Senior Communications Advisor (9-Month Contract)

About Us

The Ontario Cannabis Store provides safe, responsible access to recreational cannabis for adults 19 and older. We operate the sole legal online store for recreational cannabis in Ontario and are the provincial wholesaler of cannabis for private retail stores.

Working at the OCS is a unique opportunity to be part of an agile start-up in a ground-breaking new industry.  We’re a diverse team passionate about delivering a great customer experience, working together with mutual respect and building value out of our differences.  We’re an inclusive organization that understands that delivering great results comes out of ensuring every voice is heard.  

About the Role

We're seeking an exceptional Senior Advisor, Communications to join our team. The Senior Advisor will work closely with leaders on high-profile communications and stakeholder initiatives that directly impact the reputation and success of the OCS.

As a forward-thinking strategic communicator, the Senior Communications Advisor will influence outcomes through superior communication skills, advise on and evaluate communications required for the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS), develop compelling strategic communications, and drive the OCS’s mission forward on diverse platforms and with diverse audiences by working collaboratively across the business.

About Your Day

• Develop, implement, and evaluate communications strategies and integrated communications programs, which may include communications plans, media relations, issues management, stakeholder engagement and content development. 
• Develop relationships across the business and with external stakeholders that are built on trust and service excellence
• Collaborate across the business and with external stakeholders to integrate strategic engagement efforts with overall organizational objectives
• Provide input and recommendations on the development of corporate communications by advising on best practices for reaching target audiences and mitigating risk
• Ensure the accuracy and reliability of information disseminated through various communication channels by collaborating with content creators and subject-matter experts
• Create and provide quality control for a wide range of communications products including (but not limited to) presentations, key messages, emails, promotional material, social media content, press releases, backgrounders, briefing notes, and fact sheets
• Ensure content developed is engaging, consistent across all channels, aligned with the corporate identity and editorial standards
• Support with the management of external corporate events, including content creation and event management
• Work closely with different departments and external vendors to ensure events meet the needs of the intended audience, support OCS objectives and are seamlessly executed
• Measure and evaluate the success of events (debrief, satisfaction surveys, etc.) and suggest improvements where necessary
• Develop and use environmental scanning and media monitoring strategies to identify emerging issues and risk and develop strategic responses
• Perform in-depth analysis of trends, stakeholder needs, and market dynamics to inform strategic planning and communications initiatives

About You         

• Completion of post-secondary education in a related area of study OR equivalent combination of experience and post-secondary education
• Completion of post-secondary education in Communications, Media Studies or Journalism is preferred
• 3-5 years of experience working in communications or related field
• 5+ years of experience working in communications or related field is preferred 
• Experience working in a highly regulated industry is preferred
• Experience within the public sector is preferred
• Exceptional verbal and written communications skills and strong organizational skills
• Solid understanding of the Canadian media landscape and a passion for social media, online trends and the latest tools/communication platforms
• Previous experience in earned media, media relations or journalism
• Experience using Meltwater or other media monitoring tools
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build and sustain positive working relationships
• Strong attention to detail and analytical skills
• Experience working in a highly regulated industry is an asset Experience within the public sector is an asset
• Fluency in the French language is an asset

About the Job

• This position currently offers a hybrid work schedule. The current in office requirement is a minimum of 3 days/week (may be more depending on business needs). The OCS office is located near York Mills and Yonge Street. However, OCS reserves the right to change this policy and its office location at any time.
• City: Toronto, ON 
• Employment Type: 9-Month Contract Full-Time
• Required Travel: Rare, usually within the GTA

Compensation

The target hiring range for this position is $85,000- $95,000. This is a pay grade 6 role, with a salary range of $71,066.63- $106,316.64. Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.

We are committed to providing an accessible, equitable and inclusive candidate and employee experience. We provide reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process and in employment. If you require an accommodation please let us know, we will work with you to meet your needs.