Posting Summary

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Purpose:
Markham Campus will embed York University in the heart of one of the most diverse and dynamic urban communities in the country. Reflecting the local economy, academic programs and research will revolve around the core themes of technology and entrepreneurship and how they are driving innovation across all areas of knowledge and society.Challenging the traditions of what a university campus can offer, Markham Campus will act as a unique meeting place for students to interact directly with employers, start-up companies, and community partners from across the region.Reporting to the Executive Director of Strategy and Administration, and indirectly to the University's Chief Communications & Marketing Officer (CCMO), the Director, Strategic Communications is a member of the senior leadership team of Marham Campus and supports the Markham Campus Deputy Provost and other senior level executives. The Director is responsible for communications planning and implementation, providing leadership to drive the success of the Campus plan, academic mission, and York's brand and values. As a compelling storyteller, the Director will unearth, write, edit and share the incredible stories of the Markham community to help bring York's brand, culture and academic mission to life. Working closely with the University' s central Communications & Public Affairs Division (C&PA) the Director will ensure that communications and marketing work are aligned with institutional communications.

Education:
University degree, preferably a master's degree in English, journalism or a communications related field or equivalent experience.

Experience:
Minimum 10 years of leadership experience in communications, marketing and/or public relations, including significant demonstrated experience in developing and implementing strategic communication strategies.
Experience in a matrixed organization having had a leadership role in communications producing a variety of communication vehicles aimed at various internal and external audiences. Knowledge of, and experience in, integrated communications, brand management, internal communications and culture change, media relations and external communications.
Demonstrated success in profile building and the creation of innovative, successful, communication strategies by leading staff within a large portfolio in a complex unionized environment.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with partner groups to influence and provide strategic communications advice, counsel, and support.
Demonstrated experience utilizing novel digital platforms. have an affinity for emerging digital technologies (e.g., VR/AR) to connect with a broad audience.

Skills:
Thorough knowledge of strategic communications planning, CP style writing and editing, social media management, and web development tools.
Proven knowledge and understanding of collaborative community partnerships as they relate to communications and marketing.
Comprehensive understanding of university/public sector governance, policies, procedures, and culture.
Demonstrated strategic planning skills and the ability to identify appropriate communication opportunities to deliver the most impact with relevant audiences keeping the short - mid - and long-term goals of the Markham Campus and University in mind.
Demonstrated exceptional communications skills including writing and editing.
Ability to work under pressure and on deadline.
Flexible and adaptable with excellent organizational, planning and project management skills.
Excellent problem-solving skills.
Proven ability to handle sensitive matters and challenging situations in a tactful, confidential, and respectful manner.
Demonstrated strong leadership, coaching, and team building skills that foster an environment of respect, high performance, and trust.
Proven success in building relationships and leading and championing inclusion and innovation.
Ability to communicate and build rapport and credibility with senior University administrators and executive level representatives in the private and public sectors.
Proven ability to manage large communications projects directly and indirectly with both financial and human resources components.
Proven financial management skills.
Proficient with MS Office 365 (i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Zoom, Microsoft Teams.

Additional Notes:
Works in an office setting with extended periods of working on a computer and telephone.Works extended hours as a result of strict deadlines and unpredictability of role (campus issues and crisis management) which can include evenings and weekends. On-call outside of regular work hours as required.
Responds to emergency situations where there is pressure to find a solution quickly.The incumbent will deal with multiple priorities, demands and deadlines. Must be able to work flexible hours when required for special events and activities including weekends and evenings. Travel to other York campuses and locations for meetings will be required.This position requires the candidate to produce a verification of degree(s), credential(s) or equivalencies from accredited institutions and/or international equivalents at the time of interview.

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*Compensation:
York's CPM Compensation Framework has a salary grid consisting of 6 or 8 steps (depending on job grade) which is reviewed annually with possible adjustments, and a lump sum Performance Based Recognition Award. Employees will receive the grid adjustment and depending on performance, eligible permanent employees may move to the next step of the grid and may receive a lump sum Performance Based Recognition Award.Visit the CPM Compensation page on the HR Website to find out more about York's CPM Compensation Program.

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