Communications Advisor

City of Edmonton•Edmonton, AB

3d•CA$86,046 - CA$108,430•Hybrid

About The Position

The City’s Urban Planning and Economy (UPE) Department is recruiting a Communications Advisor to provide integrated services to support the business goals and objectives of the department and the City. Urban Planning and Economy is a forward-looking department that plans, promotes and advocates change that moves this city towards the Edmonton envisioned by the residents we serve. The Communications Advisor is responsible for creating and implementing marketing and communications plans for high-profile planning and development projects. They will manage media relations, public information sharing, and public engagement to support these projects. The role involves developing creative content strategies across various channels, ensuring consistent messaging, and managing potential issues. The Advisor will also collaborate with other municipalities across the Edmonton Region to develop and implement regional planning initiatives. Overall, the goal is to manage public expectations and maintain the City's positive reputation while aligning with the vision of the Urban Planning and Economy department and the City of Edmonton.

Requirements

Degree in a communications, public relations, or related field, supplemented by a minimum of two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in a designated public relations, public affairs, marketing or public information position OR; Diploma in a communications, public relations or related field, supplemented by a minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in a designated public relations, public affairs or public information position
Exceptional writing, editing and storytelling skills with extensive knowledge of communications practices, principles, and techniques and considerable background experience or knowledge or allied fields, such as advertising, creative services, audio and visual production, social media and content creation.
Demonstrated ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues at all levels of an organization, including senior leaders managing operational and policy/program areas, and contractors or consultants
Superior issues identification, management and media relations skills
Excellent verbal, interpersonal and presentation skills
Strong project management and event planning skills
Experience and proficiency with contemporary computer technologies (e.g., Google platform, Microsoft Word, Adobe suite, etc.)
Alignment to our Art of Inclusion: Our Diversity and Inclusion Framework
Alignment to our Cultural Commitments
Alignment to our Leadership Competencies

Nice To Haves

Accreditation in the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) or Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS)

Responsibilities

Lead, develop, manage and implement integrated marketing and communications plans and projects for both external and internal audiences
Identify opportunities and emerging issues and provide timely strategic advice and effective communication strategies
Manage media relations and potential issues, including reviewing reports for City Council, planning and managing media events, developing strategies and messaging, coaching spokespeople and serving as a spokesperson
Maintain a broad perspective on corporate priorities, as well as those of council, stakeholder groups and other orders of government.
Work with clients, designers and suppliers to help create effective communication and advertising products
Lead and support marketing and education initiatives as well as client responses to citizen inquiries
Provide communications support to public engagement initiatives, involving residents in the development of projects and initiatives
Write news releases, public service announcements, media advisories, brochures, newsletters and other communication products
Edit, develop and update web and 311 content for programs, projects and initiatives
Use social media (e.g. Facebook, Twitter) to advance business goals and enhance internal and external communication efforts
Related duties as required