Communications & Media Relations Specialist

Posted on: Jun 30, 2025

Posted by: Strathcona County

Summary

The Communications and Media Relations Specialist will develop and implement strategic communication plans that support high-profile programs and services within Strathcona County. This position works as a key member of a strategic team of communications professionals responsible for providing robust corporate communications services within a centre-led model.

This position will serve both internal and external audiences, providing essential communications solutions for a variety of organizational, divisional and departmental initiatives. The primary focus will be to build awareness and understanding of County policies, programs and services. The successful incumbent will lead media management efforts, including monitoring news stories affecting the County, drafting media inquiry responses and establishing and overseeing the newsroom. Additionally, the role will focus on growing awareness of Strathcona County through unpaid media channels, leveraging opportunities to enhance the County’s visibility and engagement with the community.

Key Responsibilities

Develop strategic communications and marketing plans for corporate services departments that support effective communication to intended audiences – establishing goals, objectives, audiences, key messages, tactics and evaluation metrics
Write and edit for a variety of mediums, including print, web, social media, advertising, presentations, news releases and speaking notes, reflecting the established themes and key messages
Review or conduct research related to demographics, participation trends, surveys, web analytics, media coverage and issues identification to inform strategy and grow awareness of the County
Serve as the primary media contact, handling media inquiries and drafting potential responses, building and maintaining strong relationships with key media contacts including journalists, editors and influencers
Identify, assess and mitigate risks and issues, and recommend effective solutions to safeguard the organization reputation, coordinate and manage press conferences, media briefing and interviews to effectively communicate key messages
Provide support during an emergency incident or crisis, including participating in the Emergency Operations Centre and PIO (Public Information Officer) on-call phone rotation

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or post-secondary diploma in communications, public relations or a related discipline
At least 5-7 years of experience working in a communications role, with demonstrated expertise and experience in communications services
Media management and media monitoring experience
Membership in a communications professional association is an asset (e.g. IABC, CPRS)
Government and/or political experience is an asset
Working knowledge of graphic design and layout would be an asset (graphic design software and photography/image editing skills)
Excellent planning, organizational, project management, written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work under time restraints and adapt to changing job priorities
Solid understanding of communications principles and practices within the field, and of Strathcona County communication policies, guidelines and protocols
Strong practice of plain language writing and editing
Strong proficiency in a computer environment (i.e. Microsoft Office Suite, web content and database software) and ability to make best use of technology
Strong knowledge of commercial printing and standards to efficiently produce quality and cost effective promotional pieces
Strong interpersonal skills and team qualities, ability to work with confidence and collaboratively with others throughout the organization to share communications expertise

Job Type

Full time

Employer Contact

No employer contact listed.

Salary Range

$86,577.40 - $108,180.80

Closing Date

July 20, 2025

Posting ID: 33017

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