Publication and Communications Specialist

Competition 2425

This position is a part of the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).

This position has a term length of two years from the date of hire and offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the China Institute

The China Institute is a high-profile research centre and university think-thank reporting directly to the Office of the Provost and Vice Provost (Academic). First established in 2005 with an endowment of 37 million, the China Institute has now become the largest interdisciplinary China study centre in Canada and one of the leading Institutes in North America focusing on cutting- edge and policy relevant contemporary China studies. Every year, the Institute organizes many international conferences, seminars and other events in Canada and in China that bring together senior government, industry and academic leaders from Canada, China and around the world.

The China Institute receives multiple additional grants every year from government and granting agencies to provide research and training programs. The Institute also runs a large granting program that provides significant funding to support China-related research, learning, community and campus wide initiatives. Widely recognized as a go-to place for China expertise, members of the China Institute conduct on average 60-80 media interviews on an annual basis.

Position

Jointly reporting to the Operations Director and the Head of Research, the incumbent plays a key role in supporting the Research team in synthesizing the research products and identifying suitable venues to mobilize the research results. With their in-depth knowledge of China, Canada-China, US-Canada-China relations, the employee is expected to identify proper communication platforms and provide strategic advice to the leadership team to publicize the work that ITC does. They also review and revise the content produced by the research team to ensure its appropriateness for the communication platforms. In consultation with the TCI leadership team, the incumbent writes and edits content across multiple channels including reports, articles, brochures, social media, websites, blog, etc. They will be asked to participate in TCI research projects.

Duties

Communications Strategy and Planning

• In consultation with the TCI leadership team and External Relations, develop strategic communication plan and tactics with a solid understanding of the priorities of TCI and the UofA.
• Creates, tracks and manages the workflow and process for projects and initiatives such as publications, annual reports, etc.
• Analyzes communications data/trends and makes recommendations to position TCI as a credible think-tank.
• Gather background information and facts to frame messaging and write/prepare communications deliverables.
• Resolve communications issues in consultation with the TCI leadership team and External Relations as they arise.
• Identify and recommend opportunities for proactive positioning of the TCI in various communication platforms
• Collaborates with colleagues at TCI and the UofA to ensure consistency and coordination of messaging, planning and processes.

Editing and Publication

• Review content produced by the research team to ensure its appropriateness for the target audience and edits accordingly.
• Coordinate, facilitate and monitor the publication/editorial process with the research team, designing staff and in consultation with TCI leadership team.
• Assess the writing style appropriate for the message.
• Check for accuracy with the subject matter experts.
• Create or recommend internal and external content and channels (social media, website, newsletters, blogs, etc) to enhance TCI profile.
• In consultation with the TCI leadership team, write and edit content across multiple channels including reports, articles, brochures, social media, websites, blog, etc.

Research Assistance

• Participate in TCI research projects.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Social Sciences or Humanities.
• Relevant admin and research experience in international relations involving Canada, China, US in an academic institution or a think-tank.
• In-depth knowledge of China and its current issues.
• Ability to write and edit academic papers or policy reports.
• High proficiency with MS Office and google suite applications.
• In-depth knowledge of communication tools and platforms.
• Experience participating or managing research projects is an asset.