Communications Manager

Location: Simon Fraser University (SFU) – Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver (multi-location)
Contract Length: Two year contract
Supervisor: Director of Development
Compensation: $25,000 – $30,000 annually commensurate with experience
Hours: flexible, averaging 20 hours per week
Starting Date: Monday, December 9th, 2024

Application Deadline: Monday, November 11th, 2024

About Embark

Embark Sustainability Society is an independent, student-centered not-for-profit based out of Simon Fraser University that catalyzes student sustainability (un)learning journeys for the next generation of leaders. We do this by engaging Simon Fraser University (SFU) students in programs, events, and other initiatives that spark dialogue and cultivate action to address systemic challenges within our climate and food systems. Our work is supported by the 35,000+ undergraduate and graduate student members that we represent.

Inclusivity Hiring Statement

At Embark, we strive to support staff in being themselves and exploring what that means within the context of our work. We do this by fostering a work culture that enables self-expression and exploration and honoring individuals’ understandings. We believe perspectives that forward multiple truths will strengthen environmental solutions while challenging normative assumptions of who possesses knowledge and which approach is best. We assert that systems change requires various ways of thinking. If you share these values, we strongly encourage you to apply to be part of our team.

About the Role

The Communications Manager is responsible for the management and development of all strategic communications and design at Embark Sustainability while supporting student-led initiatives. The Communications Manager approaches design and communications with an intersectional lens and prioritizes anti-oppression in their work.

This role is well-suited for a visionary strategic thinker with the talent to articulate the branding and communication vision of Embark Sustainability across diverse audiences. The Communications Manager will be leading our communication strategy and further enhance our brand awareness and relations with our membership and collaborators. This position reports to and works closely with Embark’s Director of Development.

You will be responsible for managing high volume and fast-paced delivery of quality design work and vision for all digital marketing (campaigns, social media, newsletter),
together with digital experience projects (including website updates, blog writing, and
more). As part of a team in a small organization, you will also be supporting Embark
with occasional administrative duties as needed.

This position acts as a mentor and is responsible for the growth and development of writers and media-related volunteers. It’s important that you have strong interpersonal skills and to first and foremost lead with empathy.

Responsibilities

Visual Asset Creation 

• Create graphic assets for website and social media channels to promote Embark’s opportunities, events, and programs.
• Take photographs and record videos at Embark events and edit consistently to suit Embark’s overall brand.
• Create print ephemera and print physical materials as needed for promotional, outreach, and programming signage purposes.
  

Communications

• Develop and implement Embark’s overall communications strategy to expand Embark’s presence on SFU campuses and beyond. This should include, but is not limited to:
  • Generating and posting social media content;
  • Program promotion and responding to the needs of Embark programming;
  • Coordinating the development and submission of written or multimedia pieces from student volunteers;
  • Compiling information for and releasing the monthly newsletter.
• Create a content plan and social media schedule including a mix of promotional, educational, advocacy, and Embark lifestyle content.
• Update the information on the website to reflect current information and upcoming opportunities, events, and programs.
• Monitor engagement on our website and social media using Google Analytics and social media analytics and insight pages.
• Mentor media volunteers to build skills and contribute to Embark’s online presence through content creation in the following areas:
  • Blog/article writing;
  • Infographic creation;
  • Short form video content.

Administrative

• Respond to student inquiries through email and in person.
• Organize, manage, and communicate with students involved with or interested in media volunteer opportunities.
• Keep records of assets created for Embark’s communications.
• Attend regular staff meetings and communicate with supervisor.

Desired Qualifications

• Eager to learn about current approaches within the field of communication, design, and engagement, including promising practices in centering anti-oppression, equity, justice, and accessible communication.
• Experienced in the areas of strategic communications, public relations, digital marketing, and interactive arts and technology through a combination of educational, lived, and professional experience.
• Detailed-oriented and has an eye for brand consistency.
• Known for their creativity and exceptional at communicating with a broad and diverse audience.
• Self-motivated, take initiative, and work effectively and within a team.
• Responsible, reliable, and consistent in carrying out work duties.
• Knowledgeable and comfortable working with Adobe Creative Suite applications (e.g. InDesign, Illustrator, Lightroom), WordPress, Monday, Brevo, Slack, Analytics.
• Comfortable following design requirements outlined in the Embark Sustainability Brand Guide.
• Interested in working within a student- and learning-oriented organization.
• Able to demonstrate success in producing visual content and engaging communities online and in person.

Benefits

• Transit reimbursement
• Extended medical and dental benefits 
• Health spending account
• 12 paid wellness days per calendar year
• 3 weeks vacation
• 5 paid bereavement days per calendar year in the case of death of a family member
• Reimbursement for professional development activities related to the position