18 Oct
University of Alberta Students' Union
1710
Description
The External Relations Specialist (ERS) is a key communications and external relations resource for the University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU). Reporting jointly to the Director of Research and Advocacy and the Director of Marketing and Communications, the Specialist advises staff and the Executive Committee on how to promote the UASU’s student advocacy priorities. The Specialist is responsible for assisting with public-facing Executive communications and advocacy in the municipal, provincial, and federal government spheres. This may also include day-to-day supervision and mentorship of an undergraduate campaign coordinator.
This is a full-time permanent position: 37.5 hours per week,
primarily during normal working hours but also involving some weekend and evening work as needed. As circumstances and the Specialist’s comfort and safety permit, this position may involve travel.
Job Responsibilities
1. Assist staff and and Executives in planning advocacy efforts toward University of Alberta administration and all levels of government.
2. Assist staff and Executives in developing communications strategies.
3. Assist in providing staff support for Executives’ participation in partner organizations, including the Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS) and the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA).
4. As assigned, provide staff support for Executives at conferences and government relations meetings.
5. Support staff in developing communications strategies and materials.
6. Provide education and training on communications and media matters for staff or Executives.
7. As assigned, support Executives and Marketing and Communications staff in media relations.
8. Prepare short-term projects, such as fact sheets,
briefings, or campaign material copy.
9. Assist staff and Executives in creating submissions to government and other advocacy documents on student issues.
10. As assigned, assist staff and Executives in drafting and amending political policies.
11. Create and maintain records on political issues and trends, legislation, meetings with government, and relations with partner organizations for the purpose of creating permanent institutional memory.
12. Collect and catalog a variety of data relevant to post-secondary education for strategic advice to staff and Executives.
13. As assigned, assist partner organizations with research, policy development, and communications strategy.
14.
Report regularly to the Director of Research and Advocacy and the Director of Marketing and Communications on all job functions, including political climate, emerging issues, and work with partner organizations.
15. Perform any other job-related duties as required.
Qualifications
1. Degree from a recognized post-secondary institution, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
2. Experience in political campaigns, organizing, and/or advocacy toward municipal, provincial, or federal governments.
3. Experience in public-facing communications.
4. Demonstrated ability to advise decision makers and take direction while working as part of a team.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
▶️ External Relations Specialist
🖊️ University of Alberta Students' Union
📍 1710