Communications Specialist

Provincial Health Services Authority; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Communications Specialist to enhance its public engagement and media relations. This role involves crafting compelling communication materials, managing social media presence, and coordinating events to promote the organization's mission. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in journalism and public relations, with a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. Join a team dedicated to continuous improvement and equity in healthcare, where your contributions will make a significant impact on community engagement and organizational reputation.

Benefits

Flexible Work Arrangements

Health and Wellness Programs

Professional Growth Opportunities

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant experience in communications or public relations.
• Knowledge of Indigenous rights and anti-racism initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Support the Manager in executing annual communications plans.
• Manage media relations and coordinate public events.

Skills

Journalistic Writing

Strategic Communication Planning

Media Relations

Social Media Management

Event Coordination

Education

Undergraduate degree in Journalism

Public Relations or Communications

Tools

Digital Media Tools

Web Publishing Software

Job description

Communications Specialist

Children's & Women's Health Center

Vancouver, BC

In accordance with the Mission, Vision and Values, and strategic directions of Provincial Health Services Authority, patient and employee safety is a priority and a shared responsibility. Continuous quality and safety improvements are integral to this role.

The Communications Specialist supports the Manager in planning, coordinating, and executing BCCHR's annual communications plan. Responsibilities include issue identification, media spokesperson coaching, media event planning, public relations, social media management, publication production, and special event coordination. Additionally, contributions to website and intranet development are expected.

What you’ll do

1. Collaborate with BCCHR’s Communications team to ensure consistent, high-quality messaging across all platforms, responding to media and community inquiries strategically and accurately.
2. Create, edit, and produce diverse communication materials such as articles, newsletters, web content, news releases, speeches, briefing notes, brochures, social media content, and more, in partnership with team members. Maintain updated contact lists for media and stakeholders.
3. Coordinate the production and distribution of external publications, including annual reports and patient information booklets, working with designers, photographers, and printers.
4. Develop and sustain strong media relationships, proactively managing media relations to promote BCCHR’s achievements and reputation.
5. Handle media requests and public queries, acting as a primary contact for external audiences.
6. Monitor news coverage related to BCCHR, disseminate coverage items, identify potential issues or crises, and alert relevant parties.
7. Maintain a media inquiry database, prepare activity reports, and provide media training for BCCHR spokespersons.
8. Contribute to website and social media content management.
9. Organize and oversee events such as campaigns, conferences, and lectures.
10. Deliver public speaking engagements to external stakeholders as needed.
11. Liaise with internal stakeholders to understand issues, challenges, and strategic initiatives, fostering open dialogue and clear communication to enhance BCCHR’s reputation.
12. Participate in committees to address communication issues and share knowledge for continuous improvement.
13. Support quality improvement initiatives by aligning standards with organizational goals and accreditation requirements.
14. Stay informed on emerging trends in corporate communications through literature review, peer contact, and professional development.
15. Perform other duties as assigned.

What you bring

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in Journalism, Public Relations, Communications, or a related field, with at least five years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge of the impacts of settler colonialism on Indigenous Peoples within social and health contexts, with a commitment to anti-racism and Indigenous Cultural Safety and Humility.
• Understanding of legislative obligations and provincial commitments related to Indigenous rights and systemic racism, including key documents such as the TRC Calls to Action, In Plain Sight, BC’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, UNDRIP, and others.

Core Competencies

• Understanding of Indigenous-specific and systemic racism, with initiatives demonstrated to promote a safe, inclusive environment grounded in Indigenous Cultural Safety.
• Awareness of the social, economic, and political realities affecting Indigenous Peoples and equity groups, with a commitment to anti-racism and systemic change.

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong team collaboration, journalistic writing, and publication creation skills.
• Experience in developing and executing strategic communication plans under tight deadlines.
• Proficiency with organizational communication technology, web publishing, and digital media tools.
• Ability to prioritize, organize, and achieve objectives effectively, maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
• Willingness to engage in ongoing learning about Indigenous issues and anti-racism efforts, sharing insights to foster a motivated, informed team environment.

What we bring

Our organization is committed to supporting your health, wellness, and professional growth through comprehensive programs, recognition, and flexible work arrangements. We value diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive, culturally safe environment, actively seeking applications from marginalized groups, including Indigenous peoples. We uphold legislative obligations and provincial commitments to eradicate Indigenous-specific racism and promote equity in healthcare.