Communications Specialist
Saskatoon, SK | 18-month term, Full time
Our Company
Innovation Saskatchewan supports Saskatchewan’s research community and technology sector to create economic growth and diversity. As the central innovation agency for the Government of Saskatchewan, Innovation Saskatchewan is responsible for implementing the province's innovation priorities and growing the technology sector. Innovation Saskatchewan develops policies and programs and conducts activities that assist in the implementation of research & development, science, and technology for the province. This includes development and operation of Saskatchewan’s research and technology parks in Saskatoon and Regina.
The Opportunity
Writing is about weaving a story that resonates with your audience while balancing the strategies of search engine optimization and the art of finding the simplest words and sentences to convey an idea. If this concept connects with you, you may be the next addition to Innovation Saskatchewan’s Communications and Marketing team!
Innovation Saskatchewan is in search of a Communications Specialist to serve an 18-month term (backfill). Reporting to the Executive Director of Communications and Marketing, the Communications Specialist works with internal and external stakeholders within the innovation ecosystem to create content that resonates with target audiences. The role is crucial in driving the agency’s goals through copywriting and communications strategies.
This position requires a detail-oriented and deadline-driven individual who thrives in a collaborative environment where great things are possible. There’s no shortage of variety: One week you may be helping prepare media packages for an exciting announcement and the next you’ll be writing a feature blog and social posts featuring researchers or technology entrepreneurship in Saskatchewan. Regardless of the activity, the Communications Specialist is laser-focused on ensuring each initiative aligns with and advances the agency's strategic objectives, reinforcing Innovation Saskatchewan's commitment to innovation and growth. It also enjoys the support of the Senior Manager of Communications and Executive Director of Communications and Marketing working together with experts on the team and across the organization on the successful execution of meaningful projects.
Primary Responsibilities
Duties include but are not limited to:
- Collaborating with the Senior Manager of Communications and the Executive Director of Communications and Marketing to develop and execute communication plans that align with strategic goals
- Collaborating with external and internal stakeholders on the creation of various communications materials, including feature stories, social media content, monthly newsletters, job ads, website and app content, speeches, news releases, backgrounders, employee articles, presentations and print collateral
- Maintaining and managing key communications calendars related to editorial planning and social media, including collaborating with other departments about potential feature topics, upcoming programs promotions and ecosystem events
- Collaborating with Events & Sponsorship Specialist and Marketing Specialist on promotion schedule, including event photos, sponsorship support and social media planning
- Recording and analyzing analytics to measure engagement and the success of communication strategies
- Other duties as assigned
What We Want from You
- Proven ability to develop original content in alignment with strategic communications best practices.
- Passion to seek out and share stories from new angles and diverse perspectives
- Ability to develop and maintain community-building relationships through confident social skills and strong communications skills
- Advanced-level copywriting abilities.
- Demonstrated ability to execute strategies and objectives effectively.
- Initiative-driven and self-motivated attitude.
- Strong verbal and written communication and collaboration capabilities.
- Unwavering integrity and ethical decision-making skills.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Dedication to fostering a flexible and supportive work environment.
- Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft 365.
- Working knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO), website CMS, social media and newsletter best practices and social media and newsletter management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, MailChimp)
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism or 4+ years of commensurate experience
What We Offer
Innovation Saskatchewan employees enjoy a comprehensive suite of benefits, including extended health, dental and vision care as well as comprehensive life and protection insurance. Our Public Employees Pension Plan includes a generous employer contribution, underlining our commitment to your long-term financial security.
Enjoy the work-life balance afforded by paid Scheduled Days Off each year, alongside a starting vacation entitlement of three weeks (with acknowledgment of prior service within the Saskatchewan Government or universities). Innovation Saskatchewan’s Saskatoon office is in the beautiful Galleria Building within its Innovation Place research and technology park, centrally located on the University of Saskatchewan campus which includes parking as well as free access to a fitness centre and other perks afforded to park tenants.
At Innovation Saskatchewan, we offer more than position; we provide a pathway to growth and well-being.
How to Apply
If you have what it takes to support us in growing Saskatchewan’s tech sector, please send your resume, cover letter and links to three writing samples to careers@innovationsask.ca by July 12, 2024.
