The Communications and Media Relations Specialist will develop and implement strategic communication plans that support high-profile programs and services within Strathcona County. This position works as a key member of a strategic team of communications professionals responsible for providing robust corporate communications services within a centre-led model.

This position will serve both internal and external audiences, providing essential communications solutions for a variety of organizational, divisional and departmental initiatives. The primary focus will be to build awareness and understanding of County policies, programs and services. The successful incumbent will lead media management efforts, including monitoring news stories affecting the County, drafting media inquiry responses and establishing and overseeing the newsroom. Additionally, the role will focus on growing awareness of Strathcona County through unpaid media channels, leveraging opportunities to enhance the County’s visibility and engagement with the community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop strategic communications and marketing plans for corporate services departments that support effective communication to intended audiences – establishing goals, objectives, audiences, key messages, tactics and evaluation metrics
• Write and edit for a variety of mediums, including print, web, social media, advertising, presentations, news releases and speaking notes, reflecting the established themes and key messages
• Review or conduct research related to demographics, participation trends, surveys, web analytics, media coverage and issues identification to inform strategy and grow awareness of the County
• Serve as the primary media contact, handling media inquiries and drafting potential responses, building and maintaining strong relationships with key media contacts including journalists, editors and influencers
• Identify, assess and mitigate risks and issues, and recommend effective solutions to safeguard the organization reputation, coordinate and manage press conferences, media briefing and interviews to effectively communicate key messages
• Provide support during an emergency incident or crisis, including participating in the Emergency Operations Centre and PIO (Public Information Officer) on-call phone rotation

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's degree or post-secondary diploma in communications, public relations or a related discipline
• At least 5-7 years of experience working in a communications role, with demonstrated expertise and experience in communications services
• Media management and media monitoring experience
• Membership in a communications professional association is an asset (e.g. IABC, CPRS)
• Government and/or political experience is an asset
• Working knowledge of graphic design and layout would be an asset (graphic design software and photography/image editing skills)
• Excellent planning, organizational, project management, written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work under time restraints and adapt to changing job priorities
• Solid understanding of communications principles and practices within the field, and of Strathcona County communication policies, guidelines and protocols
• Strong practice of plain language writing and editing
• Strong proficiency in a computer environment (i.e. Microsoft Office Suite, web content and database software) and ability to make best use of technology
• Strong knowledge of commercial printing and standards to efficiently produce quality and cost effective promotional pieces
• Strong interpersonal skills and team qualities, ability to work with confidence and collaboratively with others throughout the organization to share communications expertise

Who We Are:

Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta. Our vision is to become Canada’s most livable community, where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity, respect, safety, fairness, and cooperation.

Why Join Strathcona County (depending on position)

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
  • Extended health and dental coverage
  • Health and wellness spending account
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Retirement and pension programs
  • Earned day off program
  • Employee and family assistance program
• Commitment to employee development, through internal and external training and development opportunities
• Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace

Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered. This role may be eligible to participate in our hybrid work program.

This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.

Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.