Strategic Communications Advisor

Are you an effective communicator with strong writing skills, creativity and Strategic Communications expertise?
Consider this opportunity with the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism where you will lead, develop and implement internal and external Strategic Communications plans and products to tell the infrastructure story across the province.
We are looking for a seasoned communicator who demonstrates leadership, political acuity, strong problem-solving, and excellent project and timeline management skills. The ideal candidate is a team player with a proven track record in delivering excellent client service and providing Strategic Communications advice to senior management, with a willingness to provide additional support to the team where needed. We are looking for someone who can distill complex information, build a narrative, tailor communication materials for specific audiences, and execute a plan.
About the Ministry
The Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism leads the government's anti-racism and inclusion initiatives to build an equitable Ontario and promote a sense of belonging through informed policies, programs and services.

OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism:

We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.
We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.
Visit the OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.
We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's Human Rights Code. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.

What can I expect to do in this role?

In this position, you will:
• lead the strategy planning and implementation of communication strategies and public relations activities on a number of high-profile profile projects.
• manage high-profile communications initiatives concurrently, ensuring their efficient execution within established timelines and adeptly managing stakeholder relations.
• develop communications products including snapshots, speeches, media products, correspondence, social media, and presentations.
• provide strategic advice and deliver excellent client service to the Minister, Deputy Minister and senior management on communication strategies.
• provide leadership on communications and issues management.

How do I qualify?

Strategic communications knowledge:

• You are familiar with theories, principles and practices of current communications and marketing as well as relevant legislation to provide Strategic Communications advice and services.
• You have experience with communications planning and implementation to develop and propose strategies.
• You have expertise in communications, digital and various social media platforms, to distribute policy and program information.
• You have experience in communications, social/digital media, marketing and public relations to develop and deliver communications.

Communication and interpersonal skills:

• You have oral and written communication skills, to prepare/edit materials and to convey information in a clear, concise manner to appropriate target audience.
• You have political acuity and the ability to understand the government's priorities.
• You have proven judgment, tact and diplomacy to handle urgent, highly sensitive and confidential matters.
• You have relationship management, advisory, consultation, and negotiation skills to gain consensus on communications strategies and programs from a diverse group of stakeholders.

Project management and leadership skills:

• You have project management experience to complete projects within strict timelines.
• You have leadership skills to lead and coordinate working groups and external service providers.
• You have strategic planning skills to develop innovative digital communications and social media.

Analytical and problem-solving skills:

• You can conduct environmental scans and monitoring and analyze performance for current and future communications strategies, activities and approaches.
• You have analytical skills and techniques to evaluate complex problems and gauge media and public opinion trends and reaction.
• You have the ability to assess situations, anticipate risks and determine appropriate response/action for Strategic Communications initiatives.