Job title: Creative Communication Specialist

Location: Ottawa/Akwesasne – Canada

Employment Status: Full-Time Position

Closing Date: Open until it is filled.

Internal/External Competition

About the AFN

The AFN is an advocacy organization that takes direction and fulfills mandates as directed by First Nations in-Assembly through resolutions. As a national advocacy organization for First Nations, the AFN seeks to advance First Nations Inherent and Treaty Rights through the development of policy, public education, and where applicable, the co-development of legislation to build First Nations capacity.

The AFN was created out of a desire among First Nations leadership for a strong and effective collective advocacy organization. From this, values such as respect for human rights, diversity, justice, and the sovereignty of each rights-holding First Nation guide the work of the organization.

Position Overview

The Creative Communications Specialist plays a key role in developing compelling visual and written content that supports organizational storytelling, brand development, and strategic communications. This role blends hands‑on creative production—such as graphic design, video editing, and multimedia creation—with broader communications responsibilities, including campaign support, message development, and content planning. The ideal candidate is a versatile communicator who can translate ideas into engaging visuals and narratives across multiple platforms.

Reporting to the Director, Communications, the Creative Communications Specialist will have the following,

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop visual assets for campaigns, digital channels, presentations, and print materials.

• Produce and edit multimedia content including videos, animations, and graphics to support storytelling and brand initiatives.

• Ensure brand consistency across all creative outputs.

• Organize and maintain digital assets including creative files, templates, and brand resources.

• Draft engaging copy for newsletters, social media, web content, and promotional materials.

• Support storytelling by identifying and shaping narratives that highlight organizational impact, culture, and initiatives.

• Research, write, and edit communications materials such as speaking notes, press releases, and web content for internal and external audiences.

• Oversee the preparation and editing of sector materials—including briefing notes, reports, updates, letters, memos, emails, and workplans—ensuring accuracy, clarity, timely delivery, and proper records management.

• Support communications campaigns across internal and external channels.

• Assist with internal communications including announcements and event support.

• Contribute to content calendars, campaign timelines, and strategic communications planning.

• Communicate professionally with stakeholders through email, meetings, and virtual platforms.

• Monitor engagement metrics and recommend improvements to enhance content performance.

• Collaborate with program teams and leadership to gather information and translate it into compelling content.

• Build productive working relationships with internal teams to support coordinated communications efforts.

• Other duties assigned to them by the Director, Communications

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based, with frequent travel required for meetings, community engagements, and events.

• Availability to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, as necessary to meet organizational needs.

• Ability to handle high-pressure situations and adapt to changing circumstances.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer use.

• Capacity to manage complex and sensitive issues with professionalism, discretion, and cultural sensitivity.

• Emotional resilience and the ability to navigate politically sensitive and challenging environments in a professional and effective manner.

Who can apply

• Post‑secondary education in Communications, Graphic Design, Marketing, Media Production, or a related field.

• 3–5 years of experience in communications, creative, or multimedia role.

• Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro) or equivalent tools.

• Exceptional writing skills, editing, and storytelling skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and adapt to shifting priorities.

• Experience with social media platforms, content management systems, and digital communication tools.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite of tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

• Demonstrated capacity to prioritize work and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to brand consistency.

• Experience with layout, design, video, and photography skills is an asset.

• Proficiency in English is required. Fluency in French or a First Nations language is an asset.

Diversity Statement

Qualified persons of First Nations Ancestry will be given preference in accordance with s.16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act.

Why Work with AFN?

At the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), we value our employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, engaging, and rewarding workplace. When you join our team, you’ll enjoy:

• Employer-Paid Health Benefit Premiums – Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, with premiums fully paid by AFN.

• Generous Pension Matching – A competitive pension plan with significant employer contributions to help you build your future.

• Ample Vacation, Sick, and Personal Days – Generous vacation entitlements, paid sick leave, and personal days, plus additional non-legislative time off throughout the year.

• Professional Development Support – Coverage for courses, certifications, and training to help you grow your skills and advance your career.

• Wellness Funds – Annual funds you can use towards fitness, mental health supports, or other wellness-related expenses.

• Modern, Central Location – Our bright, collaborative office is located in the Sun Life Building in downtown Ottawa, with Parliament LRT Station right in the building for an easy commute.

• Convenient Amenities – Steps away from cafes, restaurants, and shops.

• Meaningful Work – Be part of a national organization advocating for First Nations, making a positive difference for communities across Canada.

• Collaborative & Inclusive Culture – Work alongside passionate, dedicated colleagues in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Accommodation Statement

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is dedicated to an inclusive selection process and work environment. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the Human Resources representative when you are invited to meet regarding this employment opportunity.

While we appreciate all applications, only those candidates short-listed for an interview will be contacted.

AFN may cancel, postpone, or revise employment opportunities at any time.