Communications Officer - 2

The Director of Strategic Communications and Public Affairs is currently seeking a temporary full-time Communications Officer. The purpose of the position is to support the internal and external communications needs of the organization ensuring alignment with the Mission, Vision, Values, Strategic Plan and corporate brand. As a significant contributor to Waypoint’s efforts to advance its profile as a leading specialty mental health and addiction hospital, the Communications Officer will be responsible for growing the organization’s efforts in external communications, in particular with media relations activities.

Please Note: This position offers a hybrid work environment consisting of in-office and remote work. The office location is 500 Church St in Penetanguishene, ON.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Approximately 50% of the Communications Officer’s time will be spent growing the organization’s efforts in external communications, in particular in media relations:

• Developing mutually beneficial relationships with members of local, regional, national and specialty media.
• Proactive pitching of research and other priorities to appropriate media.
• Monitoring and management of issues that could negatively impact Waypoint’s reputation and preparing responses for media and other stakeholders.
• Preparing regular media activity distribution for Waypoint senior leadership.
• Researching and developing media releases, articles and public service announcements, advertisements and written materials for dissemination to local, regional, national and specialty media.
• Developing key messages and coaching members of the Waypoint team for successful media interviews.
• Developing feature content, with emphasis on storytelling by profiling hospital staff and patients/families for Waypoint external and internal channels, including social media, website, intranet, internal newsletters.
• Organizing and managing media conferences and special events.

Approximately 50% of the Communications Officer’s time will be spent on leading and/or supporting the following:

• Communications planning, development and execution of strategic priorities, special projects, programs and services, including outpatient, community and regional programs.
• Execution of fundraising communications activities, internal communications activities, community and stakeholder relations and associated activities.
• Assisting in the preparation of presentations and other materials for internal and external stakeholders including speech writing, public education campaigns and associated materials.

REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Post-secondary education and/or upgrading through courses or equivalent experience in public relations, business communications, media, marketing or related field.
• Experience in a mid-level public relations, communications, marketing or media role including planning, developing and implementing engaging and measurable communications plans to support organizational goals.
• Current or past membership in Canadian Public Relations Society, International Association of Business Communications or related professional organization an asset.
• Experience in a health care, social services and/or non-profit fundraising environment an asset.
• Knowledge of local, regional, national and specialty media.
• Strong writing and editing skills, including writing for different platforms and audiences.
• Branding and corporate identity implementation.
• Facilitation skills for coaching others, in particular with media relations, and engaging individuals and groups in discussion on ways to communicate information internally and externally.
• Research and interviewing techniques for gathering information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft suite of products.
• Results oriented work ethic to work independently and undertake tasks needed to accomplish work objectives and deliver quality, consistent and timely results
• Demonstrated leadership, analytical thinking, and conflict resolution, interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Proven written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to adapt readily to change.
• Models and promotes core ethical practice, Waypoint Values (Caring, Respect, Accountability, Innovation), and reflects an optimistic and positive attitude.
• Preference for proficiency in French/English language skills.
• You must meet the requirements of our COVID-19 Immunization Policy by providing proof of full vaccination, or a request and receipt of an accommodation under the Ontario Human Rights Code, including a medical exemption.

HOW DO I APPLY?

Waypoint employees apply through the Employee Self-Service portal at https://employees.waypointcentre.ca and external applicants apply to http://www.waypointcentre.ca/i_want_to/join_your_team by close of business (4:00 pm)on December 10th, 2023 quoting Job ID WC23-345. Attach your cover letter and resume detailing why you are interested in this opportunity and how you meet the qualifications and key accountabilities specified.