Office of the Child, Youth and Senior Advocate
Communications Director
Pay Band 6
Open Competition
Fredericton

The Office of the Child, Youth and Senior Advocate is seeking a candidate to fill a full-time permanent Communications Director position in their Fredericton Office.

The Office of the Child, Youth and Senior Advocate, in accordance with the Child, Youth and Senior Advocate Act, ensures that the rights and interests of children, youth, vulnerable adults and seniors are protected in government policy, programs and services. This is done by the following means: advocating and using alternative dispute resolution processes in individual matters, conducting independent and confidential investigations into complaints regarding access to appropriate services; monitoring laws and policies to make sure they are fair, properly followed, and rights-adhering; reporting on the availability, effectiveness, responsiveness and relevance of government services in New Brunswick; and advocating for the rights and interests of children, youth, vulnerable adults and seniors in general.

The Director of Communications for the Office of the Child Youth and Senior Advocate plays a pivotal role in shaping and executing communication strategies to effectively advocate for the rights and welfare of children, youth, vulnerable adults and seniors. This role encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities, from branding and marketing initiatives to managing media relations and communicating with legislative bodies. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional communication skills, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to the well-being of vulnerable populations.
The Director of Communications will play a critical role in advancing the mission of the Office of the Child Youth and Senior Advocate, advocating for the rights and well-being of children, youth, vulnerable adults and seniors across the community. This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead strategic communication initiatives that make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable populations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Branding and Marketing

• Develop and implement comprehensive branding strategies to enhance the visibility and credibility of the Office of the Child Youth and Senior Advocate.
• Create compelling messaging and materials tailored to different target audiences, including children, youth, vulnerable adults, seniors, caregivers, policymakers, and the general public.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistency in branding across all communications channels.

Media Relations

• Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, building and maintaining positive relationships with journalists, editors, and other media professionals.
• Draft press releases, media advisories, op-eds, and other materials to communicate key advocacy messages and initiatives.
• Monitor media coverage and provide timely responses to inquiries or inaccuracies.

Website Management:

• Oversee the development and maintenance of the Office's website, ensuring it remains up-to-date, user-friendly, and aligned with branding guidelines.
• Coordinate with web developers and designers to implement enhancements and improvements as needed.
• Produce and curate content for the website, including articles, reports, videos, and multimedia resources.

Legislative Affairs Communications:

• Develop communication strategies to support legislative advocacy efforts, working closely with the Office's Public Relations Team.
• Draft briefing notes and other materials for MLA's
• Engage with government officials and advocacy organizations to advance the Office's policy priorities.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Bilingual in French and English
• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Proven experience in communications roles, preferably in the public sector or within advocacy organizations.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with the ability to convey complex issues in a clear and compelling manner.
• Demonstrated expertise in media relations, including experience pitching stories, managing press conferences, and conducting media training.
• Proficiency in website management platforms, content management systems, and social media platforms.
• Knowledge of legislative processes and experience in communicating with policymakers is highly desirable.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with a strong commitment to social justice and equity.
• Experience in social policy and knowledge of legislative processes

Applicants must clearly demonstrate the essential qualifications to be given further consideration.

SALARY
Pay Band 6 of the Management and Non-Union Pay Plan ($73,996 to $98,436 annually, depending on education and experience)

Applicants may apply with a cover letter and resume online at www.ere.gnb.ca or by e-mail to [email protected] by April 29, 2024.

We thank all those who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.