Duties:

As part of the Communications and Public Engagement Office in University Relations, play an integral role in advancing the exciting and dynamic public image of Vancouver Island University. This includes highlighting the achievements of VIU's students, faculty, employees and supporters, as well as its high quality learning environment, research excellence, and active engagement in the community.

Develop and contribute to communication plans for a range of university initiatives as directed by University Relations managers; work closely with VIU faculties, departments, and regional campuses/centres on communications activities; make recommendations for new story ideas to promote VIU people, programs and partnerships; and prepare and distribute news releases, backgrounders and website content to enhance the reputation of VIU and attract students and community partners to the institute.

Maintain the University's online news page, Inside VIU; respond to media inquiries on routine matters and refer special or more sensitive issues to University Relations managers; develop positive working relationships with reporters, producers, photographers, videographers, and communications staff with government and community partners; write, edit and proofread content for publications; take, edit, distribute and archive photographs for news stories; and work with the Videographer/Social Media Writer to develop content to support VIU's website and social media presence.

Manage communications projects such as institutional publications in collaboration with other units such as Strategic Marketing; Advancement and Alumni Relations; Strategic Enrollment Management and Human Resources; provide communications support to managers and other staff responsible for University events and activities; and prepare speaking notes as directed for senior managers for regular and special events.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field such as journalism, creative writing, communication, public relations or English from an accredited institution; minimum five years' experience in the communications and/or public relations field with extensive experience in writing and editing in a public sector environment. An acceptable combination of education and experience may be considered.

Proven experience in media relations, social media, editing publications as well as successfully completing writing projects for a large public sector organization; recent, relevant experience creating communication plans, developing key messages, and successfully managing projects for print/online publications; proficiency in handling digital photo equipment, photo editing, and desktop publishing.

Strong interpersonal skills; ability to work both independently and in a team, and to deal with the pressures of multiple deadlines in a shifting operational environment. Able to work evenings and weekends when required.

Must possess a valid Class 5 BC Driver's Licence and have a confirmed satisfactory driving record (as specified in Vancouver Island University policy and procedures).

Posting Period: April 19, 2017 - May 04, 2017