Communications Specialist, International Mobility Programs

Universities Canada is the voice of Canadian universities, at home and abroad. We are a membership organization providing university presidents with a unified voice for higher education, research and innovation. Universities Canada advances the mission of our member institutions to transform lives, strengthen communities and find solutions to the most pressing challenges facing our world.

We are seeking a Communications Specialist, International Mobility Programs for a short-term contract to provide seamless coverage for an absence. This role requires an experienced professional who can quickly integrate and maintain continuity of our established communications strategies and ongoing campaigns. The incumbent will lead content development and strategy; develop & execute existing communications strategies, adapt content for scholarship programs, create timely and engaging communication materials including media advisories, newsletters, speaking notes, and website updates, as well as manage content distribution across events, social media, and digital platforms.

The incumbent will serve as primary communications contact for internal teams and external program partners, coordinate workshops, forums, information sessions, promotional campaigns, and act as program spokesperson when required.

Ideal profile

Given the short-term nature of this role, we’re looking for a seasoned communications professional who can:

• Hit the ground running with minimal onboarding time;
• Adapt quickly to existing systems, processes, and stakeholder relationships;
• Work independently while maintaining established quality standards;
• Manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Education and experience

• An undergraduate degree in communication, marketing, journalism, public relations or another related field.
• A minimum of four years of relevant communication experience.
• Experience with digital, web, social and traditional media platform management and analytics.
• Experience with communication and marketing tools such as search engine optimization, email marketing, mass email software, Google Adwords, video editing and content management systems.
• Experience working with WordPress, Canva, Adobe InDesign, Photoshop and Premiere Pro is an asset.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of Canadian post-secondary education sector is required.
• Knowledge of current trends in communications, branding, data visualization, storytelling etc.
• Knowledge of international mobility is an asset.

Aptitudes

• Accomplished writer with a strong ability to develop compelling content for diverse audiences across various platforms.
• Excellent written, presentation and oral communication skills in English and French (bilingual imperative).
• Ability to develop and implement effective communications strategies and campaigns.
• Ability to analyze data and produce accurate reports to support decision making.
• Ability to work effectively in a matrix environment.
• Excellent relationship management and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with digital workspaces, online collaboration tools and applications.
• High degree of judgment, tact and discretion.

The position is based in Ottawa. Universities Canada has adopted a hybrid work model where employees are expected to work in the office a minimum of two days a week.

The salary range for this position starts at $78,807 depending on experience. Candidates who do not meet all of the position requirements may be considered in an underfill capacity, in which case the candidate would be hired at a lower level than the position level.

Interested candidates are asked to email their curriculum vitae and a cover letter to the Human Resources service, Universities Canada at [email protected]. This posting will remain open until position is filled.