Communications Advisor

The Government of Nova Scotia • HALIFAX, NS

5d • CA$92,586 - CA$115,730 • Onsite

About The Position

Nova Scotia is rich in natural resources – including biodiversity, forests, provincial parks and the land we manage. The Department of Natural Resources is responsible for the development, management, conservation and protection of forest, parks and wildlife resources and the administration of the province's Crown land. Together we are working with Nova Scotians to build a better future through sustainable natural resource management as we all benefit from the natural health and wealth of the province. At the NS Provincial Government, our communications team collaborates across various departments to ensure our messages, programs, and initiatives are informed by thorough research and resonate with the diverse needs of our communities. We don't just accept differences – we celebrate and foster a culture of diversity and belonging. We are committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives and experiences are not only welcomed but valued. We invite applications from individuals who are passionate about promoting equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) in their work. We’re looking for an experienced Communication Advisor who is passionate about delivering clear, impactful messages to a diverse range of audiences. You will work with staff to promote public understanding of initiatives, programs and services, and ensure priorities, policies and actions are clearly communicated. You will work with media, accepting and coordinating requests and media questions, and developing answers. You will also work with professionals in marketing, video, photo, design and more to deliver quality communications products and strategies. The ideal candidate is skilled in developing effective and innovative communication strategies. You have experience working with a diverse range of audiences and crafting communications strategies and products that are accessible and inclusive. You have experience in the full range of communications skills, tactics and strategies to support the needs of the department you’re supporting. You will be expected to brief and advise senior leaders and elected officials.

Requirements

• a post-secondary degree in public relations, communications, journalism, and several years of professional communications experience, or an acceptable equivalent
• strong writing skills, including plain language skills, and speech writing experience
• experience with media relations
• strong collaborative work ethic
• significant experience developing and implementing comprehensive communications strategies that leverage traditional and emerging digital strategies
• experience in communications strategies and tactics for inclusion and accessibility
• experience with social media and digital platforms/technologies, and the ability to effectively engage large audiences with minimal resources
• experience advising clients and working with a diverse range of stakeholders, including a grasp of Nova Scotia’s unique social, historical and demographic makeup
• experience and comfort briefing and advising senior staff and elected officials
• experience working in a fast-paced, collaborative work environment, under tight deadlines

Nice To Haves

• Solid understanding of the public-sector environment
• Leadership experience
• An understanding of Nova Scotia’s unique social, historical and demographic make-up
• Experience working with vulnerable populations and an understanding of the associated social and systemic complexities
• Experience in/knowledge of data analytics, human-centered approaches, and artificial intelligence.
• French language skills

Responsibilities

• briefing and providing advice to senior staff and elected officials
• supporting sessions of the Legislative Assembly and appearances at legislative committees
• media relations
• issues management
• developing and implementing communications strategies
• writing news releases, speeches and other materials
• content development for social media, public announcements, marketing and web
• event planning
• working with partners on stakeholder communications

Benefits

• Defined Benefit Pension Plan
• Health
• Dental
• Life Insurance
• General illness
• Short and Long Term Disability
• Vacation
• Employee and Family Assistance Programs
• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless Career Paths.
• A dynamic, client-focused office environment where service excellence and teamwork are our focus

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level