Director of Marketing and Communications

Internationally acclaimed for its unique environment and expertise in the particular learning needs of girls, The Bishop Strachan School (BSS) has built a reputation over its long history as an undisputed leader in education. Offering a challenging, lively and creative atmosphere, a roster of uniquely qualified faculty and staff, and an inspiring campus featuring a spectacular science and arts wing, BSS inspires each student to find her passion, pursue her dreams and reach her potential through a rigorous academic program.

Helping students become smart, independent, compassionate young women, BSS provides the tools, technology and innovation required to thrive in post-secondary pursuits and beyond. Our unique whole girl approach, commitment to excellence and embodiment of strong values create a profound and powerful learning environment within a supportive, engaged community.

To support our mission of providing our students with the best educational experience, we strive for excellence in every facet of the organization - including providing a stimulating, creative and lively work environment that attracts the best staff and faculty. We are seeking the right candidate to fill the position:

Director of Marketing and Communications

Reports to:         Assistant Head, Enrolment Management

Direct reports:   Communications Specialist

                           Communications Co-ordinator

Liaises with:      Director of Advancement

                           Student Recruiting Team

Summary of Position:

Reporting to the Assistant Head, Enrolment Management, the Director of Marketing and Communications is responsible for developing and executing a marketing and communications plan that is aligned with the strategic vision and priorities of The Bishop Strachan School (BSS).

The position manages the BSS brand, both internally and externally, leads all public relations initiatives, supports the school’s revenue and community relations objectives, and manages the day-to-day activities of the department.

Specific Accountabilities Include:

• Develops and executes a marketing and communications strategy that aligns with the school’s strategic vision and priorities
• Acts as chief steward of the BSS brand to ensure that all marketing, promotional and other key communications materials are consistent with the high quality and standards synonymous with the BSS brand, and reflects the school’s vision, mission and values
• Ensures the messaging across all communications vehicles is consistent with school strategy and priorities
• Leads all public relations and media relations for the school, including cultivating media contacts and garnering earned media
• Actively seeks new external marketing opportunities and implements those that fit within the marketing and communications plan
• Works collaboratively with the school Leadership Team both as a resource and advisor for marketing and communications activities
• Leads the Marketing and Communications Department, coaching, mentoring and overseeing the performance management of employees, interns, agencies and freelancers
• Manages the department budget
• Other related responsibilities as assigned.

Skills, Experience and Attributes Include:

• Proven ability as an engaging and strong leader who is both visionary and hands-on
• Completion of related post-secondary education
• Minimum five to seven years’ experience in progressively more challenging and senior roles
• Proven track record in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment where taking initiative is both expected and valued
• Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to build capacity in these areas in others
• Proven expertise in corporate communications, public relations, marketing and branding and evaluating the quality and impact of creative communications materials across all platforms including written materials, print advertising, promotional materials, and digital media
• Expertise and experience in analyzing data
• Experience in a non-profit environment preferred
• Knowledge of and passion for the latest industry innovations and best practices
• Proven ability to collaborate and team-build with colleagues representing a diverse range of professional expertise
• Experience and a high level of proficiency using InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, web design, CSS, HTML and video editing software essential
• Thorough knowledge and experience with the Macintosh platform
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to juggle workload and meet tight timelines
• Ability and desire to work in a complex and changing environment, including some evenings and weekends
• Flexibility and a sense of humour
• Passion for girls’ education

Interested applicants should forward a cover letter and resume to Human Resources at The Bishop Strachan School by email to careers@bss.on.ca indicating Director of Marketing and Communications in the subject line.

We thank all candidates in advance.

We will, however, contact only those selected for an interview.

We believe that diversity in our School fosters a rich, inclusive and creative environment.

We are actively engaged in building a more diverse school and encourage all qualified applicants to apply.

Visit us at www.bss.on.ca