Communications Officer

Job Summary

Reporting to the Senior Director, Agency & External Communications, the Communications Officer is responsible for providing advice and communication services for agencies and/or departments within the PHSA. The Communications Officer develops and supports implementation of a comprehensive communication strategy for an Agency or department. He or she will provide expertise and guidance to peers in writing, editing and producing consistent and quality communications materials for the Agency. The Communications Officer plans strategy and develops a coordinated action plan to ensure communications are high quality, consistent and facilitate change while maintaining relationships among both internal and external stakeholders.

Duties/Accountabilities:

• Liaises with media, representatives from other Health Authorities, the Ministry of Health, provincial and federal agencies, healthcare companies, research institutions and universities, members of the community including patients, affiliated professional organizations and affiliated groups, and the general public to respond to requests for information, as well as to collaborate on joint initiatives and events.
• Writes, edits and produces diverse communications such as social and on-line media, internal briefs, newsletters, brochures, displays, speeches and presentations. Must ensure overall quality, consistency and effectiveness of complex communication materials.
• Co-ordinates the production and distribution of internal and external products such as intranet, website, annual reports and educational materials. Determines content in conjunction with Program Leads and Manager and/or Senior Director. Researches, writes articles, and works with others such as designers, photographers and printers.
• Provides advice and guidance to team members in all aspects of written work to ensure quality messages and materials. Contributes to the development and content management of the Agency’s web site/intranet.
• Liaises with stakeholders, both internal and external, to develop a broad understanding of important issues, challenges and strategic directions being undertaken and to foster open dialogue between key stakeholders and communicates messages clearly and concisely to promote awareness of initiatives and contribute to a positive reputation for the Council

Qualifications

A level of education, training and experience equivalent to an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline such as a Degree in Journalism, Public Relations or Communications, combined with at least five years of experience in a communications role. Excellent interpersonal and communications skills (verbal and written); solid journalistic business writing and the creation of compelling publications; skill and proficiency in organizational electronic communication technology, desktop publishing and web-based technology practices would be beneficial. The ability to handle highly confidential and sensitive issues with skill, tact and diplomacy is important as is excellent decision making skills; ability to work independently and as part of a team; flexibility to reprioritize quickly to meet changing priorities. Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite of products, Adobe Acrobat, database and web-based programs.