Communications Specialist

Michael Smith Health Research BC

Michael Smith Health Research BC, funded by the Government of British Columbia, is BC’s health research agency. We strengthen the province’s health research system by supporting the people, institutions and activities that generate and use research-based knowledge to promote, restore and maintain the health of British Columbians. Our ambition is to inspire and connect curious, creative and passionate minds to drive discovery and innovation in health research. And we’re driven by the belief that health-related decision making should be informed by high quality research produced in an equitable, diverse and inclusive research system.

We are a team of dedicated professionals who care deeply about each other and our work. We believe in embracing diversity as a strength and core value, creating spaces that are inclusive of all peoples, and are grounded in our ongoing commitment to reconciliation and respect for Indigenous self-determination. We value and support a diverse workforce, reflective of different backgrounds, skillsets, perspectives and life experiences.

Our benefits package includes a pension plan, generous dental and health insurance and a wellness allowance; our professional development policy supports learning and growth.

We have a hybrid work model. When you are in the office, our beautiful space offers views of False Creek, an outdoor patio (think summer BBQs!) and a fitness centre, and it’s walking distance to restaurants and other amenities. Our social committee, Team Good Times, organizes events throughout the year.

If you are looking for meaningful work in a supportive environment, and you are inspired by making a difference in BC’s exceptional health research community, read on to learn more.

Position Summary

At Health Research BC, we take a team-based approach to achieving success across all communications disciplines. Specialists are expected to support multiple areas of practice and this role focuses on writing, planning and content development for all research initiatives and external relations activities. The writing focus will be critical as will the ability to translate strategy into narrative impact. The reporting Manager, Communications provides strategic oversight for these areas and will assign priorities to ensure internal client and external facing priorities are achieved.

The Specialist, Communications is part of the communications team that plays a critical role in creating and implementing communications plans that engage and expand target audiences, demonstrate outcomes and impacts of our programs, and position Health Research BC as a leader in BC’s life sciences sector. The specialist provides communications leadership, support and advice to various teams and portfolios to accomplish the organization’s goals and objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Serves as communications lead for portfolios of work as assigned by the manager. This requires demonstrating communications leadership, relationship building and collaboration with internal teams.
• Develops communications strategies and provides communications expertise for the portfolios of work noted above, ensuring clear and consistent messaging that demonstrates Michael Smith Health Research BC’s strategic directions.
• Supports the Manager, Communications with maintaining organizational reputation including issues management and mitigating reputational risk by conducting research and developing messages in response to emerging issues.
• Builds relationships with external communications colleagues and stakeholders, showcasing the outcomes and impacts of Health Research BC and Health Research BC-funded researchers.
• Uses strategic storytelling to showcase the impact of Health Research BC including brand journalism to position Health Research BC as a leader in BC’s life sciences sector.
• Leads the production of content that supports organizational priorities.
• Works collaboratively with the digital communications team to execute related communications campaigns and tactics aligned with organization goals and objectives.
• Supports the Director, External Relations and Vice President, External Relations with government relations, external relations, and corporate communications initiatives.
• Ensures equity, diversity and inclusion and the principles of Indigenous reconciliation are represented in all strategies, campaigns and materials.
  
  

Requirements

• A post-secondary degree in communications, journalism, public relations or related discipline.
• Four years’ experience in a communications role where content creation and writing have been a strong focus.
• Working knowledge of the health research system in BC.
• Work experience in research, not-for-profit or health care settings is an asset.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills, with a demonstrated ability to write for a range of audiences and to translate complicated scientific concepts into interesting and engaging content. Superior editing and proofreading skills, with an impeccable eye for detail and accuracy.
• The ability to understand translate and narrate strategic goals and objectives and align plans and activities to achieve those goals and objectives.
• Experience with creating and implementing strategic and tactical communications plans, including delivering of tactics (such as use of videos, social media, e-newsletters, etc.)
• Project management experience, including responsibility for developing project plans and timelines, and managing external suppliers or contractors.
• Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite and multimedia practices are assets.
• Ability to exercise tact and discretion when handling sensitive and/or confidential matters.
• Solid time management skills, with ability to identify priorities, complete multiple tasks and deliver results on deadline without close supervision.
• Committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and Indigenous reconciliation; training and/or experience in equity, diversity, and inclusion and/or Indigenous cultural safety is an asset.
  
  

How to Apply

If this sounds like you and you would like to play a role in maximizing the impact of health research in BC, please submit your resume and cover letter online at healthresearchbc.ca/about/careers/. We thank everyone for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.