Communications Team Lead, College Communications and Marketing presso University of Saskatchewan

The communications team lead provides leadership in the development and implementation of innovative, effective, and reliable communication strategies to advance the reputation, priorities, and goals of the college, school or unit, in alignment with the strategic plan. They also support a team of communications professionals as team lead, providing coordination, support and mentorship in operational and strategic matters and supporting professional development and engagement initiatives. 

The communications team lead works within a college, school or unit to develop and implement communications strategies, initiatives and goals. The incumbent works directly with and takes direction from the college, school or unit they support, understanding their values, priorities, challenges, stakeholders and needs. This position also works collaboratively with internal colleagues, which includes communications, development, and alumni relations and external engagement, to achieve communications goals and outcomes institutionally and within the college, school or unit.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Leads the development, implementation and delivery of effective and reliable communication strategies and plans, both annual and long-term, that enhance the reputation and visual identity of the college, school or unit
• Provides strategic advice, guidance and innovative solutions which support the reputation, promotion, branding, priorities and initiatives of the college, school or unit
• Works with college, school or units to identify areas of specific focus in which to provide communications support and development
• Encourages appropriate engagement of internal stakeholders during the planning and implementation of communications strategies
• Develops, builds and maintains key relationships with internal stakeholders from various colleges and units across campus
• Maintains awareness of college, school or unit’s initiatives and activities
• Crafts compelling content that reflects the work of the college, school or unit, as well as communications to alumni, external partners, faculty, staff, and students
• Utilizes various platforms and channels, including but not limited to social media, written copy, website content, photography, video and more
• Follows guidelines and ensures consistent messaging and branding across all channels
• Manages budgetary requirements of communication initiatives and ensures effective use of resources, in collaboration with the college, school or unit
• Participates in team meetings, planning, and other activities that contribute to achieving university-wide goals in communications
• Ensure communications are accessible and suitable for diverse audiences and diverse mediums
• Complies with all relevant university policies, procedures and processes
• Mentors, coaches, and supports a team of communications professionals
• Coordinates and facilitates regular meetings with the assigned team of communications professionals
• Provides recommendations on team learning and professional development opportunities, assisting with planning as required
• Shares learnings which may have an institutional impact and encourages team knowledge transfer to enhance the skills and understanding of the team and college, school or unit stakeholders across the institution
• Monitors team adherence to guidelines, policies, procedures and to promote consistent messaging and branding across all channels
• Liaises with leadership on emerging issues, team opportunities and team complement planning
• Communicates and acts in a respectful and professional manner, collaborates effectively, abides by policy, and contributes to a positive and productive work and learning environment
• Engages in continuous learning by participating in activities, training, and events related to Indigenous engagement, reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion
• Demonstrates respect and dignity for all members of the community, actively contributes to an environment of acceptance and inclusion of others, and responds to different perspectives from a place of curiosity, respect, and non-judgement
• Undertakes related duties, as assigned, consistent with the nature of the position.  

Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing or a related field
• A graduate degree is an asset
• Minimum five years’ experience in communications or marketing with progression in level of responsibility, including a breadth of experience developing and implementing all areas of strategic communications plans, preferably in a post-secondary or similar setting
• Experience and knowledge of post-secondary or academic communications support is preferred
• Advanced knowledge of communication principles
• Strong writing skills to effectively communicate to diverse audiences across multiple platforms
• Strong leadership and management skills
• Demonstrated client service orientation
• Strong problem solving, strategic, and creative thinking skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and meet deadlines on multiple projects with competing demands
• Knowledge, understanding and/or openness to learn about issues (including cultural, socio-economic and other factors) affecting Indigenous peoples
• Ability to identify opportunities and analyze data to inform decisions
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively within a diverse environment and build relationships with a broad range of stakeholders
• Excellent interpersonal skills
  Ability to use and leverage technology effectively. 

Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Meagan Hinther at [email protected].