ABOUT US
Almost 1.2 million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest regions in Canada – and the fastest growing with a population that’s expected to grow to more than 2 million by 2041. Our geography, which is comprised of about 1,800 square kilometers over nine different municipalities, is as beautiful, interesting and diverse as our people. Local government is organized in a two-tier structure and we work together with our local municipalities to provide residents and businesses access to a broad selection of services and resources.
WHAT WE OFFER
Consistently named one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes, we offer a collaborative, progressive workplace that takes pride in our organizational culture and is committed to living The 13 Factors of Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace – aligned with our vision to create strong, caring and safe communities both within and outside our walls.
- Defined Benefit Pension Program - With the Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) defined benefit pension plan, you can confidently retire knowing that you will have income for life. Eligibility from date of hire as a full-time employee and includes employer-matched contributions.
- Employer of Choice - Recognized as the highest-ranking government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations.
- Benefits and Wellness - Employees and their loved ones have access to a comprehensive employer-paid benefits plan that includes extended health, dental and life insurance, access to a 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program and corporate discounts and purchase plans for day-to-day products and services.
- Inclusive and Diverse Workforce - We’re committed to fostering an environment that celebrates all dimensions of diversity and ensures everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. Our robust Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility program continues to grow, and has been recognized by the United Nations and many other organizations for our leadership.
ABOUT THE ROLE
This position is responsible for managing components related to the implementation of large-scale complex projects supporting the YorkNet initiatives within the Region; overseeing, developing and implementing the delivery of YorkNet’s communications strategies, engagement plans, and related activities including event planning, social media, and issues management, in partnership and consultation with other departments as appropriate, to improve awareness of YorkNet services. This position develops and delivers a strategic communications plan that supports the achievement of YorkNet’s objectives in partnership with departmental management and leadership teams and promotes awareness of YorkNet programs and services to the organization, external partners, residents and businesses.
WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING
- Collaborates with high-profile community stakeholders and external partners and follows the corporate strategic leadership, planning and direction related to this function.
- Oversees the development and delivery of engagement plans and communication strategies for YorkNet; provides direction to others in dissemination of communication materials.
- Provides communications and engagement-related support and advice to the General Manager, Vice President and leadership team.
- Partners with YorkNet management, community stakeholders and external partners to develop and deliver campaigns, projects and products that improve awareness and engagement.
- Collaborates with other Branches and Departments to educate on YorkNet initiatives, opportunities, and advantages.
- Conducts industry related research to effectively promote the work of YorkNet and its successes.
- Analyzes and interprets data and information to determine gaps and identify course of action and future needs to support program and initiatives.
- Establishes goals and key performance indicators for projects and programs across multiple partnerships, both internally and externally.
- Assists management with strategic and long-term planning activities based on research and analysis of Branch and department and corporate initiatives, Provincial initiatives and legislative requirements specifically focused on broadband/internet initiatives and opportunities to leverage connectivity.
- Develops policies and procedures for program area and makes recommendations for implementation.
- Leads the development and implementation of an evaluation framework for monitoring public/stakeholder outreach, engagement, and consultation outcomes.
- Plans, delivers and attends community and stakeholder events, information sessions and campaigns that help to engage target audiences, and makes presentations as required.
- Works with partners to support the production and design of print material, presentations, website and MyPortal content, exhibits and promotional displays.
- Partners with communications staff in other departments to influence and secure support for YorkNet objectives from partners (both internal and external to the Region).
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
- Successful completion of a University Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related discipline or approved equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum five (5) years progressive experience working in public relations, communications or a related field.
- Experience in or knowledge of telecommunications, fibre networks and broadband programs and initiatives.
- Experience in program development and evaluation, public engagement and consultation, market research, social marketing, coordination of major events and promotional campaigns.
- Strong project management and coordination skills to manage competing interests and changing priorities.
- Proven political acuity and skills to handle and avoid contentious issues.
- Ability to travel to off site locations as required.
- Ability to work outside regular business hours, as required
- Demonstrated ability in the Region’s leadership core competencies.