Position Summary
The Director of Communications, Marketing and Alumni Relations is responsible for developing and driving communications, marketing and alumni relations strategies that directly contribute to the promotion and enhancement of the University of Regina's reputation. As a key resource to the President and senior management, the Director works to raise the visibility of the University and strengthen the institution's core narratives, key messaging and brand ideals with key stakeholders. The Director develops strategies to engage alumni and designs communications programs and services to strengthen relationships with University of Regina alumni.

Nature of the Work
The Director of Communications, Marketing and Alumni Relations reports to the President of the University. Responsible for determining staffing needs, recruiting, hiring and training employees, conducting performance reviews and taking corrective action when necessary. Handles labour relations matters specific to the Communications, Marketing and Alumni Relations programs/groups. Key activities include alumni communication, internal communication, public relations and marketing.

The Director of Communications provides timely and innovative responses to continuous shifts in University policy and direction. Brings a strong analytical capability to the function and the skill required to work with the complexities of issues within and outside the University environment. Deals with emerging and unpredictable events in a time sensitive and timely manner. This requires relationship building, highly developed judgment calls and discretionary decision making. Manages competing interests across campus with satisfactory outcomes. Prepares complex submissions and proposals. The work is high-volume and complex, and decisions ranging from the routine to the critical are required on a regular basis. A high level of concentration is required for continuous planning, and for dealing with multiple projects with competing priorities. Professional judgment is used to review own and others' work, and when providing expert counsel. Mental stress may vary depending on the complexity of assignments and conflict related to problem solving.

Specific Accountabilities

1. Is responsible for the overall management of the unit, including the development of a strategic plan, work plans and performance development plans for staff.
2. Makes recommendations for effective and innovative communication strategies to the President and Executive Team on issues and events affecting the University.
3. Is an effective high level resource to senior administration and the University community.
4. Develops and implements emergency communications strategies to deal with emergent issues.
5. Develops thoughtful strategic plans and provides advice to internal University contacts for interaction with stakeholders.
6. Builds and maintains collaborative relationships that support the gathering and sharing of information.
7. Develops and delivers timely and valuable communications on University activities, achievements, needs, concerns and proposals.
8. Provides practical advice on tactical approaches to communicating decisions, e.g. budgetary shifts, disciplinary actions.
9. Promotes and enables the success of direct reports and through them the communications function at the University.
10. Interprets and implements policies, procedures and collective agreements.
11. Maintains compliance with regulatory and legislative requirements (e.g. OH&S, WHMS, workplace practices).
12. Continuously monitors the University's communications performance, evaluating and developing policies and procedures to support best practices as required.

Requirements

• A degree in communications, marketing, public relations, business administration or a related discipline; and
• Several years of progressive experience in the communications and marketing management field, most recently at the senior advisor level; or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Accreditation by the Canadian Public Relations Society or the International Association of Business Communicators is preferred.
• Experience in the management of the communications and marketing function.
• Experience in management of human resources and financial resources.
• Experience advising senior officials on communications implications.