Coordinator, Communications

JOB SUMMARY

Ottawa Public Library (OPL) provides accessible, innovative library and information services throughout the City of Ottawa, that meet the unique needs of diverse communities, delivered through a range of vehicles and reflecting a citizen-centred approach.

You carry out the duties and responsibilities of one of the following assigned service areas: Adult & Readers’ Advisory, Reference, Children’s & Youth, Digital Services, Community or District Branch, Circulation, Access, Outreach and Volunteer, Collection Development, Technical Services, InfoService, or Communications.

You also: perform administrative and human resource management duties; participate in the development of policies, procedures and objectives for library services; maintain an up-to-date knowledge and expand awareness of Library developments; establish and maintain liaisons with internal and external contacts; and exercise responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the library branch/service.

Work is performed within the context of the policies and framework of the Library corporate culture as embodied in the Mission Statement, Core Values, Customer Experience Guidelines and the Canadian Federation of Library Association position statements on Intellectual Freedom and Diversity and Inclusion, with particular emphasis on providing customer service excellence.

The Coordinator, Communications carries out communications duties by:

• Leading the execution of communication strategies and plans that promote library services, programs, and initiatives to the community. 
• Serving as point-of-contact and coordinator for all communications, ensuring messages are crafted clearly, approved swiftly, and distributed through appropriate channels. 
• Overseeing the library’s brand, tone, and messaging across all internal and external platforms, including print, web, and social media. 
• Overseeing the library website and digital communication platforms, ensuring information is current, engaging, and accessible. 
• Coordinating with multiple departments leadership at various levels to gather key messaging and updates for both internal and external use. 
• Monitoring communication effectiveness using analytics, surveys, and community feedback; adjust strategies as needed. 
• Crafting and editing high-quality content such as press releases, blog posts, event and program promotion materials, internal announcements, etc. 
• Ensuring accessibility and inclusivity in all communications materials and messaging 
• Assisting with crisis communication planning and implementation 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of 4-year university degree in Communications or a related field.

Master's degree is desirable.

Minimum of four (4) years of progressively increased responsibilities in strategic and operational communications.

KNOWLEDGE

• General knowledge of Library policies and procedures.
• Supervisory techniques and practices.
• Effective communication tactics and techniques using traditional and web-based channels
• Trends in communications industry and approaches
• Microsoft Office and related software such as Adobe InDesign suite
• Photography and videography
• Local and current events
• Effective media relations
• City governance, initiatives, programs and services
• Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to prepare comprehensive communications strategies
• Ability to influence and inform stakeholders regarding the application of communications tactics and techniques

• Effective verbal communications, writing and editing skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to liaise with graphic designers, printers, translators, advertising agencies, etc.
• Ability to organize promotional and media events
• Ability to be creative and think logically
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Time management skills

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment
• Ability to work directly with City staff, elected officials and senior management
• Ability to identify issues in the public domain

Core Behaviours
Core behaviours define the City's expectations of the behaviours employees should demonstrate in performing their work.  They are reflective of the City's culture and values and guide all our present and future activities.  Every employee is encouraged to learn, embody, and demonstrate these core behaviours.

Review the Core Behaviours.

Leadership Competencies
The City has defined key competencies that leaders are expected to embody and demonstrate to successfully move the organization towards achieving its strategic objectives and create an organizational culture that supports and empowers employees to excel, grow and reach their full potential. These leadership competencies and associated behaviours are expected to be demonstrated by leaders at all levels of the organization. 

Review the Leadership Competencies.