Associate Director Advertising and Public Relations
Vancouver Community College is committed to maintaining a work force that represents the diverse community we serve and we encourage all qualified applicants to apply.
Position Information
Posting Number: 25AC0001
Position Title: Associate Director Advertising and Public Relations
Pclass #: A9951
Who We Are
We acknowledge that Vancouver Community College (VCC) is located on the traditional unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples who have been stewards of this land from time immemorial.
For over 55 years, VCC has been a leader in innovative, experiential post-secondary learning. We’re one of B.C’s top employers and we are proud to inspire students to discover their passions, gain essential skills, and learn what it takes to succeed in a competitive workforce.
At VCC, we respect and celebrate our differences, and are committed to the work of decolonization, accessibility, and inclusivity for all. Be a part of creating an inclusive community that provides equitable opportunities for Indigenous and diverse representation, participation, and success for everyone.
We value lived experience and encourage applications from members of all groups experiencing barriers to equity. Come join the VCC community as we shape the future together.
Position Summary
Reporting to the Executive Director, Marketing & Communications, the Associate Director, Advertising and Public Relations leads and manages a portfolio including all brand and recruitment advertising, digital and traditional media buying, media and government relations.
The Associate Director leads a diverse team of marketing and communication professionals to increase brand awareness for VCC and drive recruitment for the diverse programs VCC offers.
Duties & Responsibilities
Brand and Recruitment Advertising
1. As part of the Marketing and Communication leadership team, participates in the development of strategic initiatives and operational plans.
2. Leads the development of brand and recruitment advertising initiatives to drive consideration of VCC and registration for specific identified programs.
3. Responsible for all media buying—traditional and digital media—with the key objective of building brand equity and driving conversions.
4. Reporting on and monitoring all advertising, social media, and PR activities.
5. Oversees all social media strategy and activity with a focus on organic and purchased social media promotions.
6. Develops and refreshes brand guidelines and ensures these are communicated to the VCC community on a regular basis.
7. Oversees efforts to create, enhance, and promote VCC’s long-term brand equity, awareness, image, and market positioning.
8. Leads the annual planning, development, and implementation of new strategies that support the strategic direction of the College.
9. Collaborates with the creative services team and external vendors to develop all creative assets required for brand and recruitment advertising.
Operational and Budget Management
1. Review and monitor assigned budget and ensure accurate and timely accounting and reporting of expenses and analyze and resolve variances.
2. Develops and manages budgets for assigned special projects including vendor management.
3. Familiarizes and complies with all VCC Financial, Accounting, IT, Contract, and Purchasing Policies and Procedures.
4. Initiates, designs, implements, and completes negotiated/request for proposal (NRFP and RFP) process for contract projects and services.
Public Relations
1. Develops external communications strategies and proactively builds and maintains relationships with media and government to build brand equity.
2. Monitors developments and trends within external audiences to ensure they are addressed and communicated.
3. Collaborates with and responds to government and media requests in a timely and proactive way.
4. Monitors the value and coverage VCC achieves in media and develops monthly reporting.
5. Supports the Executive Director, Marketing and Communications with a high level of accuracy, professionalism, and flexibility with government communications.
Issues Management, Crisis, and Emergency Communications
1. Works collaboratively with the Associate Director, Internal Communications and Client Services to develop an external crisis communication plan when needed to ensure VCC is well positioned to communicate effectively during crisis.
2. Serves as a key member of VCC’s Emergency Operations Committee (EOC). During crisis situations, the Associate Director helps manage external communications to ensure media and government have accurate and timely information.
3. Determines the appropriate external communications strategy, key messages, and channels when responding to sensitive issues and critical situations.
4. Responsible for the selection, assignment, evaluation, training, and development of direct reports within the scope defined by College policy and the Collective Agreements. Fosters equitable practices and an inclusive culture that attracts and retains key talents.
5. Develops a high-performing team, ensuring a high standard of service delivery, competence, and providing developmental opportunities to improve their skills and achieve their career potential.
6. Provides clear direction on goals and priorities; ensures optimal deployment of resources to achieve goals.
7. Represents management in the grievance process and consults with People Services regarding collective agreement interpretation and application.
8. May act on behalf of and as a backup to the Executive Director, as required.
9. Performs other related duties as required.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
1. Bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related discipline.
2. Five (5) years experience leading integrated marketing teams including digital marketing and brand campaigns.
3. Five (5) years experience in Public Relations-media and/or government relations.
4. Experience working in a multi-union environment or post-secondary is an asset.
5. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Skills and Abilities
1. Demonstrated advanced knowledge of brand and advertising strategies, techniques, and concepts.
2. Excellent knowledge of media and government relations.
3. Strong strategic, operational planning, and organizational skills.
4. Excellent project management skills with the ability to effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize assignments, and meet budgets and deadlines in a high-pressure, fast-paced, changing environment.
5. Strong leadership skills with the ability to supervise, motivate, and lead a team.
6. Strategic, anticipates and takes initiative, creates innovative and creative solutions to solve problems with an effective use of resources.
7. Ability to effectively work and communicate with external stakeholders and internal colleagues, in a respectful, consultative, and service-oriented manner.
8. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships at all levels within the College and with outside agencies with a high degree of professionalism, tact, and discretion.
9. Exhibits discretion and ability to maintain confidentiality.
10. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Salary Range - Prorated based on FTE:
$101,172 – $134,896 – $155,130 annualized (Pay Grid 13). Normal starting salary placement is between $101,172 and $134,896. Compensation beyond the control/mid-point requires approval by the Public Sector Employer’s Council Secretariat (PSEC).
Employment Group: Administration
Type of Position: Permanent
Employment Type: Full Time
Department: MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Primary Location: This position may require you to work at all VCC locations.
Desired Start Date: May be subject to change 02/03/2025
Posting Open Date: 01/14/2025
Posting Close Date: 02/05/2025
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