Communications Coordinator

Job Summary

The Communications Co-ordinator reports to the Supervisor, Business Communications within the Media, PR and City Communications team. The role supports operational communication plans, develops creative ideas for engaging diverse audiences, and fosters strong relationships within Strategic Communications and Initiatives (SC&I) and the broader organization. The position is strategic and collaborative, with an emphasis on data, trends, and PR activities.This is not a marketing position and we require someone with direct experience and exceptional communications skills. 

This position involves a hybrid work arrangement, combining both in-office and remote work.

Duties and Responsibilities

Communication planning

• Liaise with assigned City departments and divisions to understand their business goals, work plans, communications and community engagement needs. 
• Understand target audiences and identify the appropriate strategic communications channels to reach them.
• Develop SMART objectives (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound) and appropriate communication approaches.
• Draft communications plans and tactics in collaboration with marketing and other functional representatives in the department.
• Assist with tracking and reporting on projects and communications activities, including wrap-up reports and monitoring for improvements or changes.

Tactical execution

• Collaborate with other team members to deliver communication tactics for communications plans, campaigns, strategies and public engagement.  
• Contribute creative/innovative ideas to develop strategies, story angles, media pitches and content.
• Coordinate projects to keep them on track and within budget. 
• Deliver consistent, high-quality writing and editing of compelling content and distributing them online, to media and through other channels. Content includes but is not limited to news releases, key messages, media stories, feature articles, newsletter copy etc.
• Post content and manage updates for the City’s online newsroom.

Support services  

• Assist other team members (including Communication Advisors and Senior Communications Advisors) with the delivery of project work.
• Develop award submission entries and compile supporting work samples.
• Research and benchmark for specific projects and in general about communication practices.
• Keep abreast of current trends on social media platforms and within public relations, communications, and public engagement.
• Be an effective collaborator and team player to support the overall goals and vision of the SC&I Division.
• Participate as required within the SC&I emergency response team.
• Perform other duties as assigned including acting as a back-up for other team members.
• Must be able to attend meetings, events, and activities outside of regular business hours and on some weekends (e.g., meetings, events, emergencies or to meet deadlines).

Skills and Qualifications

Education and work experience

• Post-secondary degree, diploma or certificate in communications, public relations, journalism, or related business field.
• Minimum two to four years of professional experience in communications, media relations or public relations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), Web publishing applications (e.g., WordPress), and data analytics (e.g., Google Analytics or SiteImprove).
• Experience in municipal sector is preferred.
• Awareness and knowledge of municipal government, legislation, and regulations, including but not limited to, the Ontario Municipal Elections Act, the Municipal Elections Modernization Act, the Municipal Act, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, and the Education Act.

Communications-specific skills

• Familiar with Canadian Press Style.
• Ability to create tailored content for diverse audiences.
• Experience in creating, planning, and executing tactical communications plans with a proven track record of creativity and innovative thinking.
• Strong research, analytical, planning skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient in English with strong oral, reading, and writing skills.

Effective collaborator and team player

• Initiative-taking, proactive, flexible, and collaborative approach to work.
• Ability to solve problems and look for creative and viable solutions.
• Ability to prioritize, multitask and work to deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to display tact and diplomacy.