Employment Listing

Senior Communications Associate, VP (Indigenous)

DUE TO THE SIGNIFICANT CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE POSITION, THIS POSITION IS DESIGNATED FOR INDIGENOUS CANDIDATES. APPLICANTS MUST SELF-DECLARE ON THEIR COVER LETTER/RESUME AS INDIGENOUS (FIRST NATION, METIS AND/OR INUIT).

MINIMUM FORMAL EDUCATION/TRAINING

Experience and/or undergraduate degree in communications, or other related specialization

EXPERIENCE

·         Minimum 2 - 5 years related to communications and/or client management.

·         An equivalent combination of education and/or experience will be considered.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

·         Experience, knowledge, and competency with respect to Indigenous cultures and histories.

·         Demonstrated cultural competency skills and experience working with Indigenous communities and organizations.

·         Strong relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations in Winnipeg and Manitoba is preferred.

·         Exceptional verbal and written communications skills and a high level of creativity and problem-solving.

·         Proven track record of successful strategic communications planning and implementation.

·         Exceptional relationship building skills.

·         Ability to use print and digital communications platforms to meet identified goals and objectives.

·         Strong time management skills and the ability to prioritize conflicting demands.

·         Strong project management skills.

·         Possess a high degree of independence, diplomacy and the ability to work collectively in a fast-paced environment.

·         Ability to effectively collaborate and negotiate.

·         Liaises successfully with external partners and senior leaders within the University.

·         Ability to manage a broad range of strategic communications projects from concept to completion.

·         Strong work ethic.

Responsibilities

·         Responsible for planning, strategy development and implementation of all strategic communications and marketing efforts associated with the Office of Vice-President (Indigenous) portfolio.

·         Prepare a wide variety of spoken and written communications products for their assigned area such as communications plans, speaking notes, and UM Today stories.

·         Supports content development and editing across a variety of communications platforms including print publications, web and digital content, and video.

·         Ensures communications meets the standards set by ER and client area. 

·         Assists in the strategic planning and promotion of events associated with their client area.

·         Provides guidance on matters related to team’s portfolio areas to co-workers and leadership within SCO and ER, as well as to partner areas across UM.

·         Works closely with senior leadership of portfolio areas as well as Executive Director, SCO; Director, Institutional Communications to determine best actions in support of strategic goals.

·         Ensures best practice strategies and effective project management are followed to ensure projects achieve objectives and are implemented on time and on budget.

·         Identifies and implements market research strategies to inform strategic communications activities and measure success.

·         Provides strategic input regarding sensitive communications.

·         Participates in Indigenous cultural events and Indigenous-focused activities, building relationships and being an active member of the Indigenous community at UM.

·         Works collaboratively within External Relations, to ensure alignment of strategic communications and marketing activities based on institutional priorities.

·         Proactively identifies opportunities and potential communications issues related to their client portfolio.

·         Participates in committees related to issues within the Office of Vice-President (Indigenous) portfolio or more wide-ranging campus initiatives (i.e., SCO representative on the COVID Recovery Steering Committee).

·         Identifies opportunities for efficiencies and synergies with client area.

·         Participates as an active member of the larger strategic communications team.

·         Performs other related duties as assigned.

Job Details

Senior Communications Associate, VP (Indigenous) – Level F (EMAPS)

Budget-funded Continuing Full-time

35.00 hours/week Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 4.30 pm

The Opportunity

The position exists because of the University’s growing commitment and investment in advancing Indigenous engagement and supporting Indigenous students. The Senior Communications Associate, VP (Indigenous) will be supported in maintaining and building their valuable relationship with Indigenous peoples and communities. Working collaboratively with Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners, both internal and external to UM the Senior Communications Associate is responsible for leading strategic communications planning and high-level initiatives across the VP’s portfolio areas.

Senior Communications Associate works closely with the Office of V.P Indigenous, External Relations, and the Indigenous Engagement and Communications team. The incumbent manages all strategic marketing and communications needs associated with the Office of Vice-President (Indigenous) and needs of UM community and stakeholders, as reflected in the annual marketing and communications plans.

The Senior Communications Associate has specialized knowledge of their partner area and is responsible for establishing best practice communications programs to address the objectives, needs and opportunities of their portfolio. The incumbent plays a vital role in promoting and building the reputation of the university and its areas of strategic priority at the internal, local, regional, and national level. This position reports to Director, University Communications, Strategic Communications Office, External Relations.

Why the University of Manitoba?

Along with being one of Manitoba’s top employers, we are proud to provide a collaborative and enriching work environment. In addition to a strong compensation package with a competitive salary, the University provides an exceptional workplace that includes:

• Comprehensive group benefits and pension plan.
• Competitive vacation time.
• Employee and Family Assistance Program.
• A full spectrum of professional development opportunities.

The University of Manitoba is a driving force of innovation, discovery, and advancement. Our momentum is propelled by our campus community – UM faculty, staff, and students whose determination and curiosity shape our world for the better. Our teaching, learning and work environment is uniquely strengthened and enriched by Indigenous perspectives. With two main campuses in Winnipeg, satellite campuses throughout Manitoba, and world-wide research, UM’s impact is global.

Discover outstanding employee benefits, experience world-class facilities, and join a dynamic community that values reconciliation, sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. We are one of Manitoba’s Top Employers and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers. At the University of Manitoba, what inspires you can change everything.

Apply to Tamara@amik.ca