Inclusive Communications Manager, Indigenous Relations

Job Description

<p><h3>Overview</h3><p><b>Inclusive Communications Manager, Indigenous Relations</b></p><p>At the University of Waterloo, we create and promote a culture where everyone can reach their full potential. As an employee, you get support & opportunities that empower you to advance your career. Explore how we can bring big ideas to life, together. The University is a welcoming workplace for those of all abilities, interests, and expertise. As part of our workforce, you can do what you do best, every day.</p><p><b>Job Requisition ID:</b> 2025-00296</p><p><b>Time Type:</b> Full time</p><p><b>Employee Group:</b> Staff</p><p><b>Job Category:</b> Marketing</p><p><b>Employment Type:</b> Temporary</p><p><b>Department:</b> Advancement and External Relations - Executive Communications</p><p><b>Hiring Range:</b> $85,399.86 - $106,749.82</p><p><b>Posting Information:</b> Term: 18 months</p><p>The University of Waterloo acknowledges the traditional territories on which we work and study and is committed to Truth and Reconciliation. The selection process for this position may follow equity-deserving group considerations in line with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the University’s Strategic Plans.</p><h3>Primary Purpose</h3><p>The Inclusive Communications Manager (IR) is responsible for writing and developing a wide range of communication products in support of the University’s strategic objectives, specifically supporting the Office of Indigenous Relations and other strategic communications at the University of Waterloo. The role works within anti-oppression, anti-racism, and decolonizing lenses to provide guidance to senior leaders on communications and to develop communications that promote, deliver and facilitate the objectives of the Office of Indigenous Relations. Under the direction of the Director, Executive Communications, this role delivers and coordinates communications for the Office of Indigenous Relations and supports all equity- and anti-racism related communications across multiple areas of the University. The role requires expertise in employee and student communication, storytelling, speechwriting, website best practices, social media, digital marketing, and communications design, development, and execution. The ideal candidate will be Indigenous (First Nations Status or Non-Status, Métis, and/or Inuit) with lived experience in Indigenous communities considered an asset.</p><p>The University is committed to implementing the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We acknowledge that we live and work on the traditional territories of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples, and on the Haldimand Tract.</p><h3>Key Accountabilities</h3><ul><li><span>Implement equity-informed communication plans: Provide leadership in creating communication products and plans that embed equity, diversity, inclusion, anti-racism, anti-oppression, and decolonization.</span></li><li><span>Research and develop strategic communication strategies and plans to support the Office of Indigenous Relations and University Relations.</span></li><li><span>Ensure consistency of voice and message across all channels.</span></li><li><span>Work with campus stakeholders to prepare messaging, communication products, speeches, reports, presentations, and other materials in support of inclusive communication.</span></li><li><span>Facilitate community engagement and consultation with a wide range of stakeholders.</span></li><li><span>Manage and coordinate all activity in Office of Indigenous Relations communication plans, including deploying resources and managing risks.</span></li><li><span>Ensure the most appropriate and cost-effective channels mix and maximize the potential of digital channels.</span></li><li><span>Support all lines of University Relations and University Communications work, as needed.</span></li></ul><ul><li><span>Insights and understanding: Provide strategic communications advice to colleagues in resolving communications challenges and managing contentious and sensitive issues; identify Indigenous communities and regions where our students and employees come from and develop targeted strategies; analyze and segment internal audiences; maintain a strong understanding of different internal audiences to ensure accessible tone, language and format.</span></li></ul><ul><li><span>Influence and impact: Provide support and clarification to other communicators to deliver key messages and strengthen equity, diversity, inclusion, anti-racism, anti-oppression, and decolonization in Waterloo communications; promote collaboration among communicators across the University; develop and deliver evaluation approaches for communications.</span></li></ul><h3>Required Qualifications</h3><h3>Education</h3><ul><li><span>University degree in English, political science, public relations, marketing or a communications-related field, or equivalent experience.</span></li></ul><h3>Experience</h3><ul><li><span>This position is prioritized to candidates who identify as Indigenous; lived experience and expertise are essential to implementing the key accountabilities of this role.</span></li><li><span>5+ years of progressive experience providing communication support in a complex, fast-moving and diverse corporate environment is essential.</span></li><li><span>Experience working with issues supporting anti-racism, anti-oppression and decolonization in diverse communities is desirable.</span></li><li><span>Experience developing established objectives into material for targeted communications and engagement activities across a range of channels and media, including face-to-face engagement.</span></li><li><span>Experience in writing, proofreading, editing material (including speeches), and presenting proposals and plans to senior/board level executives.</span></li><li><span>Experience providing superior client service and ability to align expectations and garner engagement with communications services.</span></li><li><span>Experience working with executives and leaders, demonstrating advanced influencing and negotiation skills.</span></li><li><span>Experience of developing organizational objectives into material for targeted communications across multiple channels and media, including face-to-face engagement.</span></li><li><span>Experience working with people with no direct or negative experience of professional communications and aligning input/requirements.</span></li></ul><ul><li><span>Evidence of a highly collaborative style and ability to react quickly to changing circumstances.</span></li></ul><h3>Knowledge/Skills/Abilities</h3><ul><li><span>Demonstrated knowledge of and sensitivity to systemic issues facing racialized communities, particularly in post-secondary education.</span></li><li><span>Strong digital communications skills and familiarity with social media, mobile tools, and trends; adaptable to rapid change and innovation.</span></li><li><span>Excellent written and verbal communication skills.</span></li><li><span>Desirable: specialized training in anti-oppression, anti-racism, confronting anti-Black racism, discrimination, and decolonizing practices.</span></li><li><span>Critical thinking and analytical skills to assess complex issues for stakeholders, including media, public, and funders.</span></li><li><span>Ability to network and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels, influencing and persuading when needed.</span></li><li><span>Expertise in strategic storytelling, communications, marketing, website best practices, digital/content marketing, and communications design and execution.</span></li><li><span>Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects.</span></li><li><span>Ability to handle confidential material with discretion.</span></li><li><span>Judgment and problem-solving skills, with sensitivity to political environment and university reputation.</span></li><li><span>Working knowledge of relevant legislation (e.g., Ontario Human Rights Code, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act).</span></li></ul><h3>Equity Statement</h3><p>The University of Waterloo acknowledges the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our work is connected to the Haldimand Tract. We value equity and diversity and encourage applications from candidates who are historically disadvantaged or marginalized, including Indigenous peoples, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, women, and racialized communities. Positions are open to qualified candidates legally entitled to work in Canada. For accommodation requests, contact Human Resources at hrhelp@uwaterloo.ca or 519-888-4567, ext. 45935.</p></p> #J-18808-Ljbffr