New Posting -YYR

Senior Communications Specialist – Communications Department

Permanent, Full-Time

The Vancouver Airport Authority has a permanent, full-time opportunity for a Senior Communications Specialist.  Reporting to the Manager, Corporate Communications, the successful candidate will be responsible for planning and managing corporate communications programs and activities that support Vancouver Airport Authority’s business objectives and target key external stakeholders.

Key responsibilities include:

·     Promoting, protecting and enhancing the reputation and image of the YVR brand through public relations, media relations, sponsorships and public affairs activities

·     Managing proactive communications and relationships with key media; maximizes opportunities with media and policy leaders in positioning key executives, programs and special projects

·     Assisting with issues management on behalf of the organization, identifying, monitoring and executing response strategies

·     Assisting with development, revision and testing of the Airport Authority’s Crisis Communications Plan

·     Acting as a spokesperson for the Airport Authority as required

·     Handling media inquiries, providing key talking points and coaching to executives prior to media interviews

·     Collaborating with all departments and stakeholders to develop comprehensive communications plans  and provides counsel to support strategic priorities

·     Providing project management for key communications activities, including managing budgets and vendor relationships

·     Drafting documents to support media relations including news releases, backgrounders, corporate positions on various matters, speeches

·     Producing and disseminating written materials for internal and external publications and all online communications tools, including website, blog, Twitter, Facebook and intranet

·     Coordinating with various levels of government to organize media events and announcements

·     Sharing responsibility of 24/7 media and social media coverage with key members of the team

·     Representing the Airport Authority on industry committees and multi-agency teams

Key qualifications include:

·     Minimum of five years’ experience in communications with an agency or corporation

·     Degree in Communications or related field or combination of diploma in Journalism or Public Relations and experience in public relations

·     Proven experience as a media spokesperson for an organization, managing media and crisis communications while working closely with senior executives

·     Strong organizational skills and keen sense of priorities

·     Ability to work under pressure and meet very tight deadlines in an environment with conflicting priorities

·     Ability to speak Mandarin or Cantonese and write/read Simplified Chinese an asset

·     Excellent analytical and reporting skills

·     Knowledge of and experience with social media

·     Excellent written and verbal communications skills with experience writing media materials, articles, speeches, and other types of business communications

·     Proven track record of managing successful local and national media relations, and experience handling sensitive and confidential issues

·     Proven ability to develop media relationships in order to enhance awareness and image of the organization

We are committed to employment equity and welcome applications from everyone, including women, aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities. 

Reference no.: 14-11E