Education and Public Relations Job Description
Overview
The position of Education and Public Relations Coordinator will work under the direction of the Shelter Director to manage all aspects of the Saskatoon SPCA’s Education and Public Relations Department. This position will work collaboratively with the Shelter Director, The Donor and Public Relations Coordinator, the Volunteer and Public Relations Coordinator and Committees of the Board of Directors to enhance the image of the Saskatoon SPCA, improve community support and to develop humane education programs to foster harmonious relationships between animals and humans.
Qualities
Ability to motivate and energize others in a team environment; highly effective interpersonal communication skills, both written and verbal; highly organized with superior ability to prioritize, multi-task and meet deadlines; exceptional analytical and creative skills; and demonstrated sound judgment and tact. Proven ability to work independently, collaboratively, and as an effective team member and leader, to grow and develop in a changing environment, to work with a diverse group of people; and to maintain confidentiality.
Education and Experience
- Undergraduate degree and/or degree in Education / Early Childhood Development preferred; Minimum of Grade 12 and previous experience may be considered;
- Training and/or experience in fundraising, public relations and communications
- Training and/or experience in working with volunteers
- Previous experience in customer relations in a business environment;
- Must possess a high level of written and verbal communication skills;
- Familiarity with not-for-profit organizations;
Accountable for:
Education and Special Programs
- In conjunction with the Education Committee, identify and prioritize key topics to deliver to our audiences;
- Develop and maintain education materials and presentations on services provided, responsible animal stewardship, and animal welfare legislation;
- Assist in the development of strategies, activities and techniques for promoting humane education;
- Knowledgeable in the development of educational presentations, talks, and proven ability to deliver presentations that will captivate any audience;
- Coordinate public education efforts and activities, such as tours of our shelter and public presentations, and other public speaking engagements as assigned;
- Educate the public at large at every opportunity regarding the law, the well-being of animals, and the ethics of animal welfare;
- Assist in media relations on animal welfare issues.
- Work in cooperation and serve as the society’s representative to joint-agency meeting and events involving community education development.
Publicity and Special Events
- Assist in the organizing of special events to promote community awareness i.e.: educational materials / brochures at SPCA and community events etc.
- Develop and distribute positive marketing tools to solicit donations and to promote Shelter Services;
- Research and seek opportunities for positive public exposure and education;
- Assist in the planning, promoting and logistics for fundraising and promotional events;
- Arrange and participate in public relations and educational spots in the media;
- Evaluate the benefits of and coordinate participation in local events, tradeshows, fairs, etc.;
- Plan and assemble professional, appealing displays, while keeping within budget;
Nature of Work
- Self-directed with a high level of complexity;
- Occasional travel may be required;
- Weekend and evening work is sometimes required;
- Must possess a valid Saskatchewan Driver’s License and have own reliable transportation;
- Must have a genuine interest in and concern for the overall well-being of animals and
demonstrate empathy and compassion for shelter animals;
- Must be flexible and able to attend either early morning or late evening meetings.
Other Responsibilities
- Maintain company vehicles and equipment as per company policies;
- In conjunction with the Volunteer & Public Relations Coordinator and Donor and Public Relations Coordinator, supervise volunteers within the shelter, at various events and fundraising activities;
- Prepare detailed reports for Education Committee and Shelter Management to ensure our events are viable, profitable and within budget;
- Attend staff meetings and other meetings as required;
- Attend and participate in board committee meetings as required;
- Participate in public relations and promotional activities;
- Provide training and orientation to new staff and volunteers as required;
- May be required to supervise student placement;
- May be required to assume the responsibilities of a Supervisor in the absence of management;
- Develop and write articles for the newsletter that are applicable;
- Update and monitor all social media communications.
All other duties as assigned.