Writer/editor

Reporting to the Senior Manager, Communications & Media, the Writer/Editor is responsible for the editorial planning, writing, copyediting and proofreading of communications and marketing materials for OCAD University (OCAD U). This includes materials for Marketing & Communications and the Office of the President such as an employee newsletter, external newsletters, annual reports, news stories, social media posts, media releases and announcements, speeches, and other materials as required. This position will be hybrid, a combination of working in the office and remotely.

Summary of Responsibilities:

• In consultation with the Senior Manager, Communications & Media, develop and implement an editorial calendar and content plans for an employee newsletter, and for external newsletters; write content and coordinate the production and dissemination of these newsletters, and liaise with internal stakeholders regarding content, image submissions and source images while meeting dissemination timelines
• Prepare an annual editorial calendar for website news content, and write and edit website content (such as profiles, news stories, features and event listings), conduct interviews for original news stories, source images or photography, and post content on the website as well as on the employee and student portal, as required
• In consultation with the Senior Manager, Communications & Media, and working in collaboration with the Creative Director or designate, plan, write and oversee the production of OCAD University’s annual report and design development
• Prepare and/or write content (including news stories, event listings, promotional and marketing materials and invitations) and provide copyediting and proofreading services for OCAD University signature events and institutional initiatives, including, but not limited to, Project 31, GradEx, Convocation, annual gala, and town halls
• In consultation with the Senior Manager, Communications & Media, prepare content outline, research and write content for PowerPoint presentations, and work in collaboration with the Creative Director or designate on the design and production of PowerPoint presentations
• Provide copyediting and proofreading services of materials and publications for departments across the University, as directed by the Senior Manager, Communications & Media
• Maintain the OCAD U style guide and update it regularly
• Write content for online and print publications and marketing materials, as required
• Write scripts for videos, as required
• Research and write speeches and speaking remarks for the President and Chancellor, and other senior leaders as directed by the Senior Manager, Communications & Media
• In collaboration with Senior Manager, Communications & Media, utilize the established strategic messages to ensure alignment across the institution
• Assist the Senior Manager, Communications & Media in preparing quarterly communications, media reports and an annual report on communications and media activities for the Chief Marketing Officer
• Assist the Senior Manager, Communications & Media with other communications activities or related tasks that contribute to the successful operation of the Marketing & Communications department

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary degree in journalism or communications, or equivalent, with a minimum of three (3) years of related experience as an editor or writer
• Knowledge of, or experience in, the visual arts, culture or university environment
• Exceptional writing, copywriting and proofreading skills with strong knowledge of the Canadian Press style, demonstrated attention to detail, and strong oral communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to write news stories, features, video scripts and speaking remarks and speeches
• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to work on multifaceted projects concurrently and meet deadlines in a fast-paced work environment
• Strong interpersonal skills, and demonstrated ability to work as a member of a team and to provide a high degree of customer service
• Strong computer skills in Microsoft Office products, including Excel, PowerPoint, Word and ability to post content to the website using Drupal and to the employee and student portals
• Demonstrated experience in writing materials to meet AODA requirements, familiarity with AODA requirements and standards for writing accessible materials; demonstrated ability to create accessible PDFs is an asset
• Demonstrated commitment to the principles of equity and diversity, and experience promoting a respectful work and learning environment for students, staff and faculty

Compensation: Hiring Range - $34.64 to $39.72 per hour commensurate with experience, plus 4% vacation pay and 7% in lieu of benefits; Salary Range - $34.64 to $45.53 per hour. As this is a temporary contract over 1 year, the successful incumbent may be eligible to enroll in the University's benefit plan.

Hours of Work:Monday to Fri