Are you an internal communications professional with expertise in providing multiple project-based communications solutions and implementing communication and change management plans within a fast- paced environment?

If so, come join the Human Resources Department of Strathcona County as our Communications Specialist!

Reporting to the Manager, Organizational Effectiveness within the Human Resources Department, you will be responsible for building employee awareness and providing a full range of communications services, including developing and implementing communications and engagement strategies.

You will serve internal audiences by providing a range of communications and marketing services that include developing and implementing communication strategies, recommending best approaches and producing communication materials. You may also provide communications expertise on other corporate division initiatives, working in conjunction with the County's Communication's department as required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the Human Resources department in developing strategies to heighten employee awareness and engagement in various initiatives and projects
• Develop communication and change management tools to support various HR and corporate initiatives, programs and policies
• Support the planning and implementation
• Contribute to and collaborate on corporate communications strategies and initiatives to enhance internal communications for the organization of events managed by Human Resources ensuring successful awareness, participation and execution
• Incorporate brand messaging in communications and ensure visual identity and writing style guidelines and standards are met to advance brand/reputation
• Contribute to internal communications, engagement, and change management initiatives, including implementation of supporting tools
• Provide communications support as required during an emergency incident or crisis
• Liaise with Corporate Communications to ensure HR is aware of and follows current processes and protocols when communicating on internal website, and with Mayor, Council, SLT and County employees
• Initiate, create and post dynamic content to online channels (social media, intranet) to support internal business and communication objectives
• Support Corporate Communications in liaising with media in relation to project or event news and messaging as required
• Evaluate current communication processes and recommend changes for improved effectiveness and efficiencies
• Identify emerging issues and opportunities where communication activities can contribute to reaching overall corporate objectives
• Participate in communications-related communities of practice (CoP) to share best practices with colleagues and build effective working relationships.
• Lead the secretariat support for the People Plan Stewardship Committee (PPSC), including guiding and coordinating committee to ensure it is supported and meeting objectives. Lead corporate PPSC initiatives, develop and implement communications strategies, manage membership recruitment and onboarding and liaise with Chairs to ensure meeting materials are created and distributed
• Provide communications support for the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee (DIAC) to further committee goals and advance the County's workplace culture and employee value proposition
• Compile, write and submit applications for top employer awards to advance Strathcona County's employer brand/reputation
• Support HR's Talent Acquisition team with recruitment marketing initiatives for the County's careers website (i.e., Linkedin) and job fairs as required

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in Human Resources, Communications, Public Relations or related discipline with a minimum of 5 years of related experience
• Internal communications and/or change management experience in a public sector environment is preferred
• Previous Human Resources experience or Human Resources focused communications is preferred
• Membership in a communication professional association (IABC or CPRS) is an asset
• Graphic design software and photography/image editing skills and experience is an asset
• Solid understanding of communication principles and practices within the field
• Excellent planning, organizational and project management skills
• Demonstrated solid written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work under time restraints and adapt to changing job priorities
• Ability to advise cross-departmental teams to create synergy in achieving communications goals
• Strong interpersonal communication skills that include active listening, critical thinking and problem-solving, professionalism, tact and teamwork
• Strong proficiency in a computer environment (Microsoft Suite, web content, and database software) and ability to make best use of technology
• Strong understanding of change management methodologies and practices is an asset

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.