Senior Communications Specialist - #450077

Senior Communications Specialist

College of Pharmacists of Manitoba, Winnipeg

The College of Pharmacists of Manitoba (CPhM) is seeking a Senior Communications Specialist to lead its communications team. The Senior Communications Specialist takes initiative on projects, identifies opportunities to improve communication workflows and organizational efficiency, and demonstrates strong strategic thinking. The ideal candidate can work independently, understands how to tailor communications to diverse audiences, and brings a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset. This role also includes mentoring and overseeing the work of a junior associate (communications coordinator), leading special projects, and working cross-functionally with staff to meet evolving communication needs.

About the Position

The successful candidate will be a detail-oriented, tech-savvy, dynamic communications professional who will elevate the narrative of CPhM by crafting impactful communications that advance the organization’s legislated mandate, strategic priorities, and general public engagement.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Editorial and Internal Communications

• Organize and lead editorial planning meetings with the Communication Coordinator
• Oversee the strategic direction of all internal publications such as Friday Five and quarterly newsletters
• Identify and implement strategies to increase registrant engagement and leadership

Digital Strategy and Data

• Oversee digital analytics reporting; generate insights and monitor communication KPIs
• Maintain and refine social media strategy, including content, scheduling, engagement, and reporting
• Manage digital transformation projects in collaboration with consultants and vendors
• Ensure accessibility and effectiveness across communication platforms

Media, Public Relations & Crisis Communications

• Monitor provincial and national media coverage relevant to CPhM and pharmacy regulation
• Lead media relations efforts and serve as spokesperson when designated
• Develop key messages, media protocols, and briefing materials
• Design and implement a media relations strategy and media training for leadership and Council

Mentorship and Staff Oversight

• Provide day-to-day guidance, mentorship, and support to the Communications Coordinator
• Review and approve drafted articles, communication strategies, and social media content
• Offer regular feedback to support growth in writing, planning, and digital engagement
• Participate in setting goals and contribute to performance reviews
• Foster a collaborative, supportive work environment that encourages skill development and ownership of projects

Strategic Communications Projects

• Develop the Annual Report strategy and oversee its production
• Lead the communications plan for Safety IQ in collaboration with Field Operations and the Communications Coordinator
• Develop communications components of educational modules for pharmacy professionals

Organizational Reporting and Leadership

• Oversee Strategic Plan reporting processes, including collecting staff data and preparing Council and public materials
• Fulfill responsibilities of the Data Protection Officer as per CPhM policy
• Mentor the Communications Coordinator through project work and regular feedback
• Contribute to cross-departmental projects and organization-wide communication planning

SPECIAL PROJECTS AND STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

The Communications Specialist is responsible for identifying, leading, and implementing special projects that enhance CPhM's strategic communications capacity. These may include but are not limited to the following:

• Refining and implementing the updated CPhM Editorial Guide across departments
• Developing a Brand Guide for use in marketing materials and internal documentation
• Creating a media relations strategy, including proactive engagement and response protocols
• Designing and implementing media training for leadership and Council members
• Developing a Crisis Communications Strategy to guide the organization through high-stakes scenarios
• Creating a Cybersecurity Communications Plan in alignment with IT and Data Protection protocols

Qualifications

To succeed in this role, you should possess:

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Post-secondary education in communications, journalism, public relations, or related discipline or an equivalent combination of education and related experience
• Skill – specific certifications (e.g., crisis communications, digital marketing, media training) are considered an asset

EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS

• Minimum five years’ experience in communications management; experience in a regulatory or professional environment is considered an asset
• Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with experience adapting voice and tone for varied audiences
• Proven experience creating multi-channel content (web, social, print)
• Experience in planning and executing strategic communication initiatives
• Strong understanding of media relations and stakeholder communications
• Experience with web content management (e.g., WordPress), and virtual communication tools (e.g., Zoom, GoTo Meeting)
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and analytics/reporting tools

Working at the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba

• Full-Time Schedule: This is a permanent position, Monday to Friday, totaling 37.5 hours per week.
• Flexible Work Options: A hybrid work model is available.
• Occasional Overtime: On occasion, overtime may be required, which will be compensated with time off in lieu.
• Occasional Travel and Presentations: There may be occasions where attendance or presentations at other locations are required.

About the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba

The College of Pharmacists of Manitoba was established in 1878 and is the pharmacy regulatory and licensing authority in Manitoba. The legislated mandate of CPhM is to serve and protect the public interest.

CPhM operates on an annual cycle, with great variety in projects and responsibilities throughout the course of a year. This information-driven work is extremely meaningful; a job well done has a powerful, positive impact on staff, interested and affected parties, and the general public.

The staff functions as a small, supportive team working in a friendly, highly collaborative environment. Staff are bound closely by a commitment to serving the public interest and have shared values of integrity, respect, accountability, and lifelong learning.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter and resume to: https://www.fitzii.com/apply/93890

Applications will be reviewed as received until the position is filled.

At CPhM, we value diversity and inclusion and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.

We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.