Purpose:
The Director, Strategic Communications is accountable for developing and implementing strategic marketing, communication and public relations plans that align with the mission and vision of the School and ensure appropriately phased communication with prospective students, staff, faculty, partners and supporters in the lead up to and launch of the School of Medicine. This role will work with colleagues within the School, Faculty of Health and broader York University community to ensure various interested and affected parties are engaged, heard and reflected in its plans and communication materials, kept up to date on the school's development and have meaningful and appropriate opportunities for on-going engagement and mutually beneficial partnership. The Director, Strategic Communications is a consummate professional collaborator, exceptional communicator, planner, project manager and master of detail. Reporting to the Executive Director, Operations and Resource Planning, Director, Strategic Communications will work closely with the senior administration of the School of Medicine, and colleagues to champion the development and promotion of a strong and effective communications and marketing strategy that ensures a successful launch of the new School of Medicine.The Director, Strategic Communications also works closely with the Faculty of Health, Communications & Public Affairs Division (C&PA) and other Divisions at York University to ensure efforts are complementary to the broader strategic communications objectives and are consistent with the University Brand.

Education:
Bachelors degree in relevant discipline.

Experience:
Six (6) years related experience in strategic communications
Demonstrated experience in strategic communications, project management and public relations in the health care, community and post-secondary education sectors.
Four (4) years of management experience.
Demonstrated high level of professionalism in the following areas: strategic communication program design, leadership, team building, project management and budgeting.
Experience designing and executing engagement strategies with internal and external stakeholders, including government, healthcare providers, and equity-deserving communities.
Proven experience leading communications through organizational change or large-scale institutional launches.
Demonstrate ability o work collaboratively with partner groups, to influence and provide strategic communications advice, counsel and support.
Strong understanding of digital communications tools and analytics platforms. ability to optimize content based on performance metrics.
Intermediate or higher knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite. prior use of online content management systems or website development tools is desirable
Demonstrated experience providing metrics for the various communication modalities which will be provided regularly to senior administration

Skills:
Knowledge
Demonstrated acumen in strategic communications, editorial and journalistic principles
Foundational knowledge in the principles and values of community engagement
Comprehensive understanding of organizational and staffing strategies, university/public sector governance, policies, and procedures
Knowledge of budgeting and forecasting principles and practices
Proven knowledge of evaluation methodologies related to communications reach and impact Skills
Strong interpersonal and influencing skills with the ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
Demonstrated leadership, strong strategic planning and project management skills.
Creative collaborator, a great listener and a proactive strategic communicator
Professional demeanor and ability to exercise tact, judgement, confidentiality, discretion and a high degree of political acuity.
Effective communication skills.
Demonstrated ability in applying EDI principles to communications, including the use of inclusive language, accessible design, and culturally responsive messaging.
Editing and copy-writing skills with the ability to streamline and standardize communications written by a variety of authors.
Ability to process, synthesize and present information/recommendations/plans to varied audiences.
Demonstrated creative writing and storytelling.
Ability to produce a wide range of materials to reach targeted internal and external audiences.
Demonstrated initiative and analytical skill.

Additional Notes:
Note: Verification of degree(s)/credentials required.
Normal office work environment.
Works extended hours as a result of strict and unpredictable deadlines.
Must be able to work flexible hours when required for special events and activities including weekends and evenings.

• Compensation:

York's CPM Compensation Framework has a salary grid consisting of 6 or 8 steps (depending on job grade) which is reviewed annually with possible adjustments, and a lump sum Performance Based Recognition Award. Employees will receive the grid adjustment and depending on performance, eligible permanent employees may move to the next step of the grid and may receive a lump sum Performance Based Recognition Award.Visit the CPM Compensation page on the HR Website to find out more about York's CPM Compensation Program.

York is committed to ensuring the way we work serves our diverse community and advances our commitment to Living Well Together, one of the Six Priorities for Action in the University Academic Plan. As part of this commitment the University has implemented a Hybrid Work Policy.

The selected incumbent for this role is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement which will be confirmed based on operational requirements.

The University welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, including, but not limited to women, persons with disabilities, visible minorities (racialized), Indigenous Peoples and persons of any gender identity and sexual orientation. York University is committed to a positive, supportive and inclusive environment.

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PLEASE NOTE: This job posting is for an existing vacancy. Applications must be received by 11:55 pm EST on the posted deadline date, if applicable. Posting deadlines can be updated, or modified, at any time based on hiring needs. Please refer to the York U Career Portal when confirming posting deadlines.