Senior Strategic Writer, Marketing Communications
CNIB Foundation, Canada

Summary:

This position falls under CNIB's Business Support Services (BSS) department, which provides services and support to three organizations: CNIB, CNIB Deafblind Community Services, and Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada.

The Senior Strategic Writer acts as the voice for the trusted brands in our portfolio by engaging stakeholders through exceptional communications. The position is responsible for researching, writing and editing a broad array of content and documentation to ensure the impact of CNIB’s cause-related work is clearly and persuasively communicated to key stakeholders, motivating them to commit their support to the organization. The position is also responsible for planning and advising on editorial and web content for a variety of communications projects and vehicles, assisting with the development of communications plans, and acting as senior editorial team lead.

This position reports to the Director, Marketing and Communications, and works closely with CNIB's broader marketing and communications team and assigned client groups.

II. Essential Functions

The position entails

• Conceptualize, write and edit a range of documentation relating to clients ongoing strategic and operational priorities, researching content where needed. Types of documentation may include:
  • Fundraising solicitations, including direct mail and email blasts
  • Government funding proposals and policy submissions
  • Impact and stewardship reports
  • Advertising and/or brochure copy
  • Website content
  • Speeches, speaking notes and presentations
  • Video scripting
  • Newsletter articles
  • Position statements
  • Correspondence
• Acts as Senior Editorial Team Lead, overseeing identified writing projects including editorial and quality control as required.
• Plan and advise on editorial strategy and specific content for a variety of communications projects and vehicles.
• Assist with the development of communications plans.
• Undertake and complete any specific content creation projects relating to special initiatives, including events and campaigns.
• Ensure all documents produced reflect CNIB’s brand voice and related standards.
• Present creative concepts and copy decks to internal audiences.
• Coordinate English-French translation and alternative format adaptation as needed, working directly with internal resources.
• Provide support in related administrative functions as required/assigned. This may include aspects of print production, scheduling, copy checking and proof approvals.
• Keeping abreast of all new media, marketing communications, and content development trends.

Requirements

Knowledge and Skill Requirements:

• Excellent conceptual and creative thinking skills.
• Proven ability to produce compelling copy for a range of communication vehicles.
• Proven ability to research and understand complex content, translate it into easy-to-read copy and dramatize relevant facts.
• Demonstrated presentation skills.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with internal and external organization stakeholders including senior management and President/CEO.
• Demonstrated computer skills.
• French-English bilingualism is an asset.

Experience and Education:

• Post-secondary graduate in print journalism, English, professional writing, communications, marketing/advertising or public administration.
• Minimum of five years of experience as a professional writer in an agency, corporate or public sector environment and an accompanying professional portfolio.
• Experience working in non-profit, philanthropy-driven organizations and/or government settings is an asset.

Work Environment:

• Willingness to work flexible hours.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Job Rewards and Benefits