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Wellesley Institute's mission is to advance population health and reduce health inequities by driving change on the social determinants of health. We do this by undertaking applied research, recommending effective policy solutions, mobilizing knowledge and innovation.

A career at Wellesley Institute is more than a job. It’s an opportunity to use your talents to help create a healthier and more equitable Greater Toronto Area for all. Our people are essential to our efforts and we will empower you to be successful in your role.

The role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Communications Specialist to join our diverse team of professionals.

The Communications Specialist is responsible for developing and implementing communications plans and tactics with the goal of enhancing the reach and impact of Wellesley Institute.

The work encompasses web and social media content, e-newsletters and publications, editing, event planning, design, and sometimes even media relations and video work. The Communications Specialist will work closely with the Director of Communications and Partnerships in the ongoing planning, implementation and evaluation of communications across all platforms to ensure they meet organizational objectives, and that they continue to evolve to meet future needs.  

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree, with education in communications, media, journalism or marketing; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience: Minimum two years experience in strategic communications, with an understanding of public policy, health equity and the social determinants of health. Experience in web and social media content development, writing and editing for a variety of communications channels and graphic design/layout is required.

Skills

• Superior knowledge of social media platforms, content development and social media management and analytics.
• Excellent writer, with the ability to produce content that engages a variety of audiences.
• Strong proofreading and editing skills, with the ability to spot a mistake, and make the writing read even better.  
• Strong verbal communication skills.
• Intermediate-level skills using design software (Canva and Adobe Creative).
• Experience working with WordPress or a similar web content management system.
• Ability to analyze web data (Google Analytics).
• Experience developing and deploying e-communications (i.e. via MailChimp).
• High level of creativity, versatility, visual ability and originality.
• Strong judgement skills and the ability to work effectively with staff, partners and the public in a collegial and cooperative manner.

Responsibilities

Social and e-newsletter communications:

• Work with the Director of Communications and Partnerships to develop and implement content plans for social, web and other e-communication channels.
• Build and maintain Wellesley’s presence on social platforms, creating conversation and posting appropriate and timely responses.
• Develop and implement an engaging bi-monthly e-newsletter publication schedule and content plan.
• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of social and e-communications tactics, using data to inform continual audience growth and engagement.

Content development and coordination:

• Write and edit materials for external and internal stakeholders.
• Proofread and edit research reports, policy documents and blogs to ensure clarity, engaging content and alignment with the Wellesley Institute Style Guide.
• Develop infographics and basic report layouts using design programs (i.e. Canva and Adobe).
• Coordinate with external designers on larger projects (and with photographers and videographers, if needed) to ensure highest-quality final products.
• Assist in developing content for and producing annual Impact Report.

Website:

• Write, update and post content to the website.
• Organize and maintain web pages, ensuring the information is up to date, posted in a timely fashion and consistent with the mission and brand.
• Recommend enhancements to website navigation and content, when and if opportunities are identified.

Webinar and event management:

• Work with Wellesley staff to stage periodic webinars for external stakeholders about our research and policy work.
• Work with the Director of Communications and Partnerships to conceptualize, develop and execute periodic public-facing events, including open houses and conferences.
• Work with venues, vendors and suppliers, as needed, to ensure quality and cost effectiveness.
• Manage logistics leading up to and on event day.

Other:

• Support the Director in engaging reporters and media outlets in the work of Wellesley Institute, and in preparing staff for media interviews.
• Champion the Wellesley brand and visual identity, ensuring all public-facing materials are in alignment.
• Commit to curiosity, continual learning and making an impact.

General information 

Wellesley Institute is located in downtown Toronto. This is an on-site position. We are currently working a hybrid of onsite/remote but may return to on-site only.    

Wellesley Institute has a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy in place. Employees are required to get COVID-19 booster vaccinations promptly when they become eligible and only those who are willing to meet these criteria should apply for this position. Wellesley Institute will comply with the Ontario Human Rights Code requirements regarding exemption requests.  

Wellesley Institute is strongly committed to diversity and especially welcomes applications from people from Black and other racialized communities, women, Indigenous communities, people with disabilities, people from the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.