Government and Media Relations Officer

Human Concern International; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A humanitarian organization in Ottawa is seeking a Government and Media Relations Officer to manage interactions with government and media. The ideal candidate will enhance the organization’s public image, require a Bachelor's in a related field, and possess strong communication skills. Responsibilities include cultivating relationships, monitoring media, and preparing communication materials. The role offers a salary of CAD 55,000 - 60,000 annually, alongside a benefits package that includes health programs and paid time off.

Benefits

Medical benefits

Wellness programs

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in a relevant field.
• Experience in Public Relations, Media Relations, or Government Relations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong media relations skills essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategies to enhance the organization’s reputation.
• Serve as primary contact for government officials.
• Monitor legislative developments.
• Prepare briefing materials for meetings.
• Cultivate relationships with journalists.

Skills

Written communication skills

Verbal communication skills

Media relations skills

Crisis communications

Interpersonal relationships

Organizational skills

Detail-oriented

Team player

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communication, Public Relations, Journalism or Media

Tools

MS Office Suite

Job description

Job Description

Salary: 55,000 - 60,000 CAD Annually

Job Posting

At Human Concern International, we are more than a great and open place to work in our work is life-changing. Together, we try to move families from crisis to sustainability. More than 40 years ago the inspiration for HCI began with three volunteers wish to change the lives of thousands of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Today, together with our volunteers, donors and staff, HCI has delivered more than $250 millions in aid and transformed countless lives in more than 40 countries.

We are seeking a skilled Government and Media Relations Officer to join our team. This role will be pivotal in managing our organization's interactions with government entities and media outlets, ensuring effective communication and promoting positive relationships. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of governmental processes, excellent communication skills, and a strategic approach to media relations. You will represent Human Concern International (HCI) and work with the management team to enhance our company's public image and maintain positive relationships with the media, stakeholders, and the community.

Position Title: Government and Media Relations Officer

Reporting To: Global CEO

Location: Ottawa

Terms: Full Time 37.5 hours per week

Salary: 55,000 - 60,000 CAD Annually

Deadline to Apply: On going until we find a suitable candidate

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategies to enhance the organization's reputation and manage its relationship with governmental bodies and agencies.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for government officials, maintaining ongoing relationships and advocating for the organizations interests.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments that could impact the organization and provide timely updates and analysis to senior management.
• Prepare briefing materials, presentations, and reports for meetings with government officials and stakeholders.
• Coordinate responses to government inquiries, requests for information, and public records requests.
• Cultivate relationships with journalists, editors, and media outlets to ensure accurate and favorable coverage of the organizations activities.
• Draft press releases, media statements, and other communications materials as needed.
• Organize press conferences, interviews, and media briefings, and serve as a spokesperson for the organization when required.
• Monitor media coverage and social media channels to assess public opinion and identify potential issues that may impact the organization.
• Collaborate with internal departments such as Legal, Public Affairs, and Marketing to align government relations and media strategies with overall organizational goals.
• Proactively pitch story ideas and secure media coverage in print, broadcast, and online media outlets.
• Serve as the company's spokesperson and handle inquiries from the media, ensuring accurate and timely responses.
• Prepare executives and spokespersons for media interviews and public speaking engagements.
• Attend political events, receptions, and conferences as needed to build networks and gather intelligence.
• Ensure lobbying activities comply with lobbying registries and disclosure requirements.
• Support senior leadership in booking, organizing, and preparing for meetings with government officials.
• Other tasks as assigned

Qualifications, Skills and Experience

• Bachelors degree in Communication, Public Relations, Journalism or Media or a related field
• Experience in Public Relations, Media Relations or Government Relations
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling messages and materials.
• Strong media relations skills with a demonstrated ability to secure positive media coverage.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines.
• Experience in crisis communications and reputation management is a plus.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and familiarity with media monitoring tools.
• Organized and efficient in daily tasks
• Competence to build and effectively manage interpersonal relationships at all levels of the organization
• Methodical, organised and able to work with good attention to detail.
• Team player with the ability to work independently with little direction or supervision
• Strong and clear commitment to HCIs values

Our Offer

• Salary: Annual salary of CAD 55,000 - 60,000, along with potential annual incentives.
• Benefits Package: Medical, wellness programs, and more.
• Retirement Savings: Contributions to a Registered Retirement Savings Plan.
• Paid Time Off: Sick days, vacation days, and family days for work-life balance.
• Professional Development: Access to training, leadership programs, and career growth opportunities.

Some travel, as well as evening and weekend work, may be required.

We appreciate all applications; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.