Local job posting

Communications Coordinator
The Arthritis Society, Atlantic Divisions
1.0 FTE position: August 2009
Location: Halifax

The Arthritis Society is Canada’s principle health charity which empowers the nearly 4.5 million Canadians with arthritis to live their lives to the fullest by combating the daily limitations of arthritis. Over the last 60 years, The Society has invested $165 million towards arthritis research to develop better treatments and ultimately find a cure.

The Arthritis Society is seeking an experienced Communications Coordinator to coordinate Atlantic Region Divisions’ communication activities and initiatives, and working in support of the programs and services, and revenue development teams in both Divisions.

Reporting to the Executive Director, Atlantic Region, the Communications Coordinator is the key individual responsible for raising the awareness and profile of the Division in support of its mission, and for researching, planning and initiating external relations activities for the Divisions.

Key parts of this role will be to provide advice and support to regional staff in the areas of media and public relations, lead proactive external relations activities, and create verbal and written content for several publications, including but not limited to, our print newsletter, month e-newsletter, stewardship, promotional and informational materials.
The successful candidate will use solid judgment and knowledge to further the organization’s revenue development.

Major duties and responsibilities:
Develops and produces TAS publications in accordance with the strategic communication plan, develops production schedules and editorial assignments
Acts as initial contact for media inquiries, coaches and assists staff as required to respond to media requests.
Oversees and monitors the TAS brand image both internally and externally to ensure consistency to National and local protocols.
Develop internal and external plans for a Communications plan, including TAS Awareness campaigns, with criteria for measuring outcomes.
Conduct periodic evaluations of TAS publications to ensure they meet the organization’s goals.
Develops and coordinates placement of print ads.
Assists with media relations, develops and distributes PSA’s, press releases, advisories etc.
Coordinates the publication of TAS print materials including liaising with printers.
Manages the website ensuring content is current, appropriate and consistent with other communication initiatives.
Participates as member of the National Communications staff team and disseminates Information as needed to other staff.
Works collaboratively with all members of the Atlantic Region. Staff and volunteer team.




Qualifications:
Post-secondary education in a relevant discipline.
Proven successful experience (minimum 3 years) in communications, preferably in the health charity sector
Demonstrated success in media/public relations.
Knowledge of the spectrum of communication methods.
Excellent communication (written and oral) and presentation skills.
High-level computer skills, including adobe creative suite.
Knowledge and experience in advocacy initiatives
Exceptional interpersonal skills.
Collaborative team player, able to establish and maintain positive working relationships, both internally and externally to achieve the goals of The Society.
Well-developed time management and organizational skills.
High degree of initiative, self-motivation and integrity
Adaptable with a willingness to be flexible, versatile and/or tolerant in a changing work environment while maintaining effectiveness and efficiency.
Bilingual French/English is considered an asset.

Please forward your resume to:
Executive Director, Atlantic Region
The Arthritis Society
6960 Mumford Rd.
Suite S13
Halifax NS B3L 4P1