Competition # 448

Head, Strategic Communications

As Canada's national laboratory for particle and nuclear physics and related sciences, TRIUMF operates in a complex environment guided by clear, compelling strategy that takes into account scientific, policy, political, and budgetary considerations. In support of our overall strategy and mission, we have an immediate opening for an innovative, self-driven, strategic communicator who will join our senior management team and oversee communications, media relations, education, and outreach. The successful candidate’s essential knowledge and skills will lie in leadership and communication in research in the field of particle and nuclear physics. The key objectives of this position are to:

  • Assist in the mitigation of operational and reputational risks
  • Increase public and stakeholder awareness and understanding of TRIUMF's mandates
  • Enhance employee morale through timely and effective communication of critical news and information
  • Build local interest in TRIUMF’s position on safety and the environment
As the successful applicant, you will be accountable for ensuring effective communications through the development and execution of a communications strategy that is aligned with TRIUMF’s vision and mission, while supporting the reputation and outreach needs of the laboratory. You will also oversee community relations, selected scientific and technical conferences, and internal communications within the laboratory. The supervisory responsibilities of this position will involve the oversight and performance management of the communications and outreach staff.

Key areas of focus will provide an opportunity to:

  • Oversee and manage the performance of the communications and outreach staff;
  • Partner with senior representatives from TRIUMF’s member universities to inform the laboratory's choices and build partnerships when mutually beneficial;
  • Engage TRIUMF's consortium and the TRIUMF Users Group to build participation in, and support for, the laboratory;
  • Anticipate, research, and advise on international science trends and changes;
  • Keep abreast of, or be directly involved in, all physics-related events such as conferences or industry announcements, at the local, national or international levels;
  • Develop, oversee, and advise on laboratory messaging or branding, including products such as print publications, displays, social media and the TRIUMF website, and reports;
  • Participate as a member of the Senior Management Team, representing communications and outreach;
  • Participate in planning and/or hosting high-level external review meetings as appropriate;
  • Support innovation and industrial partnership efforts with TRIUMF’s commercial arm AAPS through communication or media events when required;
Minimum qualifications include:
  • Advanced knowledge of communications with respect to science
  • Previous experience working with media (required) and in an academic environment (asset)
  • Strong oral presentation, promotional, and marketing skills
  • An understanding of TRIUMF’s research program and the ability to clearly communicate TRIUMF's mission, mandate, and direction are crucial
  • Leadership and forward thinking are necessary to carry out the responsibilities of the position
  • Demonstrated supervisory and team building skills
  • Solid interpersonal skills and the ability to create strong relationships based on trust and professionalism
  • Ability and willingness to travel is required
  • All qualified applicants will be given serious consideration, and in the case of equal qualifications, preference will be given to a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident.

    We offer:

    • 3 weeks’ vacation to start; 4 weeks after 2 years; plus time off between Christmas and New Years
    • Excellent dental, extended health, and vision care benefits; Retirement Pension Plan
    • 35 hour work week
    • Competitive hiring salary
    • An excellent opportunity to enhance your career portfolio in a high profile national research facility.

    Review of applications will commence on January 5th, 2015, and the position will remain open until filled.

    TRIUMF is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace, and we welcome applications from all qualified candidates. Your complete application package should be submitted by email to recruiting@triumf.ca and will include the following in one complete PDF file:

    Applications will be accepted until 2015-04-20

    TRIUMF Human Resources, 2014-11-21

    4004 Wesbrook Mall Vancouver, B.C. Canada V6T 2A3   ·   Tel: 604 222-1047   ·   Fax: 604 222-1074   ·   www.triumf.ca