📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Lead, Communications and Marketing Officer
🔹 Company: University of Toronto
🔹 Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
🔹 Job Type: Full-Time, Hybrid
🔹 Category: Communication/Media/Public Relations
🔹 Date Posted: May 14, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site with hybrid work arrangement
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and implementing integrated communication plans to support high-profile University initiatives and issues
- Overseeing the production of promotional and marketing materials
- Drafting and editing content for print and/or online communications channels
- Managing a small team and providing guidance on communication strategies
- Collaborating with leadership to establish a consistent brand identity and promote Faculty activities
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of strategic thinking, creativity, and strong leadership skills to manage a team and drive communication efforts across various channels.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Developing and implementing integrated communication plans to support strategic objectives
✅ Overseeing the production of promotional and marketing materials
✅ Drafting and editing content for print and/or online communications channels
✅ Managing a small team and providing guidance on communication strategies
✅ Collaborating with leadership to establish a consistent brand identity and promote Faculty activities
✅ Planning and managing projects, including timelines, resources, and schedules
✅ Preparing and presenting reports and recommendations for more efficient communications practices
ASSUMPTION: The role involves a mix of strategic planning, creative execution, and team management, with a focus on driving effective communication across various channels.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Journalism, English, Marketing, or a related field
Experience: Minimum five years of experience leading projects in communications, media, and/or marketing-related activities, preferably within an academic or large organizational context and/or creative field
Required Skills:
- Proven experience in implementing an integrated multi-channel communications strategy
- Experience writing and drafting communications and marketing plans and materials
- Exceptional writing, editing, and oral communications skills
- Proven organizational skills to establish priorities, adapt to changing priorities, and manage multiple projects concurrently
- Ability to work independently and collaborate with leadership and staff at varying levels
- Advanced MS Office skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Advanced skills designing web and social media (i.e., WordPress, Drupal, CSS, HTML, Instagram, Facebook, or equivalent)
- Working knowledge in design software skills (i.e., Adobe, InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator or similar software)
Preferred Skills:
- Experience planning and developing an integrated multi-channel communications strategy to support strategic objectives
- Experience working in an academic/large organizational context and/or creative field
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have a strong background in communications and marketing, with a proven track record of driving successful campaigns and managing teams.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: CAD 95,627 - 122,290 per year, with an annual step progression
Benefits:
- Competitive benefits package for full-time employees
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
- Work-life balance and flexible work arrangements
Working Hours: Full-time, with a hybrid work arrangement
ASSUMPTION: The salary range is based on the University of Toronto's pay scale for USW Pay Band 15. Benefits and working hours are subject to the University's policies and guidelines.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Higher Education
Company Size: 51-200 employees
Founded: The University of Toronto was founded in 1827 and is the oldest university in Canada
Company Description:
- The University of Toronto is a public research university in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, located on the northern shore of Lake Ontario
- It is widely recognized for the quality of its teaching and research and is considered one of the top universities in the world
- The Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design offers graduate programs in architecture, landscape architecture, urban design, forestry, and visual studies, as well as unique undergraduate programs
Company Specialties:
- Research-intensive university
- Academic programs in various fields
- Community engagement and outreach
Company Website: University of Toronto
ASSUMPTION: The University of Toronto is a large, research-intensive university with a strong reputation for academic excellence and innovation.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level to senior, with potential for growth and career advancement
Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Director of the Office of the Dean
Work Arrangement: Hybrid work arrangement, with a mix of on-site and remote work
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential for career advancement within the University's communications and marketing department
- Opportunities for professional development and skill-building
- Collaboration with various stakeholders, providing exposure to diverse aspects of the University's operations
ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for professional growth and development within the University's communications and marketing department.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: On-site with hybrid work arrangement
Office Location(s): St. George (Downtown Toronto) campus
Geographic Context:
- Toronto is a multicultural city with a diverse population and a vibrant arts and culture scene
- The University of Toronto's St. George campus is located in downtown Toronto, offering easy access to public transportation, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions
- The campus is known for its historic architecture and green spaces
Work Schedule: Full-time, with a hybrid work arrangement
ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement allows for a balance between on-site collaboration and remote work, providing flexibility and a better work-life balance.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening
- In-person or virtual interview with hiring manager and/or team members
- Final interview with the Director of the Office of the Dean
Key Assessment Areas:
- Communication skills and ability to develop and implement communication strategies
- Writing and editing skills
- Project management and team leadership skills
- Alignment with the University's mission and values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences
- Demonstrate your understanding of the University's mission and values
- Showcase your ability to develop and implement communication strategies
ATS Keywords: Communications, Marketing, Project Management, Writing, Editing, Brand Identity, Social Media, Content Development, Team Leadership, Research, Design Software, Digital Marketing, Presentation Skills, Organizational Skills, Stakeholder Engagement, Adaptability
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should tailor their application materials to highlight their relevant skills and experiences, demonstrating their fit for the role and the University's mission.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Design software (Adobe, InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator or similar)
- Web and social media platforms (WordPress, Drupal, CSS, HTML, Instagram, Facebook, or equivalent)
ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in relevant software and tools is essential for success in this role.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Excellence
- Inclusion
- Integrity
- Professionalism
- Accountability
Work Style:
- Collaborative
- Innovative
- Adaptable
- Results-driven
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you thrive in a collaborative, innovative environment?
- Are you adaptable and able to manage multiple projects concurrently?
- Are you committed to upholding the University's values of excellence, inclusion, integrity, professionalism, and accountability?
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should assess their fit with the University's values and work style to ensure a successful and fulfilling career.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing a team in a unionized environment
- Balancing multiple projects and priorities
- Adapting to changing priorities and deadlines
- Working in a large, complex organization with diverse stakeholders
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should be prepared to manage a team in a unionized environment and navigate the complexities of a large, research-intensive university.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is unique in its focus on communications and marketing within the Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design
- Similar roles in other faculties or departments may have different focuses or priorities
- Career progression may involve moving into a more senior role within the University's communications and marketing department or transitioning into a related field
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should research the University's organizational structure and the specific needs of the Daniels Faculty to understand the unique aspects of this role.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and implementing a communication strategy for a major University initiative
- Managing the production of promotional materials for a Faculty event or program
- Drafting and editing content for the Faculty's website, newsletters, or social media channels
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should be prepared to provide examples of their experience developing and implementing communication strategies, managing projects, and drafting and editing content.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the top priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
- How does this role fit into the overall communications and marketing strategy for the University?
- What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the University's communications and marketing department?
- How does the University support work-life balance for employees in this role?
- What is the team structure and dynamic within the Office of the Dean?
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should ask thoughtful questions to demonstrate their interest in the role and the University's mission.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences
- Prepare examples of your experience developing and implementing communication strategies, managing projects, and drafting and editing content
- Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your interest and reiterate your qualifications
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
