๐ Core Information
๐น Job Title: Copywriter - Burnaby, BC
๐น Company: Specsavers
๐น Location: Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
๐น Job Type: Hybrid (3 days on-site, 2 days remote)
๐น Category: Retail - Optical Store
๐น Date Posted: June 4, 2025
๐น Experience Level: Mid-level (5-10 years)
๐น Remote Status: Hybrid
๐ Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
1. Crafting and refining copy across various formats to maintain brand tone of voice.
2. Supporting national campaigns, local marketing, and professional communications.
3. Collaborating with legal and clinical teams to ensure copy meets legal requirements and college regulations.
4. Managing multiple copywriting projects with varying complexities and timelines simultaneously.
5. Working cross-functionally with several different teams simultaneously.
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of retail marketing principles and the customer journey. The ideal candidate will have experience working with legal and regulatory input to assess and refine copy.
๐ Key Responsibilities
โ Write, edit, and proofread copy for various formats and business areas, including:
- National marketing campaigns (point of sale, out of home, email, direct mail, social media, digital ads, broadcast elements)
- Local marketing (new store openings, bespoke and ad-hoc requests, radio tags, direct mail, social ads)
- Professional marketing (long-form articles, advertorials, recruitment materials, LinkedIn posts, letters, newsletters, emails)
- CRM (letters, email, SMS for recall programs and platform change support)
- Corporate partnerships (bespoke webpages, posters, leaflets, vouchers, LinkedIn posts, other assets)
- In-store environment (price leaflets, guide to offers)
- Product launches and global copy adaptation
- PR and social (TOV checks and edits to copy)
โ Legal and Clinical Regulatory:
- Work closely with in-house legal and clinical teams to ensure all copy meets legal requirements and college regulations.
- Write and maintain a legal copy matrix bible in partnership with the in-house legal team.
- Write and adapt terms and conditions to fit offer messaging across all campaign channel assets.
โ Administration:
- Own and manage version control of all copy documents and edits to ensure only approved messaging is used on final assets.
- Intake feedback from various stakeholders to adapt copy when needed.
- Follow established ways of working, approval processes, and contribute to continuous improvement of ways of working.
- Document and provide status updates of legal and clinical messaging.
- Identify risks and roadblocks and escalate when needed; actively seek solutions.
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have experience managing multiple projects, intaking briefs, running materials through approval processes, and managing version control and naming conventions of documents.
๐ฏ Required Qualifications
Education:
- Relevant degree or diploma in a related field (e.g., English, Journalism, Marketing, Communications)
Experience:
- 4+ years in a copywriting role, preferably with a global or national brand, having worked agency-side or in-house.
- Experience working with legal and regulatory input to assess and refine copy.
- Experience managing multiple copywriting projects with varying complexities and timelines simultaneously.
- Experience working cross-functionally with several different teams simultaneously.
Required Skills:
- Proven expertise in writing engaging copy for various platforms and audiences.
- Strong command of the English language; experience with CP writing style an asset.
- Solid understanding of retail marketing principles and the customer journey.
- Experience and adaptability to copywrite, copyedit, and proof a broad scope of marketing assets.
- Expertise in enveloping established tone of voice within copywriting efforts.
- Pivots and adapts quickly while maintaining a calm demeanor in a consistently fast-paced and lively environment.
- Ability to manage multiple copywriting projects with varying complexities and timelines simultaneously.
- Exceptionally organized with experience intaking briefs, running materials through established approval processes, and managing version control and naming conventions of documents.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience working for a retail brand is an asset.
ASSUMPTION: While not required, experience working for a retail brand can provide valuable insights into the retail customer journey and in-store marketing strategies.
๐ฐ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: CAD 83,000 - CAD 94,000 per year (actual compensation will be based on experience)
Benefits:
- Generous vacation allotment and 1 paid volunteer day
- 1 extra paid day off and an eyecare voucher on your birthday
- RRSP matching
- Quarterly performance bonus
- Healthcare spending account
- Health and dental benefits effective on your first day
- Team and company social events
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for a mid-level copywriting role in the retail sector. Actual compensation may vary based on the candidate's experience and qualifications.
๐ Applicant Insights
๐ Company Context
Industry: Retail - Optical Store
Company Size: Medium (101-500 employees)
Founded: 1984 (as Specsavers Optical Group Ltd.)
Company Description:
- Specsavers is a global optical retailer and eyecare provider, ranked as the 11th Best Workplaceโข in Canada and 16th Best Workplaceโข in the world by Great Place to Workยฎ.
- The company supports over 2,700 healthcare businesses, caring for more than 44 million patients and customers worldwide.
- Specsavers offers advanced clinical equipment and an extensive range of affordable and high-quality eyewear, with a focus on transforming the eyecare experience in Canada.
Company Specialties:
- Retail optical services
- Eyecare and eyewear products
- Corporate partnerships and sponsorships
- Retail marketing and branding
- Optical technology and innovation
Company Website:
ASSUMPTION: Specsavers is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. They encourage candidates of all backgrounds and abilities to apply.
๐ Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level (5-10 years of experience)
Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Marketing Manager, working closely with cross-functional teams, including legal, clinical, and retail teams.
Work Arrangement: Hybrid (3 days on-site at the Burnaby, BC office, 2 days remote)
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential career progression into senior copywriting or management roles within the marketing department.
- Opportunities to work on high-impact campaigns and projects that drive business growth and customer engagement.
- Exposure to various aspects of retail marketing, allowing for the development of a well-rounded skill set.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for career growth and skill development within the marketing department and the broader retail industry.
๐ Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Hybrid (3 days on-site, 2 days remote)
Office Location(s): Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
Geographic Context:
- Burnaby is a suburban city located east of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- The city offers a mix of urban and natural environments, with easy access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions.
- Burnaby is well-connected by public transportation, with convenient access to downtown Vancouver.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (with flexibility for remote work)
ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement offers a balance between on-site collaboration and remote flexibility, allowing employees to optimize their work environment and productivity.
๐ผ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
1. Online application submission
2. Phone or video screening interview
3. In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager and/or team members
4. Final round interview with senior leadership or other stakeholders
5. Background check and reference check (if applicable)
6. Job offer and onboarding
Key Assessment Areas:
- Writing and editing samples or tests to assess copywriting skills and tone of voice adherence
- Behavioral interviews to evaluate problem-solving skills, adaptability, and cultural fit
- Scenario-based interviews to assess the candidate's ability to manage multiple projects and work effectively with cross-functional teams
Application Tips:
1. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role.
2. Prepare writing samples or a portfolio showcasing your copywriting skills and versatility.
3. Research Specsavers' brand tone of voice and company culture to demonstrate your understanding and alignment with their values.
4. Practice common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses that demonstrate your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
5. Follow up with the hiring manager after your interview to express your interest in the position and reiterate your qualifications.
ATS Keywords: Copywriting, editing, proofreading, marketing, retail marketing, legal compliance, project management, collaboration, adaptability, communication, organizational skills, customer journey understanding, tone of voice expertise, cross-functional teamwork, content creation, SEO knowledge
ASSUMPTION: The interview process for this role will focus on assessing the candidate's copywriting skills, cultural fit, and ability to manage multiple projects and work effectively with cross-functional teams.
๐ ๏ธ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop)
- Google Workspace (Gmail, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Slides)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Jira)
- Customer relationship management software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
- Content management systems (e.g., WordPress, Drupal)
- SEO tools (e.g., Google Search Console, SEMrush, Ahrefs)
ASSUMPTION: The required tools and technologies for this role may vary depending on the specific needs of the marketing department and the projects the candidate will be working on.
๐ Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Collaborative: We work together as one Specsavers to deliver our purpose.
- Curious: We question, explore, and seek out diverse perspectives to develop our knowledge and understanding.
- Courageous: We challenge the status quo, experiment with good ideas, and are brave, bold, and fast in our decision making.
- Compassionate: We care, support, and help each other.
- Commercial: We treat money wisely and make decisions that are good for our customers, our partners, our people, and good for the long term.
Work Style:
- Fast-paced and lively environment, requiring quick adaptation and calm demeanor.
- Collaborative and cross-functional teamwork, with a focus on delivering results and driving business growth.
- Data-driven and analytical approach to marketing and campaign development.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and accuracy in all aspects of the role.
Self-Assessment Questions:
1. How do you align with Specsavers' company values, particularly in a fast-paced and collaborative work environment?
2. Describe a time when you had to adapt quickly to a significant change or challenge in a project or work environment. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?
3. How do you approach working with cross-functional teams to deliver results and drive business growth?
4. How do you ensure the quality and accuracy of your work, particularly when managing multiple projects with varying complexities and timelines?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should carefully consider their alignment with Specsavers' company values and work style, and be prepared to provide specific examples of their skills and experiences that demonstrate their fit for the role and the company culture.
โ ๏ธ Potential Challenges
1. Managing multiple copywriting projects with varying complexities and timelines simultaneously may require strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize effectively.
2. Working with legal and regulatory input to assess and refine copy may necessitate a strong understanding of legal and regulatory requirements specific to the retail optical industry.
3. The fast-paced and lively work environment may require quick adaptation and a calm demeanor under pressure.
4. The role may involve working with cross-functional teams, requiring strong collaboration and communication skills to ensure effective communication and coordination.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their strategies for overcoming these potential challenges and their ability to thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced work environment.
๐ Similar Roles Comparison
1. This role differs from related positions in the retail industry, such as retail marketing managers or retail store managers, as it focuses specifically on copywriting and content creation for a national brand.
2. In comparison to other copywriting roles, this position offers a unique opportunity to work on a wide range of marketing assets and collaborate with various teams to bring messages to life across every touchpoint.
3. Career path comparison: This role may serve as a stepping stone to senior copywriting or management roles within the marketing department, or as a transition into other marketing or communications roles within the broader retail industry.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of the unique aspects of this role and how it differs from related positions in the retail industry.
๐ Sample Projects
1. Developing copy for a national marketing campaign, including point of sale materials, out of home advertising, email marketing, and social media content.
2. Creating content for a local marketing initiative, such as a new store opening or a targeted promotional campaign.
3. Writing and editing long-form articles or advertorials for professional communications or PR initiatives.
4. Adapting global copy for a Canadian audience and ensuring compliance with legal and clinical regulations for a product launch.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with similar projects and their ability to adapt copy to different formats, audiences, and regulatory requirements.
โ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
1. What are the most significant marketing campaigns or initiatives planned for the upcoming year, and how can this role contribute to their success?
2. How does this role fit into the broader marketing strategy and organization structure?
3. What are the primary challenges facing the marketing department, and how can this role help address them?
4. How does Specsavers support the professional development and growth of its employees, particularly in the marketing department?
5. What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this role, and how will success be measured?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to ask thoughtful questions that demonstrate their interest in the role and their understanding of the company's marketing strategy and goals.
๐ Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
1. Submit your application through the provided link: [Application URL]
2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role.
3. Prepare writing samples or a portfolio showcasing your copywriting skills and versatility.
4. Practice common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses that demonstrate your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
5. Follow up with the hiring manager after your interview to express your interest in the position and reiterate your qualifications.
โ ๏ธ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.