Under the strategic direction set by the Vice-President Communications and Advancement, the communications officer will contribute to the work of the department and university to strengthen its reputation and its relationships with key audiences locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

The communications department provides a centre for communications in university communications, internal communications, news/media services and editorial services.

Under the direction of the Manager, Communications, the communications officer will create and deliver communications materials and communications activities in support of the university’s and unit’s strategic goals and priorities. The communications officer will also collaborate with and offer cross-departmental communications support for schools, programs and units, including digital communications, advancement, alumni relations, stakeholder and government relations, marketing and recruitment, and the office of the President. The communications officer will assist as needed in media relations and issues management activities, along with providing support to the Royal Roads University executive team.

An accomplished, professional writer, the communications officer writes and edits engaging news and feature stories that align with the university’s strategic priorities and enhances the university’s digital communication by developing high-impact social media content and strategies, including digital storytelling initiatives.

By increasing awareness and profile of Royal Roads evidenced by faculty, student and alumni successes, its distinct learning and teaching model, market-responsive programs, applied research, initiatives, heritage, campus and events), the communications officer helps strengthen Royal Roads’ reputation and builds positive support for enrolment growth and fundraising potential.

Job Requirements

• A degree in public relations, communications or journalism and five years’ experience is preferred. A minimum of a two-year certificate in public relations, communications or journalism, with commensurate experience, may be considered.
• Advanced writing skills, including experience writing and feature articles, news releases and related communications materials, reports and briefing notes, including writing for all mediums.
• Advanced editing skills to produce high-quality communications materials that adhere to established style guidelines.
• Demonstrated media relations and/or issues management skills and experience.
• Experience creating written materials for social media and other segmented audiences considered an asset.
• Strong inter-personal and verbal communications skills, including the ability to deal sensitively with critical issues.
• Excellent organizational, project management and time management skills, including the ability to work to deadlines.
• Independent initiative, sound judgment and developed decision-making abilities.
• Content management system experience considered an asset.
• Experience with computer programs and software (training will be provided in department systems).

Additional Information

This is a temporary, full-time position working 37.5 hours per week for a term of 12 months. This position has been evaluated at MPT-C with a salary range of $76,430 (minimum) to $89,820 (midpoint) to $103,209 (maximum) per annum. Employment offers will normally be made between the minimum and midpoint of the range and are determined by knowledge, experience and internal equity. The University is pleased to offer a comprehensive benefit package. Royal Roads University is strongly committed to fostering diversity within our community. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our faculty and staff including, but not limited to, women, visible minorities, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity.

While Royal Roads University values all applications we receive, only those candidates shortlisted for further consideration will be contacted. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. However, you will need to be legally eligible to work in Canada for the duration of the employment contract. If you require any form of accommodation throughout the recruitment process, please contact us directly at human.resources@royalroads.ca attention: Abbi Rogers or 250-391-2600 extension 4408 so we can offer you individualized assistance and ensure equity in our recruitment and hiring process. ALL COMPETITIONS WILL CLOSE AT 10.00 P.M. ON THE DATE OF CLOSING