Communications Specialist, College of Medicine

Communications Specialist, College of Medicine

Nature of Work: The Communications Specialist will report directly to the Finance and Administration Manager in the Department of Medicine and will work very closely with the Provincial Department Head and Director of Communications. The specialist will be required to work collaboratively with faculty and staff within the college and university, as well with a broad range of external stakeholders who are situated in multiple sites across the province, including students, alumni, donors, government, health regions, health organizations and community and international partners.

The position involves considerable judgment and discretionary decision-making in the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of internal and external communications initiatives that are designed to help the department achieve its goals and build positive relations and profile internally, locally, provincially, nationally and internationally. The work requires a proactive and strategic approach in a complex environment and the ability to communicate effectively to a diverse audience through a variety of methods and communication mediums. Establishing and maintaining positive relationships is essential to success.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

• Conceive, develop, implement and evaluate comprehensive communications, marketing and public relations strategies that support the priorities of the Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and the U of S.
• Produce an annual report and support strategic planning within the department.
• Develop and implement internal communications strategies that address the needs of faculty, staff, students and other internal stakeholders.
• Develop and implement external communications strategies to showcase and share achievements and successes with supporters, partners, media, and members of the public.
• Working together with central university and college supports, oversee the media relations activities and issues management portfolio for the Department of Medicine.
• Lead specific communications projects such as, but not limited to: writing, editing, event coordination and promotion, development of publications and print materials, website and online communications, social media, etc.
• Monitor and measure the effectiveness of those communications plans.
• Is aware of evolving or changing news and strategic communications best practices and provides suggestions for how to incorporate those practices into their work.
• Assist the Department Head and department leadership with other initiatives and events as needed.

Education: An undergraduate degree in communications, marketing, journalism, public relations or a related discipline. An equivalent level of education and experience may be considered.

Experience: Experience in communication in a post-secondary environment, health environment or similarly complex organization is required. A demonstrated progression in level of responsibility, including developing and implementing strategic communications plans is essential. Knowledge of the University of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan healthcare system would be an asset. Experience working and collaborating in a diverse environment is required.

Skills: Thorough understanding of communications principles and strategies, and proven experience in applying them and achieving results; ability to work independently and collaboratively; effective interpersonal communications and the capacity to build consensus and maintain positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, exercising confidentiality, diplomacy, judgment and tact; demonstrated strong leadership, analytical and organizational skills, including the effective planning and management of multiple projects and events; ability to problem-solve, think and act strategically and creatively; excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, including public speaking; self-motivation and reliability; high level of proficiency in computer applications (MS Office and Sharepoint), time management and the ability to handle multiple deadlines; photography skills would be an asset.

Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Lindsay Doig at 306-844-1129.

Department: Medicine
Status: Permanent
Employment Group: ASPA
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 0.5
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $52,050.00 - 81,328.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable): Specialist Professional
Salary Phase/Band: Phase 1
Posted Date: 1/3/2025
Closing Date: 1/17/2025 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus

The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where 'Yes' is indicated below. Further information is available at: https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php

Criminal Record Check: Not Applicable
Driver's License and Abstract Check: Not Applicable
Education/Credential Verification: Yes
Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable

The University is committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion, and are proud to support career opportunities for Indigenous peoples to reflect the community we serve. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodations to those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require an accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation. The University of Saskatchewan’s main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.