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About us        

We find solutions for living within the limits of nature. Through a combination of evidence based science and active public engagement, we seek to motivate Canadians to take action on the pressing environmental challenges we face. With headquarters in Vancouver and regional offices in Toronto and Montreal, we address issues from coast to coast to coast, in both official languages. With the support of scientists, academics, progressive businesses, governments, non-governmental organizations and hundreds of thousands of Canadians we aim to ensure that we all act every day on the understanding that we are one with nature, and protect nature’s diversity and the well-being of all life, now and for the future.

To find out more please visit www.davidsuzuki.org

The David Suzuki Foundation hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equality and diversity within its community and to a welcoming and inclusive workplace. We especially welcome applications from Indigenous persons, visible minority group members, women, persons with disabilities, people of all sexual orientations and genders, and others with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities.

Position Title: Communications Specialist, BC & Western Region

Terms: Two-year term contract with the possibility of extension (34 hours/week) 

Location: Based at our Vancouver office 

Reporting: Director, Western Region

Salary: $50,000 - $60,000 based on experience

Working with project managers, scientists, campaigners, policy analysts, and digital and engagement specialists, the Communications Specialist ensures strategic development and delivery of key David Suzuki Foundation messages and other communications to regional, and in some cases national, target audiences. 

This role will lead communications responses for all David Suzuki Foundation Western Region projects including biodiversity/wildlife conservation, protection of marine areas, fisheries reform, natural assets, sustainable seafood, wild salmon recovery, and aquaculture. Working with the Regional Director-General, the Specialist will ensure regional communication resources and capacity are secured effectively utilized. 

The Communications Specialist will also define and deliver on long-term regional audience engagement goals. Ongoing liaison with the Foundation’s Digital and Technology Department is required to help ensure content is shared optimally through all channels.

Responsibilities: 

• Working in collaboration with team members, lead communications responses for the Foundation’s Western Region projects including writing blogs/editorials, emails, news releases, briefing notes, and web and social media content
•  Contribute to the development of integrated strategies and content for communications, government relations, campaigns, funder reports, and project delivery to support DSF’s biodiversity goals 
• Work both within a team and across the organization to develop and deliver communications plans
• Assist in planning and executing public events, online engagement, media relations and other communications related activities
• Respond quickly and effectively to breaking environmental stories in Western Canada 
• Help develop presentations for internal and external audiences
• Share information across DSF departments and regions and among key stakeholders (academic, business, First Nations, municipalities, environmental groups, etc.) 
• Participate in Western Region coordination, planning and strategy sessions 
• Identify and respond to opportunities arising from the news cycle related to Western Region priorities
• Copy-edit reports when required
• Attend meetings, conferences, and public events on behalf of DSF as required

Required:

• Completion of a university degree and a minimum of five year’s professional work experience in communications
• Experience in a non-profit, community or government communications role and working with diverse stakeholders
• Media relations experience: working for media, getting earned media placed and/or responding to media requests
• Ability to effectively translate complex issues into simple narratives and messages. 
• Demonstrated success in strategic communications planning, objective setting and plan execution
• Demonstrated experience working successfully in a team environment
• Editorial experience (assignment, copy, web content, etc.) is required
• Self-starter – able to work independently or as part of a larger team 
• Excellent English language and writing skills 

Assets:

• Non-profit organization work experience
• Experience communicating about environmental and/or social justice issues
• Experience working with local, regional or provincial governments and First Nations
• Experience managing social media channels and websites using content management systems
• Experience working with non-profit networks or coalitions on shared goals (e.g. sign-on letters, court cases, news conferences)
• Research skills
• Project management experience
• French (or other language) skills

Application Process 

Please submit your cover letter and your resume online and submit your application by going to https://davidsuzuki.org/careers/ .  The position will stay open until filled. Only qualified applicants will be contacted.

We recognize the importance of a diversified workforce, and we encourage women, First Nations, Inuit and Metis candidates, members of visible minorities and persons with disabilities to apply.