Manager, Communications

Reporting to the Director of Public Relations, the Manager of Communications will work alongside the Management team to enhance Calgary Humane Society’s profile and promote awareness of our mission, vision, values, programs, and services offered to the community.  This position supports the Director of Public Relations in the creation and development of an innovative marketing and communications strategy and is responsible for leading the Communications team in delivering objectives outlined in the plan. The successful candidate must be a collaborative team player with proven skills and expertise in communications, public relations, advertising, and marketing.

This is an onsite position, mainly working Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours per week. 

Duties:

• Lead and mentor the Communications team which consists of the Graphic Designer, Digital Content Producer, Communications Assistant, departmental volunteers, and practicum students.

• Oversee the recruitment, supervision, coaching, and development of a highly effective Communications team.  

• Develop and produce effective campaigns to support organizational strategies and initiatives with the intention of building brand awareness and promoting the various programs and services offered by Calgary Humane Society. 

• With the support of the Director, develop and implement an annual marketing and communications strategic plan and public relations plan to advance Calgary Humane Society’s brand and profile in the community.

• Work alongside the Community Outreach and Events team to Identify community events where CHS attendance would promote our profile and ensure proper representation of the Society.

• Coordinate production of Calgary Humane Society’s external and internal communication and promotion materials for various events, programs, and initiatives.

• Manage brand guidelines and elements and oversee brand development.

• Support the Director with various aspects of planning and coordinating media functions, including press conferences, press releases, Q&A’s, media standby statements, and responding to media inquiries.

• Serve as a support to CHS’ primary media spokespeople and on-air personalities to ensure media appearances are aligned with philosophies of the organization.   

• Represent CHS at public meetings and community events and build positive relationships between the organization and external stakeholders.

• Oversee and coordinate the creation and publication of promotional material and organizational highlights through appropriate media outlets.

• Provide support for the development of social media content and monitoring when required. 

• Working alongside CHS Manager and Directors, create innovative internal communication strategies.

• Support the Director of Public Relations and the Fund Development team with special events and fundraising activities.

• Coordinate with the Adoptions and Community Outreach teams to ensure promotion of adoptable animals and upcoming events.

• Analyze and evaluate data to determine effectiveness of communication related projects and initiatives and advise the Management team on recommendations to extend reach and increase impact.  

• Support members of the Communications team, serving as the editor of all online tools, including social media platforms, e-newsletters, website and internal communication tools.

• Collaborate with IT to optimize the use of digital communication vehicles.

• Manage and coordinate with consultants and vendors for production of materials.

• Work with Director and the Finance team to manage the communications operating budget.

• Conduct routine audits of Calgary Humane Society’s marketing and communications materials and activities to ensure effectiveness and reach to target audience.

• Oversee the efficient and effective tracking, recording, and archiving of all digital and had copy communications materials.

• Maintain permission requirements  for all information used to enhance Calgary Humane Society’s image, including photos, videos, quotes and other materials for publications, web or other online communications media.

• Ability to assume responsibilities of direct reports as required.

• Assist in other areas of the shelter during peak times, including the feeding, cleaning, and enrichment of animals. 

• Complete other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements: 

• Post-secondary degree or diploma in communications or public relations.

• Minimum of three years o  f relevant experience in communications, public relations, media relations (including on-air and print media), and public speaking. 

• Background in communications and marketing at a not-for-profit organization an asset.  

• Aptitude for strong decision-making and a strong capacity for critical thinking and problem-solving. 

• Proven experience creating and executing strategic communication plans and programs.

• Prior experience providing crisis communication and response.

• Demonstrated experience managing multiple social media platforms and using social media monitoring tools.

• Ability to manage multiple communications projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.

• Proven ability to build and maintain positive working relationships through collaboration and teamwork.  

• Ability to lead, coach, inspire and motivate others both internally and externally.  

• Solid understanding of metrics and analytics.

• Flexibility to work outside of regular business hours, including some evenings, weekends, statutory holidays, attendance at special events, and responding to media inquiries after hours.

• Minimum two years of professional experience leading a team of two or more. 

• Superior oral and written communication skills.

• Experience in graphic design or website development an asset.

• Proficiency in InDesign, Adobe, Photoshop.

• Must be able to provide a clean driver’s abstract with at least 3 years driving experience with a Class 5 Driver’s License.

• Physically capable of and comfortable working with and handling a variety of species including but not limited to: cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, rodents, and reptiles.

• Successful candidate will be required to provide a criminal record check at their own expense, to be arranged by CHS.

Annual Salary:

Commensurate with education and experience 

Benefits & Perks:

• 100% employer paid health and dental benefits for employees and their dependents

• Wellness Spending Account

• Vision coverage

• Paid vacation, sick time, wellness days, and paid day off on your birthday

• Matching RSP

• Professional development opportunities

• Discounts on CHS products and services, including adoption fees

• Access to Employee and Family Assistance Program

• Access to reduced rate counseling services

• A commitment to accessibility and accommodations for different needs

Please visit our careers page to see more job opportunities.