Director, Communications

The BCNU is one of the largest health care unions, providing service and advocacy for over 48,000 members, with over 180 employees. We’re seeking an experienced Director, Communications to join the BCNU team. This role is multifaceted, combining significant leadership and professional responsibilities.

Along with a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and an established pension plan, we offer a central, modern office, and a dynamic and growth culture committed to providing development opportunities. 

 Summary

As part of the senior management team, the Director, Communications (the “Director”) is responsible for creating and ensuring the implementation of a communication strategy externally and internally. The Director is also expected to work with other directors on various strategic initiatives and projects as required. Along with other leaders in the department, this position is responsible for leading, directing, and motivating staff within their department and/or within the organization.  The Director will be expected to contribute to the development of strategic campaigns for the organization.

The day-to-day management of this team is an important facet of the position, but the Director must balance this with providing strategic direction based on interactions with union members, Council, and staff.

Results are accomplished by:

• Planning, developing and constantly improving all communications to enhance member engagement and in response to the changing needs of the organization; serving as an in-house expert in communications
• Supporting staff in relation to writing and editing content for print and electronic vehicles
• Directing the work of consultants and contractors working on strategic priorities related to communication systems and special projects

Specific Accountabilities

Strategy:

• Developing and executing a comprehensive strategic communications plan (both external and internal) supporting the strategic directions and objectives of the Union.
• Working with other senior leaders in the organization to develop strategic campaigns.

Execution:

• Overall management and quality assurance related to website content ensuring all content is accurate and updated.
• Overall management and quality assurance related to the product the department produces.
• Directing the use of technology or other tools to ensure effective member outreach technologies and processes are employed, including but not limited to the use of the organization’s website.
• Establishes policy and oversees the use of social media within the organization.

Networks and influence:

• Communicating with elected officials, including BCNU Council.
• Works closely with other BCNU departments to create and maintain synergies across departments.
• Externally, the Director must build and maintain partnerships with communications teams within other healthcare unions in BC and nursing unions across Canada.
• Networking with other like organizations to determine best practices.

Subject matter expertise:

• Oversees the roll-out of effective traditional and digital campaigns and the use of social media to enhance engagement with members and the public.
• Directing, overseeing, and leading major initiatives of the organization, which may include overall responsibility for contractors and/or consultants retained for specific projects.

Leadership:

• Responsible for the effectiveness of staff within their department: in collaboration with other leaders in the department, where applicable, assessing workloads and establishing effective assignments; monitoring caseloads and response timelines; responding to member complaints about staff; arranging relief staffing; and approving overtime and leave requests.
• Participating in decision making around the overall goals of the organization. Hiring staff, conducting staff evaluations, and imposing discipline up to and including termination.
• Fostering a respectful work environment that supports the psychological and physical wellbeing of staff.

Mentorship:

• Provides mentorship and role-models the values of the organization to members of their team ensuring staff satisfaction, retention, and growth.
• May provide mentorship to other elected members or members in general (e.g., Stewards, Regional Executive).

Data and reporting:

• Assisting in the coordination of the annual Planning Session, and dissemination of plans to staff and members.
• Making recommendations to Council where necessary on matters within his/her jurisdiction.

Budget and financial:

• Participating in the annual budget preparation and mid-year budget review. Is responsible for the budget for their areas of responsibility.
• Participates extensively in the planning of the Annual Convention and may oversee other conferences held by the organization.

Candidate Qualifications

An equivalent combination of education and related experience may be considered.

Education and Professional Certifications

• A Master’s degree in Nursing, Communications, Business or Commerce, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience and Knowledge

• 7 to 10 years of experience in communications and campaigns management, preferably in the broader public sector or social service sector, including at least 3 years in leadership positions. Formal courses in conflict resolution would be an asset.
• Extensive knowledge of communication principles and practices, priorities and objectives related to print and digital communications, and the complexities of member outreach and media relations.
• Experience with media outlets and interviews as well as social media channels/platforms/tools.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading and managing high-performance teams.
• A proven track record of creating, developing, and executing strategic campaigns.
• An understanding of nursing culture.
• Knowledge of the structure of unions or non-profit organizations is preferred.
• Experience executing multiple complex projects at the same time.
• Financial literacy; ability to manage budgets.

Key Competencies

• Is a strategic thinker with the ability to improve communications, manage projects from concept to completion, maintaining quality standards and meeting Council and member expectations throughout.
• Is committed to working with leadership and in cross-functional teams.
• Professional and positive approach, self-motivated, dynamic, and creative.
• A robust and assertive individual combined with a collaborative mindset able to deal with the inherent complexity of the BCNU.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills; positive experience in dealing with all levels of an organization such as management, co-workers, support staff, Council, and members.
• Ability to build relationships between team members and elected officers of the BCNU.
• Ability to build networks and influence across the union, Employers, and other related stakeholders.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Sound judgement is required to translate broad directives and strategies into specific plans and actionable items.
• Ability to anticipate risks and plan mitigation strategies.
• Proven organizational skills, ability to effectively prioritize and work under pressure.
• An advocate for healthcare and/or social justice (ideally with experience in British Columbia).
• Willingness and ability to take responsibility for their programs in the context of organizational risk.
• Ability to travel as required.