Should the successful applicant be a Unifor Unit 1 bargaining unit member, who meets the eligibility conditions of Article 19.02 of the Unifor Unit 1 Collective Agreement, then the Limited Term Assignment will be defined as a Career Growth Opportunity in accordance with Article 19 of the Unifor Local 5555 Unit 1 Collective Agreement.
Reporting to the Associate Director, Campaign Communications, the Manager, Strategic Communications plays a key role in advancing the University’s comprehensive campaign by creating high-impact communications that support donor cultivation, campaign events and compelling campaign cases. This role is responsible for developing and executing strategic, audience-focused communications that build momentum, deepen engagement and reinforce the University’s philanthropic priorities across digital and live platforms.
With a strong emphasis on event-related communications, this position leads the creation of written and digital content that supports cultivation and stewardship events, including invitations, remarks, event messaging, post-event follow-up, and storytelling assets. The Manager, Strategic Communications, works closely with development, donor relations and institutional partners to translate campaign priorities into clear, persuasive narratives that resonate with donors, alumni, and key stakeholders. The role will assist with the execution of campaign-related marketing initiatives.
The role will support social and digital communications, planning and delivering timely, engaging content across social media, web and email channels to amplify campaign milestones, showcase impact and highlight donor stories. In a highly confidential environment, this role requires strong judgment, excellent writing and the ability to manage multiple priorities while supporting long-term campaign goals and time-sensitive events and engagements.
Accountabilities:
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Accountable for developing, implementing and maintaining efficient and effective University communications strategies, specifically related to digital media
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Responsible for planning and evaluating McMaster's communications as it relates to digital media
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Develops and implements communication strategies that support University initiatives
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Works in a complex environment with multiple functions including examining, reviewing and assessing long-term goals as well as immediate needs for communications in digital media platforms
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Build effective communication projects by linking and working with other units, departments and leaders within the University
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Responsible for the creation of project budgets
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Supervise the editorial content of the Daily News website and the official University social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr)
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Identify emerging communication trends and tools and position the University for success in these appropriate channels
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Play a key role in supporting the University's digital communications to internal and external groups. Requiring sound judgement and decision making abilities and a high level of confidentiality.
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Plays a key role supporting planning for the University, planning and issuing digital communications to help build and preserve the University's reputation. Requiring a high level of confidentiality.
Qualifications:
Education:
A university degree (A McMaster degree is a Asset)
Experience:
Strategic Communicator with 3-5 years relevant experience
Knowledge/Skills:
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Computer knowledge, with proven technical experience managing digital tools including: WordPress, Cold Fusion, Social Media analytics and Social Media tools
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Demonstrated success in areas of media relations, strategic internal and external communications and in all social media platforms
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Understanding of new media and evolving media environment
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Demonstrated exceptional research and writing skills
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Knowledge of electronic media and media monitoring systems
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Proven ability to create budgets and understand financial documents
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Excellent oral communication skills
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Proven ability to maintain confidentiality
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Sound judgment and independent decision-making abilities
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Ability to lead, supervise and direct staff
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Ability to lead project teams and/or effectively contribute to a team. Strong project management skills
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Strong time management skills
Working at McMaster University
At McMaster, you will find a community of talented individuals who are inspired by the University’s Mission and the sense of purpose this mission brings. It is through these talented individuals, their creativity and drive for results that McMaster University has earned its reputation as being Canada’s “most innovative” University.
McMaster University strives to embody the values of integrity, quality, inclusiveness and teamwork, and has a strong commitment to employment equity. Building an inclusive community with a shared purpose is something that McMaster University prioritizes. They believe it is important for their workforce to reflect the diversity of their students and community. The diversity of their workforce is at the core of their innovation and creativity and is a key area that strengthens their research capabilities and teaching excellence.
Compensation & Benefits
To learn more about the total rewards available to the successful candidate, please access McMaster’s interactive guide with a summary of the compensation, benefits, retirement income, work life, development and career opportunities, and performance and recognition provisions offered at McMaster. To further explore the extensive total rewards program, detailed information can be accessed through the links throughout the guide. The starting salary will depend on factors such as relevant experience, qualifications, internal equity, and market conditions along with an excellent benefits package.
