Director of Communications and Media Relations

This position is ideally suited for a detail-oriented, strategic thinking, nimble professional with strong written and verbal communication skills who is experienced and interested in municipal government and politics and understands the importance of using a social justice and equity lens in city building.

We are looking for someone who is a problem solver, customer service-minded, well-organized, and detail-oriented.

Objective

To assist the City Councillor in effectively communicating their work to their constituents and the general public, acting as their spokesperson, and handling media relations.

Responsibilities:

• Maintains a thorough and continuous awareness of corporate initiatives and Council policies in order to keep the Councillor and their constituents informed and up-to-date on issues.
• Maintains and regularly updates the Councillor and #x27;s website and social media channels.
• Prepares and publishes electronic newsletters on a regular basis.
• Prepares and processes printing and distribution of constituency newsletters as well as other mailings as necessary.
• Prepares speeches and statements for the Councillor as necessary.
• Prepares media advisories and press releases, and organizes press conferences for the Councillor as necessary.
• Prepares articles, columns, and letters to the editor for local and mainstream print media.
• Assists with organizing and promoting community meetings and events.
• Represents the Councillor at meetings with City staff, constituents, community organizations and associations, and special event functions. Communicates the Councillor s position and obtains support for that position at these meetings if necessary. Also accompanies the Councillor to required meetings providing assistance and advice.
• Maintains a database of the Councillor s contacts.
• Prepares and coordinates general presentation material and/or speeches for the Councillor when necessary.
• Maintains awareness of ward, community and city-wide municipal matters, and other matters affecting the municipality, the Councillor and their constituents.
• Maintains confidentiality with respect to issues involving the City and the Councillor, and adheres to the City s Conflict of Interest Policy.
• Undertakes special assignments as requested by the Councillor.

Knowledge and amp; Experience:

• College diploma or University degree in a related field, or equivalent experience, with 1-3 years experience in communications, project management, or as a political staffer.
• Highly developed verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present complex information to a variety of audiences.
• Strong capacity for research, analysis and synthesis of detailed information.
• Understanding of the Toronto political landscape and pressing issues, such as housing, public health, transit, social services, equity and social justice.
• Knowledge of City of Toronto divisions, services and constituency reporting processes.
• Advanced knowledge of project management, relationship management and constituency services.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to work with assignments demanding critical judgement, analytical thinking and creative problem-solving.
• Available to work evenings and occasional weekends as required.
• Ability to work within a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment and meet tight deadlines.
• Proficiency and experience working in a computerized environment.
• Residing within Ward 13 - Toronto Centre is an asset.

Compensation

$65,000 $70,000 per year

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Extended health care
• Paid time off
• Vision care

Hours and amp; Location:

The position is a fixed-term, full-time contract - 35 hours per week, not including occasional evenings and weekends (which will be counted as lieu time) - starting on November 15, 2022 until the end of the term in November 2026. The position will be based out of Toronto City Hall located at 100 Queen Street West.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning immediately. We thank all interested applicants; however, only those candidates being considered for an interview will be contacted.