Description
About our team
We are a valued team of storytellers who are a driving force in creating the best possible experience for our patients. Our communications team is integral to our organization. You will work alongside health care providers and research leaders known around the world for treatment, innovation and care. Being a trusted leader regarding highly complex issues and projects will keep you busy.
About you
We are looking for a team leader who will be:
- A savvy member of a large, complex organization – skilled in working in a matrix environment, collaborative in building relationships, and smart in knowing how to prioritize competing interests and requests.
- A self-starter who takes initiative to creatively identify and execute media and social media opportunities, respond quickly to issues, and advise on effective messages, versus awaiting direction.
- A supportive team player who views their role as helping and enabling their colleagues’ success, as much as securing support for their own.
- An effective storyteller who can put our best foot forward in identifying stories and managing issues.
Role summary
Reporting to the Director, Agency and External Communications, you are responsible for developing, implementing and evaluating strategic internal and external communication plans for various programs and initiatives at BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services, part of the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA). A strategic thinker, you ensure a positive corporate identity and provide counsel to staff on managing sensitive issues.
Key accountabilities
- Ensure the focus of BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services’ internal and external communications demonstrates excellence in patient care, education, research, prevention and partnerships.
- Provide strategic expertise and guidance on communications planning and facilitation, media relations, social media and websites, writing, editing and producing consistent and high-quality communication materials.
- Execute strategic internal communications and employee engagement programs and initiatives.
- Lead issues management on sensitive operational matters and those that are of interest to patients, media and the public.
- Work with key staff, leaders and PHSA executives to support change internally and oversee the implementation of corporate identity strategies.
- Provide advice and media coaching for spokespeople, including executive and operational leaders.
- Ensure communication balances the duty of public disclosure, while operating in an environment with a high degree of regulatory protection of patient confidentiality and privacy.
- Lead and mentor communications officers to develop and ensure best processes and practices.
- Develop and maintain relationships and coordinate with research institutes and other associated groups.
- Contribute to the overall communications leadership of PHSA in conjunction with other senior communications staff.
- Any other duties related to the role that may arise.
Qualifications and experience
- A level of education, training, and experience equivalent to a university degree in communications, journalism or a related field supplemented by seven years of experience in a large, multi-site, unionized environment.
- Demonstrated ability to research and write creative and compelling copy for a variety of applications, including online and print publications. Experience in multi-media storytelling, including social media and video production.
- Demonstrated ability to create and execute strategic communication plans, and to respond to the needs of stakeholders in sensitive situations supported by acute awareness of the impact of actions.
- Demonstrated knowledge of legislative policy development and processes of various levels of government, ability to meet tight deadlines, work under pressure, and handle highly confidential and sensitive issues with tact and diplomacy.
In accordance with the Mission, Vision and Values, and strategic directions of PHSA, the other BC Health Authorities (HAs) and the BC Ministry of Health, safety, including both patient and employee safety, is a priority and responsibility shared by everyone, and as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.
About BC Mental Health & Substance Use Services
BC Mental Health & Substance Use Services (BCMHSUS), part of the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA), provides specialized health care services to individuals across BC with complex needs – including severe and persistent mental health and substance use issues. BCMHSUS works with regional health authorities, community partners and government to ensure the delivery of consistent, safe, quality care across the province. BCMHSUS leads knowledge exchange, health promotion and health literacy across the continuum of care.
About PHSA
The Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) plans, manages and evaluates selected specialty and province-wide health care services across BC, working with the five geographic health authorities to deliver province-wide solutions that improve the health of British Columbians. For more information, visit www.phsa.ca
We invite you to apply by clicking the link below and then the "Apply Online Now" button where you can register for the first time or enter your Username and Password in order to re-access your profile on our system.
For more information on all that the PHSA has to offer, please visit: http://careers.phsa.ca
PHSA is committed to employment equity and hires on the basis of merit. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities.
