Senior Specialist Communications

Job ID:                                COT-2024-13
Job Title:                           Senior Specialist Communications
Division:                           Office of the Chief Information Security Officer
Reports To:                     Deputy CISO
Salary Range:              $122,000.00 to $158,105.00
Work Location:         55 John Street, Toronto
Job Type:                        Permanent Full Time
Shift Information:    Monday to Friday, 35 hours work week

JOB SUMMARY:

To support the execution of the Chief Information Security Officer’s (CISO) mandate, cyber vision and strategy, providing business advice, support and services to all City divisions, agencies and corporations.

To lead the development of communications strategies internally across the division and externally to engage all City divisions, agencies and corporations, including designing engaging, innovative and compelling content for online, email, print layout and design.

 MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develops and executes communications strategies to build brand awareness and boost cyber security knowledge, aligned with the objectives and strategies of the Office of the CISO and Strategic Public and Employee Communications (SPEC).
  • Develops and executes communications for new programs, policies, and changes that support corporate cyber programs and initiatives.
  • Coodinates with the Strategic Public and Employee Communications (SPEC) division to deliver effective communications that align with the broader organizational strategy and drive measurable impact.
  • Supports the Cyber Awareness team and awareness campaigns by developing a communications strategy and crafting audience tailored awareness content aligned with industry best practices.
  • Develops and implements internal communications strategies to address the needs of internal stakeholders.
  • Develops and implements external communications strategies to showcase and share achievements and successes with external stakeholders (Other divisions, agencies and corporations as well as the public).
  • Leads internal communications, including emails and other correspondence, to ensure consistent messaging and engagement across the organization.
  • Responds proactively to manage strategic communications, media relations, and issues management, providing expert advice to senior staff and officials.
  • Offers counsel on high-level executive materials, including presentation decks, reports, and strategic communication documents.
  • Provides change management communications support for cyber security projects, ensuring smooth transitions and stakeholder engagement.

 QUALIFICATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS:

  • Degree in Communications, Journalism, Change Management, Business, Technology or a related discipline.
  • Extensive experience in communications or related field.
  • Extensive experience creating creative and innovative content for online, email, print layout and design.
  • Experience developing and executing communications strategy and/or plans.
  • Experience in Information Security.
  • Experience as a media spokesperson an asset.
  • Preferred Certifications (any in the list): CISM, CISSP

SKILLS:

  • Excellent written & verbal communication skills (comfortable & confident communicating at all levels including business partners, leadership and vendors).
  • A creative, critical, and strategic thinker.
  • Ability to assess communications gaps and opportunities and to develop new content strategies that deliver on business objectives.
  • Ability to create content, toolkits and awareness materials that support the success of transformative divisional programs.
  • Ability to lead efficient communication between all project stakeholders, including internal divisional teams, corporate partners, clients and external partners.
  • Ability to achieve business objectives through influencing and effectively working with key stakeholders.
  • Excellent written & verbal communication skills (comfortable & confident communicating at all levels including business partners, leadership and vendors.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills with capability to identify solutions to unusual and complex problems.
  • Keen attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
  • Highly organized, proactive, self-motivated team player who takes initiative and is able to work independently.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities with proven time management skills.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to prioritise and multitask.
  • Ability to prioritize and effectively manage competing priorities and projects.
  • Ability to manage multiple initiatives while adhering to strict deadlines.
  • Able to work extremely well under pressure while maintaining a high level of professionalism
  • Self-motivated person with desire to go above and beyond required tasks.
  • Transferable skills, including business transformation and decision-making, are equally important. Being able to think on your feet and show good judgment are especially valuable in this field. Professionals in cyber security must be able to react quicky and strategically to cyber-related incidents.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS/INFORMATION:

A normal work week is 35 hours, however, unforeseen situation may require extended hours of work with little or no prior notice. In case of a cyber incident or breach, rotation shift, continuous extended hours may be required with little or no prior notice. 

*Subject to a police check, background check, psychological assessment and/or any other checks on a regular basis as the Office of the CISO handles highly sensitive and confidential information.

 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The City is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to creating a workplace culture of inclusiveness that reflects the diverse residents that we serve. Learn more about the City’s commitment to employment equity.

 ACCOMMODATION

The City of Toronto is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive organization. We are committed to providing barrier-free and accessible employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Should you require Code-protected accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please make them known when contacted and we will work with you to meet your needs. Disability-related accommodation during the application process is available upon request. Learn more about the City’s Hiring Policies and Accommodation Process.

If this role is of interest to you, please submit your resume to recruiting@ipss.ca.

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