Communications Officer

At Hydro Ottawa, we empower the lives of the people in the communities we serve. 

As the electricity distributor to the Nation’s Capital, our work powers all the essential activities that make up our lives - at home, at work and at play. And as Ontario’s largest municipally-owned producer of green power, we are leading the way to a greener tomorrow. 

We are looking for trailblazers and innovators to join us as we build an energy future that will keep our City and our planet green for generations to come.

Are you ready to make a difference in our community?

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Manager, External and Corporate Affairs, the Communications Officer is a key contributor to protecting and enhancing Hydro Ottawa's corporate reputation and social license to operate. The Communications Officer is responsible for providing support and advice on the implementation of communications plans and initiatives, as well as producing communications products for Hydro Ottawa Group and its subsidiaries that engage and inform the company’s key stakeholders, including customers, media, government, industry partners, and community members. 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

The essential responsibilities of the job include but are not necessarily restricted to the following:

• Assist in the execution of integrated communications plans and initiatives that support major corporate projects and strategic priorities.

• Support the development of communications strategies by providing research, insights, and feedback from frontline engagement with stakeholders.

• Build and maintain positive working relationships with community associations, media contacts, and other external stakeholders through day-to-day correspondence and outreach.

• Provide communications support and advice to internal project teams on the tactical implementation of their communication needs.

• Represent the External and Corporate Affairs group on cross-functional project teams, ensuring tactical activities are aligned with the overarching communications strategy.

• Create and disseminate in a clear, accurate and timely manner a wide range of high-quality communications materials consistent with the company’s strategic narrative, including but not limited to press releases,key messages, website content, newsletters,  project notices, podcast and videos.

• Ensure all communications products consistently adhere to Hydro Ottawa's brand standards and messaging framework.

• Track and report on the performance of communications activities using established metrics, contributing data and analysis for divisional reports.

• Build and maintain positive working relationships with vendors and suppliers while collaborating to develop materials for strategic initiatives, and performing budget-related duties such as soliciting quotes and processing invoices.

• Maintain an organized inventory of corporate communications materials for reporting and knowledge transfer.

• As a member of the Crisis Communications Team, reacting quickly and effectively to crises which present a reputational risk. 

• Research, write, review and edit a variety of oral, print and online communications products for both internal and external stakeholders that could be at times confidential or time sensitive. 

• Develop the planning, storyboarding, and execution of high-impact photo and video shoots, collaborating with third-party partners to translate narratives and brand messaging into compelling visual stories. 

• Perform other related duties as required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• A post-secondary education in an appropriate field such as communications, marketing, public relations, journalism, or equivalent.

• 3-5  years of progressive experience in a corporate communications, public relations, or public affairs role.

• Knowledge of communications and marketing strategies and tools, including social media platforms, monitoring tools, metrics and analytics.

• Experience in the utility, energy, or another regulated industry is considered an asset.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• English essential, both oral and written

• Bilingual (English and French) considered an asset

The terms and conditions of employment for this position are governed by the collective agreement between Hydro Ottawa Limited and IBEW Local 636.

Hydro Ottawa offers a Hybrid Work Model. Hybrid work is position specific, details of the hybrid model will be discussed with successful candidates.

Hydro Ottawa may use artificial intelligence (“AI”) during the recruitment process to aid in the screening and selection of candidates.

Location:

The terms and conditions of employment for this position are governed by the collective agreement between Hydro Ottawa Limited and the applicable union. This posting is to establish a candidate pool for future opportunities. Candidates selected for the pool may be contacted for current or future vacancies as they arise.

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Posting End Date (if applicable):

Hydro Ottawa is committed to establishing a qualified workforce that reflects the diverse population it serves and we encourage applications from all qualified individuals. We are also committed to preventing and removing barriers to employment for people with disabilities, and we invite you to inform us should you have any accessibility or accommodation needs.

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada.