Communications Manager

Primary Purpose:To provide leadership in the development and implementation of innovative, effective, and reliable communication strategies to advance the reputation, priorities and goals of the College of Medicine in alignment with the university’s integrated plan and priorities.

Nature of Work: Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer in the College of Medicine the communications specialist will work closely with college leadership (including the dean, vice deans, department heads, clinical provincial heads and advancement specialists) to ensure strategic messaging and college initiatives are met. The position involves considerable judgement and discretionary decision-making in the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of multiple communications and advancement plans.  The position will be working with sensitive and confidential information on a regular basis, which may have impacts to institutional, academic and/or operational strategies and outcomes.  The individual will need to use discretion and confidentiality in the handling of this information and in developing communication related to the issues.

The individual will garner an in-depth understanding of the academic, research and service portfolios across the college and its diverse array of provincial and national stakeholders. The incumbent will work both independently and collaboratively with other members in the college and across the university, Saskatchewan Health Authority, alumni, donors, government, community partners and national organizations to meet strategic goals. Establishing and maintaining positive relationships is essential. The environment is dynamic and fast-paced. The position requires occasional work in evenings and on weekends.

Accountabilities:

• Prepare and implement annual and long and short-term internal and external communications strategies to support and advance the strategic directions of the College of Medicine as well as raising the profile and advancing the reputation provincially, nationally, and internationally.
• Conceptualize, seek out and develop engaging, newsworthy stories that support the university’s brand platform and strategic plan, which may include feature articles, short stories, speaking notes, news briefs, reports, media releases, photos, and other types of content about a broad range of topics across the mission of the college.
• Provide strategic communication advice and expertise to members of the college including counsel on sensitive issues, speaking notes, briefing documents, media relations/preparation and other facets as required.
• Oversee the college websites and social media channels. Ensure brand stewardship and visual identity consistency with university standards. Work in partnership on shared branding elements the college utilizes with its clinical and community partners across the province.
• Ensure communications messaging is consistent for the portfolio and university.
• Participate in university and college advancement and communications meetings, team planning and other activities that contribute to achieving college and university-wide goals in communications.
• Supervise a small staff who are responsible for college communications, website and events. Manage budgetary requirements of communication initiatives and ensure effective use of resources. Support and mentor a group of communications staff who are members of clinical departments across the college to ensure province-wide consistency and to foster career engagement and progression.
• Support college media relations in partnership with stakeholder organizations, in particular, the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
• Other projects as assigned.

Education: An undergraduate degree, preferably a degree in communications, journalism or marketing is preferred. A combination of education and experience may be considered.

Experience: Five years of directly related experience with a demonstrated progression in level of responsibility. An understanding of alumni relations, donor relations, marketing and some experience in photography and experience with Adobe InDesign would be considered an asset. Knowledge of and/or experience in university settings, healthcare systems, and provincial health education would be considered highly desired assets.

Skills: A thorough understanding of communication strategies and principles and proven experience in applying them and achieving results in a complex environment; ability to work independently and collaboratively; demonstrated leadership and consensus building skills; proven ability to develop written content for a variety of communication vehicles; highly organized with polished presentation and interpersonal skills; demonstrated exceptional writing skills; strong problem solving and creative thinking skills; high level of proficiency in computer applications, web communication and emerging information technologies; photography skills are desired; manage multiple and competing tasks and projects; demonstrated ability to exercise diplomacy, confidentiality, judgement and tact.

Department: College of Medicine – DnOffce

Status: Permanent

Employment Group: ASPA
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0

Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $66,030.00 – 103,174.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Salary Family (if applicable): Managerial

Salary Phase/Band: Phase 2

Posted Date: 3/8/2024

Closing Date: 3/21/2024 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus