Communications and Graphics Specialist

University of Guelph•Guelph, ON

About The Position

The Communications and Graphics Specialist plays a key role within the department of Student Wellness supporting the design and maintenance of print and digital marketing and communications materials for the Student Wellness Services team. In this role, a hands-on approach is key for the execution of important deliverables, ensuring that projects meet tight deadlines while multi-tasking work on lower profile projects. They will work closely with the Marketing and Communications Officer as well as Student Wellness staff and student volunteers, independent practitioners, other departments on campus and external vendors. This position will develop several different market-specific print materials including signage and advertising, postcards, handouts, and digital assets such as social media posts and digital signage that meets the needs of the university student demographic. In collaboration with key departmental stakeholders, they will develop print materials that support our digital presence and integrate digital media tactics such as keyword inclusion and exclusive URL marketing, creating a bridge from print to digital media. They will be responsible for gathering metrics and assisting with using these metrics to inform further tactics. This role also involves website maintenance, supporting SEO strategies and ensuring accessibility compliance and brand alignment. Experience in graphic and web design, print production, AODA standards and digital analytics is key to the success of this role.

Requirements

Three-year community college program in graphic design, web design or a related field.
At least two or more years of previous experience in graphic design, web design or related field.
Strong proficiency with Canva, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and the Adobe Creative Suite.
Strong understanding of typography, layout and colour in both print and digital.
Experience with website content management systems (Drupal preferred).
Strong Organizational and Time Management Skills. Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
Superior writing and editing skills, particularly related to writing in an online environment/format.
Excellent understanding of web culture and new/digital media.
Marketing knowledge and experience.
Project Management Skills.
Knowledge of marketing and branding principles, particularly in higher education.
Knowledge and experience with Google Analytics, SEO optimization.
Understanding of AODA Compliance standards.
Commitment to ongoing professional development and skill building.

Responsibilities

Design artwork and coordinate digital media campaigns, social media posts and digital signage.
Collaborate with central university communications departments and IT to track campaign performance and generate reports.
To design and write content for various print materials, including posters, postcards, SWAG, forms, reports and marketing and promotional pieces.
Assist in writing and updating content, designing graphics, and ensuring consistency across social, digital, and print materials.
Additional digital asset design and maintenance including PowerPoint presentations, webinar graphics and social media assets. Assist in writing and updating content, designing graphics, and ensuring consistency across social, digital, and print materials.
Apply expertise in web design and content management systems to develop and maintain the Student Wellness Services website, ensuring compliance with University Brand Guidelines and AODA standards in collaboration with CCS and C&M.
Design website banners, as well as newsletters, as needed.
Support Student Wellness units by keeping web content up-to-date and aligned with print publications and other digital communications.
Participate in web planning and strategy sessions with the Marketing and Communications Officer.
Work closely with the Marketing and Communications Officer to support SEO growth strategies and explore new pathways for increasing organic web traffic and lead generation.
Monitor social media engagement and inboxes and work with departmental managers and staff in responding as appropriate.
Other design and marketing requests as needed.