Manager, Strategic Communications

Founded in 1887, McMaster University is a research-intensive, student-centered university dedicated to advancing human and societal health and well-being. It has achieved an international reputation as a centre of excellence for teaching and learning, innovation, and creativity. Currently, McMaster is home to more than 37,000 students, 13,000 staff and 1,000 full-time faculty.

As an institution, McMaster is committed to creating a brighter world for all. McMaster University is one of 27 Canadian institutions who have signed the Okanagan Charter, a commitment to integrating health and well-being into all aspects of campus life. McMaster University has been selected as a Hamilton-Niagara Top Employer for the past five consecutive years and has also been recognized as one of Canada's Best Diversity Employers over the last five years.

University Advancement at McMaster is an integrated department that encompasses the areas of Development, Alumni Engagement, Stewardship, Volunteer Engagement, Communications and Advancement Services & Operations; areas that coordinate their activities and work as a team to build relationships, reputation, and resources. It is our values that help us to achieve our vision and mission, Integrity, Quality, Respect, Service, Strategy and Teamwork.

Our vision: Together, we enable McMaster to advance human and societal health and well-being.

Our mission: Inspired by McMaster’s tradition of collaboration and innovation, we strengthen relationships, reputation, and resources in pursuit of our goal to be the best. University Advancement’s approach to realizing our mission and vision reflects these core values and principles: Integrity, Quality, Respect, Service, Strategy and Teamwork.

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Executive Director, Advancement Communications & Donor Relations, the Manager, Strategic Communications will build and preserve the University's reputation through a variety of internal and external advancement communication strategies and materials, including digital media. This position is responsible for planning, developing and implementing customized, proactive fundraising/advancement communications. This role collaborates regularly with colleagues in University Advancement, specifically Development and deals with confidential and highly sensitive information, issuing a variety of communications on behalf of the University. The Manager, Strategic Communications is a dynamic and experienced communicator, responsible for managing advancement communications on behalf of the University.

Accountabilities:

• Accountable for developing, implementing and maintaining creative and compelling University communication initiatives and materials for use in digital, print and broadcast environments
• Develops and implements communication strategies and materials that support University funding priorities and key audiences and partners
• Possesses superior writing and storytelling skills for the creation of materials such as funding proposals, white papers, concept documents, reports, presentations, personalized communications, etc.
• Develops a creative and comprehensive approach to digital communications, including skill in video storytelling and design
• Plans and produces some editorial content for the Daily News and Brighter World websites and other appropriate sites, and the official University social media platforms
• Works in a complex environment with multiple functions including examining, reviewing and assessing long-term goals as well as immediate needs for communications including digital media platforms
• Responsible for planning and evaluating communications to external and internal audiences
• Builds effective communication projects by linking and working with other leaders, units, and departments within the University
• Identify emerging communication trends and tools and position the University for success in these appropriate channels
• Requires sound judgment and decision-making abilities and a high level of confidentiality
• Plays a role in supporting the University' s crisis management team in times of emergency

Qualifications:

• Computer knowledge, with proven technical experience managing digital tools, including WordPress, Cold Fusion, social media analytics and social media tools
• Demonstrated success in areas of media relations, strategic internal and external communications and in all social media platforms
• Understanding of new media and evolving media environment
• Demonstrated exceptional research and writing skills
• Knowledge of electronic media and media monitoring systems
• Proven ability to create budgets and understand financial documents
• Excellent oral communication skills
• Proven ability to maintain confidentiality
• Sound judgment and independent decision-making abilities
• Ability to lead, supervise and direct staff
• Ability to lead project teams and/or effectively contribute to a team
• Strong project management skills
• Strong time management skills
• Must be knowledgeable about McMaster University policies and guidelines University Advancement policies and procedures

How To Apply:

To apply for this job, please submit your application online.

Employment Equity Statement:

McMaster University is located on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Mississauga Nations and within the lands protected by the “Dish With One Spoon” wampum agreement. The diversity of our workforce is at the core of our innovation and creativity and strengthens our research and teaching excellence. In keeping with its Statement on Building an Inclusive Community with a Shared Purpose, McMaster University strives to embody the values of respect, collaboration and diversity, and has a strong commitment to employment equity. The University seeks qualified candidates who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially welcomes applications from indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

Hybrid Work Language:

To ensure an ongoing and vibrant University community that meets the needs of our students, staff and faculty and supports the University mission, ability to work on-site continues to be a requirement for most University positions. The University is supportive of exploring flexible work arrangements that effectively balance operational needs and employee interests.

Interview Experience:

At McMaster University, we believe in a comprehensive and inclusive interview process. Our interview methods encompass a variety of approaches that allow our hiring teams to provide a flexible and accessible experience for engaging with our candidates. Throughout your recruitment process at McMaster, you may be requested to participate in a variety of formats, that may include in-person, virtual or recorded interviews. If you have any questions as you move through the hiring process, please reach out to [email protected] or the HR contact associated with your position of interest.