Communications Officer

McGill University

2d•CA$66,190 - CA$99,290•Hybrid

About The Position

Reporting to the Associate Director, Editorial, the Communications Officer promotes a positive image of the University through the creation of engaging, clear, consistent, and accurate content. Through network -building and close collaboration with researchers and key stakeholders, the successful candidate will research, write and disseminate a range of communications materials for various audiences on various topics in support of McGill’s strategic priorities and mission.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree in communications or related field
Three (3) years' related experience, or more
Good understanding of the news media landscape.
Exceptional writing skills.
Proficiency in both French and English.
Thrives in a team environment.
Excellent interpersonal skills and diplomacy.
Proven sense of priority and urgency.
Ability to work under pressure with tight deadlines on multiple dossiers, in a context of changing priorities.
Knowledge of commonly used project management software and technical tools.
Authorized to work in Canada
Willing to work in the province of Quebec
English communication both verbally and in writing at a level # 4 on a scale of 0-4.

Responsibilities

Uncover, research, write and disseminate materials (stories, news releases, media alerts, pitches etc.) and gather associated assets, like photography, for various audiences in accordance with the University’s strategic priorities
Translate complex academic work into accessible, accurate, and engaging content for non-specialist audiences
Arrange, conduct and summarize interviews with researchers for multiplatform use to promote the impact of the university locally, nationally and globally
Secure consistent media coverage via the strategic dissemination of content
Maintain up-to-date media contact lists on our media monitoring/dissemination platform
Stay abreast of current events and emerging issues, including related news media coverage
Regularly exchange information and collaborate with colleagues, including faculty and peer communicators
Assist in the implementation of communications strategies in close collaboration with CIR colleagues
Respond to media enquiries for experts in a timely manner
Provide media training for McGill staff, students and faculty
Help boost and track McGill’s impact (as measured by key performance indicators) in select areas including research and institutional news and progress on critical files, by researching and providing advice about best practices, gaps and opportunities
Serve as a member of the Emergency Communications group, supporting the University’s communications in urgent situations where the security of the McGill community is threatened; this requires knowledge of applicable protocols and procedures, and availability outside of business hours

Benefits

Competitive benefits package (Health, Dental, Life Insurance) (if eligible)
Defined contribution pension plan (with employer contribution up to 10%) (if eligible)
Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)
Competitive vacation policy
Two (2) personal days
Two (2) floating holidays
Nine (9) "Summer Fridays" - paid days off between the St-Jean Baptiste holiday and Labour Day
Paid time off over the December holiday period
Tuition waiver for regular employees and their dependents
Up to two (2) days of remote work per week where the position permits