The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) is currently looking for a senior public affairs advisor. Reporting to the Manager of Communications and Public Affairs, as the Communications lead for an assigned client portfolio, this role will provide integrated communications services. In particular, it will involve conducting strategic needs analyses, providing advice and action-oriented planning, and developing and implementing strategies, approaches and initiatives. The ideal candidate will also bring experience in identifying and mitigating risks to ensure the excellence in the management of public affairs within IDRC and that business needs are met.

The person appointed will also lead corporate communication projects by developing, delivering and evaluating corporate communications strategies, policies, approaches and initiatives that increase awareness, understanding and support for IDRC among key audiences including Parliamentarians.

Education                         

• Graduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. communications, journalism, public relations, political science) or an acceptable combination of significant experience in communications and education.

Experience

Position requires minimum of five years of recent generalist communications (i.e. public affairs, media relations, issues management, outreach and events) experience, which includes:

• analyzing communications needs and providing timely strategic advice to senior management and staff;
• developing and implementing multi-faceted communications strategies and approaches;
• identifying and executing outreach and engagement opportunities for targeted audiences;
• researching, analyzing impact/risk and making recommendations on how to best address communications emerging news, trends and issues;
• managing corporate level communications projects including delivery of training; and
• writing and editing variety of communications products such as for print, on the web, public presentations, speeches, etc.

Language

• Bilingual position (English / French) at an advanced level

Knowledge

• Sound understanding of IDRC’s mandate, its activities and the environment in which it operates
• Knowledge of the federal political environment, its processes and its key players
• Strong knowledge of communications best practices, approaches and tools including social media

Competencies

• Superior strategic thinking, analytical, judgment and problems solving skills
• Strong leadership and project management skills
• Highly developed interpersonal, verbal communications and public speaking skills
• Excellent writing and editing skills across a variety of communication formats
• Ability to provide clear and articulate advice which persuades, influences, and informs
• Ability to take initiative and adapt quickly to change
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and competing priorities, work independently and collaboratively as part of a team and meet tight deadlines
• Tact, creativity and flexibility

Additional Information

For more information regarding primary duties or responsibilities, view Job Details.

The closing date for applications is the 3rd April 2016.