Description:

As the GPO Press Secretary your primary role will be to work closely with the Director of Communications to write and distribute press releases, respond to questions from reporters, pitch news ideas and monitor media coverage. You will also write speeches, statements, and copy for other strategic communications to support development and fundraising. You will need to maintain relationships with media individuals and organizations, travel with the Leader or spokespeople representing GPO at public events and produce content for various media. 

While the legislature is sitting, the Press Secretary will be based at Queen’s Park. Travel within Ontario is necessary from time to time. Hours of work will include evenings and weekends. Flexibility is required. 

DELIVERABLES

• Work with Media
  • Produce clear and concise news releases and advisories on a timely basis
  • Find opportunities and execute plans that will expand GPO’s reach in the media
  • Distribute written materials via email and make follow-up calls
  • Respond to media inquiries in a timely manner
  • Plan press conferences 
  • Maintain relationships with media individuals and organizations
  • Organize advance media for GPO events and tours with local and provincial media

• Support the Leader and GPO Communications
  • Contribute to team strategic planning and execution 
  • Ensure cohesive message is delivered across platforms and communications objectives are met
  • Participate in regular team meetings
  • Accompany the Leader or spokespeople representing GPO to events from time to time as required
  • Assist with drafting speeches and letters
    
• Materials Production and Advertising
  • Support content development in other areas such as copy-writing for action campaigns, speeches, statements and social media from time to time. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• 2+ years experience in a communications, public relations, media relations, or preferably press secretary role
• Bachelor’s degree or college diploma in journalism, public relations, politics, or related field, or equivalent experience
• Exceptional writing and interpersonal communication skills with strong command of copy editing and proofreading
• Proven experience writing press releases, statements, op-eds and speeches
• Knowledge of and experience working with Ontario media, good media relations and established media contacts an asset
• Superior time management and organizational skills and ability to meet tight deadlines
• An analytical mind and ability to think critically with strong political acuity
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Strong computer skills with Google docs and Microsoft Office
• Knowledge of email marketing software, Creative Suite, Canva and social media platform software programs an asset
• Graphic design skills an asset
• Experience using multi-social posting programs such as Sprout Social an asset
• Proven knowledge of communications and marketing ethics and best practices
• Experience with political election campaigns an asset 
• Must reside in the GTA