Description
New Westminster Schools is seeking an experienced, strategic, self-motivated, organized, creative, collaborative and dynamic communications professional. Reporting directly to the Superintendent of Schools, the Communications Manager plays a vital role in supporting the ongoing work of the District, Board of Education and all members of our school communities, as we work together to deliver on our key commitments and priorities.
About New Westminster Schools
As one of the fastest growing districts in Metro-Vancouver, we are working hard to support a diverse and very connected community of students, staff and families throughout our schools. We currently have eight elementary schools, three middle schools, one high school, three alternate programs, two Provincial Online Learning options (a teacher-guided Home Learners Program for K-8 and Online Learning options for 9-12), and continuing education options. For the younger learners we also offer a combination of StrongStart programs, childcare options and a pilot pre-school.
We are passionate about innovation, as we strive to create learning opportunities and environments that support and inspire all students, staff and families in our community. Through collaboration we are transforming learning experiences, to ensure that New Westminster Schools is a place where everyone loves to learn.
Our district is deeply commitment to building meaningful relationships, as we work to address the barriers that some people in our school communities face. This includes actively working to address issues around diversity, inclusion, equity, anti-racism, mental health and wellbeing, and food security for students and families.
About the position
Under the direction and in partnership with the Superintendent of Schools, the Communications Manager creates, implements, and executes on communication strategies that deliver leading-edge communications advice, products, and experiences, in support of the district and its many stakeholder groups. The position is the lead liaison between the district and the media, and will manage school district strategic communication plans, oversee its media and online presence, and facilitate the understanding and achievement of the district’s priorities, goals, and objectives. Specific responsibilities include:
• Provides a range of communications expertise, advice and support on internal and external communications planning, strategies, and policies.
• Articulates and demonstrates an understanding of key district strategic priorities, in communications documents and other products.
• Develops key message frameworks and content to support clear, consistent, and on-message communication products.
• Creates written communications content and support, to be used in media releases, website content, and promotional materials.
• Leads media relations for the district and Board of Education
• Manages regular oversite and updates to the district, school, and program-based websites (WordPress).
• Directs and manages communications during emergencies and other urgent events, when needed.
• Oversees and ensures consistent use and application of branding – including in the development and distribution of templates, reports, signage, and more.
• Creates, captures, and produces visually engaging content, including in photography, design, and video where required.
• Content creation, curation and monitoring of all district social media channels.
• Manages all advertising and promotions over paid channels.
• Maintains and foster relationships with the community, external agencies, and partners. Including examining community consultation opportunities.
• Works with internal and external stakeholders or suppliers, to evaluate the effective use and merits of communications tools, products, and channels.
• Serves as contact person for matters relating to the BC Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) and ensures all FIPPA/FOI requests are responded to in a timely manner.
• Ensures adherence to copyright law.
About the candidate
• Superior interpersonal, communication, research, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experienced in strategic or key message development, with excellent writing skills that can be adapted to channel, audience and situation.
• Strong relationship building skills and a leadership style that is open and transparent with a commitment to a ‘can do’ approach.
• A communications generalist, with a collaborative style, a broad understanding of communication best practices, and the ability to produce or direct the production of required communications products.
• Advanced ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet time sensitive deadlines.
Specific candidate qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or relevant post-secondary education.
• Minimum of five years of experience working at a management or senior level, preferably in a public sector or large complex organization.
• Considerable experience working with Adobe Creative Suite products and web design applications.
Salary Range: Minimum $88,372 / Maximum $110,465
Application process
To apply for this position, visit Make a Future at: https://bit.ly/45LTT7G. Please include your resume, including copies of certificates or diplomas and references.
Note: Faxed resumes will not be accepted. The successful applicant will be required to consent to a Criminal Records Search prior to employment. New Westminster Schools values the time you have taken to submit your application; however, only those applicants selected to move forward will be contacted. To all others, thank you for your interest.
The New Westminster School District recognizes and acknowledges the Qayqayt First Nation, as well as all Coast Salish peoples, on whose traditional and unceded territories we live, we learn, we play and we do our work.
New Westminster Schools welcomes and encourages applications from women, visible minorities, indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, any gender identity or gender expression. If you require an accommodation through our hiring process, please include your request in the application email to equity@sd40.bc.ca.
This position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found, however applications received prior to September 6, 2023, will be assured of full consideration.
QUESTIONS: Candidates who have questions are invited to contact Superintendent, Karim Hachlaf at 604.517.6328 or khachlaf@sd40.bc.ca.
