The Communications Unit is central to the establishment and maintenance of strategic communications initiatives including brand identity, to support and enhance the goals of the organization over the long term.

Reporting directly to the Public Relations Strategist, and working closely with all members of the Communications Unit, the External Relations Officer is responsible for providing support related to public relations, media relations, community engagement, and issue management.

This position is covered by the Terms and Conditions of the OPSEU Unit 677 Collective Agreement (Unit 2). A copy is available on the NOSM University website.

Responsibilities

Tasks may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Supports the Public Affairs Strategist in executing external relations communication plans and programs.
• Conducts research and analysis of information gathered from environmental scanning, paying particular attention to emerging issues.
• Formulates and prepares reports, briefs, outreach products and other material.
• Assists with drafting and submission of grant proposals to Government agencies.
• Assists with fundraising proposals that align with key pillars of NOSM University’s strategic plan.
• Supports Health Human Resource planning in establishing strategy to generate visibility and strengthen partnerships.
• Assists in identifying National opportunities to increase NOSM University’s reputation as Canada’s first stand-alone medical university.
• Assists in preparing advocacy and community engagement plans as NOSM University becomes a crucible for solutions focused conversations that transform the Northern Ontario health-care system.
• Working with the Communications team, coordinates the production of communications and marketing materials.
• Plans, produces and/or coordinates production of external publications via a range of print and online channels.
• Plans and helps execute corporate and media events.
• Writes, proofreads and edits communication materials.
• Builds and maintains positive relationships with stakeholder groups, including members of the media, suppliers, and partners. Liaises with key internal units with timely guidance on appropriate message, channels, timing and distribution of information.
• Identifies and monitors new trends to ensure communication vehicles deliver information that is inclusive, consistent, innovative, and effective to specific audiences.
• Acts as a role-model of the organization’s values in daily work activities.
• Assists the Public Affairs Strategist in delivering media training for NOSM University leadership, faculty and staff.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• A University degree from a recognized university that meets Canadian accreditation standards in related field (e.g. communications, journalism, etc.), or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required
• IABC or CPRS accreditation highly desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Minimum of three (3) years directly related experience is required.
• Experience in a communications department and/or a medical or post-secondary education environment would be an asset.
• Experience in Indigenous and Francophone relations an asset.
• Media relations best practices and strategies related to issues management.
• Written communication skills to write, proofread and edit a variety of materials for multi-medias (both prolific and creative).
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities within fast-changing environment.
• Interpersonal skills to communicate and interact with various stakeholders, including government dignitaries, education officials, media and public at large.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues.
• Research skills to gather and analyze data, problem solve, compile information and draft reports.
• Verbal communication skills to discuss University objectives and requirements, explain programs and respond to queries from the public and media.
• Strong project coordination skills.
• Knowledge of digital and social media.
• Knowledge of event management processes and ability to arrange special events.
• Knowledge of University administration policies and procedures, and the ability to understand and interpret the policies.
• Indigenous and Francophone issues as they relate to NOSM University.
• Ability to work in a consultative and collaborative fashion with a variety of other units to further overall University strategic objectives.
• Knowledge and proficiency in use of word processing, spreadsheets, databases, email, and WordPress.
• Knowledge of accessibility standards for web design and content (AODA).
• Ability to work independently and as a team player in meeting conflicting deadlines.
• Organize work and thrive in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment and direct and control workflow to meet deadlines.
• Travel as required.

Language

• Must be fluently bilingual and able to communicate effectively in French and in English (verbally, written, and comprehension).
• Indigenous language skills would be considered an asset