Communications Advisor

City of Edmonton•Edmonton, AB

1d•CA$86,046 - CA$108,430•Hybrid

About The Position

The City of Edmonton is seeking a talented communications professional with a keen interest in tackling complex projects to plan for Edmonton today and the future. You have a knack for sparking public interest in future-focused ideas and plans by breaking down complex concepts in a way that Edmontonians will understand easily. The City’s Urban Planning and Economy (UPE) Department is recruiting a Communications Advisor to lead communications activities that support the City’s business goals. 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 will lead communications strategies to tell the story of how UPE is planning for our growing city and how the City is preparing for the day when two million people call Edmonton home. The position will also lead communications activities to support the extensive public engagement we undertake as we plan for that growth.

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
Considerable experience in taking complex ideas and simplifying for a broad audience
Exceptional storytelling skills, including writing/editing content for use across a range of communications tools
Extensive knowledge of new and existing communications principles, practices and techniques
Considerable experience in leading and/or working with other professionals in fields such as creative design, audio/visual production and advertising coordination
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
Adeptly pivot as programs and initiatives/projects evolve as goals and objectives adjust
Handle multiple projects with both short- and long-term deadlines
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, etc.)
Alignment to the City’s Art of Inclusion: Our Diversity and Inclusion Framework
Alignment to the City’s Cultural Commitments
Alignment to the City’s Leadership Competencies

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Develop and implement communications and marketing strategies for projects, programs, initiatives and public engagement activities
Identify opportunities to tell the City’s story around how we are planning and managing Edmonton’s growth
Maintain an understanding of City Council and corporate priorities
Maintain awareness of policies, programs and legislation from other orders of government
Identify emerging issues, provide timely advice and implement effective issues management strategies
Manage media relations, lead media events and monitor media activities, including supporting/coaching UPE spokespeople in preparing for media interactions. Alternatively, serve as spokesperson, as appropriate
Review reports for City Council and prepare plans and messaging related to the public release of reports, when needed
Lead marketing, creative/design, advertising and videography projects in collaboration with internal City teams and external contractors
Write content to use in communications materials including news releases, newsletters, social media plans, videos, advertising, printed materials, 311 scripts and the City’s website
Other related duties, as required