or similar setting Advanced knowledge of communication principles Strong writing skills to effectively communicate to diverse audiences across multiple platforms. Demonstrated ability to synthesize complex information into lay language. Copy editing, fact checking, and verbal communication skills are critical to this role Previous experience and knowledge of the agriculture and/or environmental science sectors and needs are assets. Demonstrated client service orientation Strong problem solving, strategic, and creative thinking skills Demonstrated ability to work independently and meet deadlines on multiple projects with competing demands. Sound judgment and discretionary decision-making skills Knowledge, understanding and/or openness to learn about issues (including cultural, socio-economic and other factors) affecting Indigenous peoples Ability to identify opportunities and analyze data to inform decisions Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively within a diverse environment and build relationships with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders Experience and knowledge of university communications support, processes, and technology is an asset. Excellent interpersonal skills Ability to use and leverage technology effectively Department: College of Agriculture & Bioresources Status: Permanent Employment Group: ASPA Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0 Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $69,035.00 - 107,868.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience. Salary Family (if applicable): Specialist Professional Salary Phase/Band: Phase 2 Posted Date: 4/15/2026 Closing Date: 4/28/2026 at 6:00 pm CST Number of Openings: 1 Work Location: On Campus The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us for assistance.

Responsibilities

The communications specialist develops and implements strategic marketing and communication plans to advance the reputation and research profile of the College of Agriculture and Bioresources. The role involves managing media relations, event planning, social media, and building relationships with internal and external stakeholders.