Description

Reporting to the Director, Growth and Innovation, the Manager, Corporate Communications is responsible for establishing the strategic direction for corporate communications and marketing initiatives and expanding and enhancing the overall internal/external communications of the Corporation.

Responsible for the development and implementation of strategic community engagement initiatives, communication policies, programs and procedures, as well as leading activities and development of communications planning, media inquiries and public relations, corporate websites and social media engagement, corporate advertising, branding and marketing, internal communications, public consultation and civic engagement and emergency communications.

The Manager, Corporate Communications must demonstrate strong political acumen in the monitoring of emerging trends and issues and in the delivery of all services, including sensitive and critical communications such as issues management, emergency management and crisis communications. The Manager, Corporate Communications will champion communication strategies that reflect diverse perspectives, foster belonging across all audiences, and uphold the towns commitment to equity and accessibility. As one of the spokespersons for the organization, the Manager will respond to media inquiries and plan complex public relations responses. The Manager will provide guidance to senior leadership team members, directors and staff.

Provides leadership and direction in the development and implementation of corporate communications and community engagement strategies, which includes community relations, social media and online communications, issues management, public relations, and marketing communications.
Facilitates community engagement efforts, including the coordination of town hall meetings, community forums, and other related activities.
Implement communication strategies that promote and protect the reputation and image of the Municipality, Council, and administration in alignment with the municipal strategic plan and corporate objectives.
Provides functional and technical expertise, advice, and input to Senior Management Team, staff and Town departments regarding marketing, communications, and intergovernmental related matters.
Maintains effective media contacts and reviews outgoing information for accuracy and consistency of messaging, as well as proactive positioning of the municipality in the media.
Identifies and assesses sensitive and emerging issues in the community via media channels, often of a confidential nature, and provides timely and effective communications advice to develop a media strategy in response.
Approve, edit, design and issue public and media communications including print and digital materials, brochures, flyers, presentations and reports, posters, signs, advertising, website content, social media postings, and any other print or non-print materials intended for public or media consumption.
Participates as a member of the Emergency Control Group (ECG); and acts as the Public Information Officer during and after disasters, which involves providing strategic communication advice to the ECG while ensuring compliance with provincial and municipal legislation and regulations, and Town policies and procedures.
Troubleshoots, responds to, and/or resolves difficult or politically sensitive inquiries, issues, or complaints regarding marketing, communications and/or intergovernmental projects, initiatives, and/or programs, and informs and/or escalates to the CAO, when required.
Acts as a Town representative with the media, affiliated governments, community groups, agencies, organizations, and associations as it relates to marketing, communications, and/or intergovernmental projects, initiatives, and/or programs.
Acts as a Town representative with the media, affiliated governments, community groups, agencies, organizations, and associations as it relates to marketing, communications, and/or intergovernmental projects, initiatives, and/or programs.
Develops annual work plans, priorities, and goals for the Communications Branch.
Prepare and recommend annual operating and capital budgets for the Branch and projects.
Design and execute innovative strategies for effective messaging and storytelling to engage stakeholders.
Stays informed about current communication tools and technologies, including exploring new platforms or software that may improve the town's communication processes.
Incorporates diversity and inclusion in communication strategies, creating initiatives that make communications inclusive and reflective of the wider community.
Manages and/or oversees the coordination of work activities within the Branch.
Oversees the supervision of Branch staff, which involves succession planning, training and development, employee and labour relations matters.
Instructs and monitors to ensure that employees work in a safe manner, utilize all required health and safety equipment and personal protective equipment, and follow all measures and practices in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Implement and monitor social media engagement procedures.
Approve and edit all social media postings and campaigns.
Manage and monitor all corporate social media accounts.
Consult with and provide advice to Senior Management Team, directors, managers and CAO related to online services.
Manages the Town’s reputation and building trust and confidence in the corporate brand.
Lead liaison with website development as content expert.
Monitor compliance with corporate policies governing website standards, visual identity, and appropriate standards of conduct.
Implement and monitor corporate advertising and branding procedures.
Edit and approve advertisements and marketing materials in conjunction with Directors, Managers and CAO.
Monitor compliance with corporate communication and visual identity guide standards.
Formulate and execute a comprehensive townwide branding strategy designed to effectively position the town for growth, tourism, and economic development

Requirements

Formal education in communications, marketing, journalism, public relations, or other related areas of study preferred. Equivalent experience in a similar role will be considered.
Minimum 5-7 years of relevant and progressive experience in the management of corporate communications, public relations and marketing or a combination of thereof.
At least 3 years of supervisory/management experience.
Experience working in the public sector is an asset.
Experience developing and implementing effective internal/external communication plans and providing ongoing strategic communication advice and support.
Demonstrated leadership and issues management skills.
Strong strategic communication skills and knowledge of political environments and internal/external communications/marketing requirements.
Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of staff, Council, the public and the media.
Strong demonstration of AODA standards.
Strong understanding of inclusivity, diversity and accessibility.
Requires demonstrated successful experience in all areas of communications, public and media relations.
Requires a sound understanding of the business of municipal government, including the municipal relationship with upper tier municipalities, the province and the federal government.
Must be experienced in speech writing with a background in politics, public policy or corporate communications.
Demonstrates excellent judgment and initiative with a proven track record in executing successful public information campaigns.
Strong communication skills and knowledge of political environments and internal/external communications/marketing requirements
Proven ability to apply a high degree of mature judgment, initiative and discretion in dealing with matters of a highly sensitive and confidential nature with an ability to maintain composure in stressful situations.
Ability to effectively respond decisively and quickly under pressure with constantly changing priorities and deadlines.
Requires a valid Class G driver’s license in good standing.
Knowledge of the local area and community leaders is an asset.