Communications & Engagement Specialist

ABOUT SACRED WATERS

Sacred Waters Developments Ltd (SWD) is dedicated to fostering economic and social development opportunities for the Katzie, Kwantlen, and Semiahmoo First Nations.

The organization aspires to evolve into a multifunctional corporation, strategically providing services and economic development opportunities aligned with the group’s collective vision. Its mission extends beyond internal initiatives, intending to offer these services to external clients while also addressing the specific needs of the Kwantlen, Semiahmoo, and Katzie First Nations. The overarching goal is to foster sustainable economic prosperity and expand upon economic opportunities that arise from collaborative nation-to-nation negotiations.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

SWD is looking for a Communications and Engagement Specialist. The ideal candidate is a dynamic and experienced professional with a strong background in communications, public engagement, and strategic planning. They are a self-starter who thrives in a start-up environment, demonstrating the ability to take initiative and manage multiple tasks efficiently. This candidate is skilled in developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies, with a proven track record in creating and executing campaigns that enhance organizational visibility and engagement.

They possess exceptional writing and verbal communication skills, adept at tailoring messages for diverse audiences. Experience working with First Nations and/or Indigenous communities, particularly in contexts related to land development, sustainability, or public policy, is highly valued. Additionally, they bring expertise in managing consultant teams and have a deep understanding of public engagement principles and techniques.

ROLE SUMMARY

As a member of the Planning team, the Communications and Engagement Specialist will have the opportunity to contribute to innovative planning activities, strategic initiatives, and development projects. This role will liaise with internal and external team members to develop and execute effective communications and engagement strategies for Sacred Waters’ projects and corporate initiatives.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic communications

• Oversee implementation of the strategic communications plan for SWD.
• Lead brand launch and roll-out across SWD’s channels, including monitoring for adherence to the SWD brand guidelines.
• Manage corporate social media accounts to generate awareness and build SWD’s profile
• Collaborate to develop communications campaigns for initiatives, projects, etc.
• Lead development of communications materials, including media releases, project briefs, print materials, and digital media materials.
• Liaise with other agencies and partners to ensure timely and coordinated distribution of communications materials.
• Prepare regular updates to community members in SWD shareholder Nations.
• Monitor and coordinate responses to media inquiries.

Public, stakeholder, and shareholder engagement

• Develop engagement plans and outreach strategies to enhance engagement with community members in SWD’s shareholder Nations.
• Facilitate virtual and in-community engagement sessions, including interviews, focus groups, small groups, and community meetings.
• Lead virtual and in-person engagement sessions relating to SWD’s projects.
• Coordinate with external consultants to ensure that public engagements for SWD development projects meet or exceed municipal requirements.
• Lead targeted engagement with SWD project stakeholders.
  Prepare engagement summary reports for senior leadership and the Board of Directors.

Project management

• Direct and oversee communications and engagement consultant teams, including administration of consultant contracts (invoice tracking, scope management, contract administration).
• Develop and implement tools to manage communications and engagement work tasks.
• Report to senior leadership and Board of Directors on communications and engagement activities.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in communications, marketing, public relations, or a related discipline plus a minimum of 5 years’ experience in a related field. An equivalent combination of training, education, and experience will also be considered.
• Thorough knowledge of leading principles, practices, and techniques relating to in-person and virtual public engagement.
• Experience designing, coordinating, and leading facilitated engagement sessions, including small and large group facilitation.
• Proven track record of preparing a wide range of internal and external communications materials, including briefing notes, engagement summary reports, press releases, holding messages, and social media collateral.
• Experience leading or contributing to the creation of communication campaigns, including social media awareness-building campaigns.
• Experience managing and directing consultant teams (e.g., budget management, invoice tracking, progress tracking).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with an ability to adapt communication style to suit a variety of audiences.
  Proficient in MS Office software (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook).
• A valid driver’s license is required.

The following will be considered an asset:

• Experience working with First Nations and/or Indigenous communities.
• Previous experience in communications and engagement initiatives related to the topics of land development, housing, real estate, sustainability, or public policy.
• Familiarity with Adobe Suite, Canva and/or other graphic design tools.
• Foundational training from IAP2.