Media Relations Officer

Media Relations Officer (Full-time, Permanent)

Department and

Location:

Communications, Queen's Park. Status:
Full Time, Permanent. Salary: $87,128.95/year. Vacancy Status:
Replacement

To assist the Leader and Caucus in carrying out their public, parliamentary, and caucus responsibilities by coordinating the development and implementation of media relations strategies based on strategic themes and priorities.

To assist the Leader and MPPs in delivering the NDP message across the province.

• Execute media relations and related activities necessary to disseminate the platform of the Leader and Caucus as widely as possible
• Develop media relations strategies and public relations projects
• Co‑ordinate work with the other media relations, communications, research and MPP staff
• Write, edit, seek and incorporate feedback and distribute news releases, speeches, articles, op‑eds, and other materials as required
• Support the maintenance of contact lists of journalists and newsrooms throughout the province
• Build and maintain relationships with newsrooms and media throughout the province
• Monitor media coverage of the NDP Leader and caucus and provide timely, politically savvy analysis
• Generate ideas for effective bought and earned media
• Provide briefings in preparation for media events, interviews or public events
• Arrange detailed media appearances, interviews or public appearances for members of the caucus
• Participate in all aspects of media event planning and execution, including press conferences, interviews, photo opportunities and more
• Other related duties as required and assigned

• Completed post‑secondary education, preferably in journalism, communications or a related field
• Knowledge of the NDP, the Ontario government and the workings of the Legislature
• Previous experience in journalism or media relations, preferably in a political or legislative environment
• Experience, knowledge and involvement with media outlets across Ontario
• Experience and knowledge in communications planning, marketing and public relations
• Proven ability to work in a team environment
• Proven ability to manage a variety of issues and projects simultaneously
• Excellent political judgment and the ability to perceive and pursue news angles and political opportunities in the daily flood of information
• Proven ability to work energetically, without supervision, to produce accurate and effective work, often under very tight deadlines
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, ability to deal with the public and members of the press
• Solid experience in research and translating research for a broad audience
• Ability to write succinctly, powerfully and quickly
• Exceptional editing skills essential, with knowledge of Canadian Press style
• Competence with social media and web maintenance an asset
• Willingness to work irregular hours including weekends and to travel
• Experience in the labour movement or NDP organization and election campaigns would be an asset
• Proficiency in French is an asset
• Familiarity with equity, anti‑racism and anti‑oppression policy frameworks

The NDP Caucus is an equal opportunity employer. Accommodation for job applicants with disabilities is available on request.