Dogwood Initiative is a Victoria, BC based non-profit organization that helps British Columbians develop common-ground solutions to forestry and energy challenges.

Dogwood Initiative is looking for a Communications Director to play a key leadership role in our innovative work.  This work seeks to address the root causes of environmental and social problems and to unite historically antagonistic sectors.
 
Reporting to the Executive Director and working closely with staff and volunteers the Communications Director will develop Dogwood Initiative’s communications strategy and oversee, measure and evaluate all communications initiatives organization wide.
 
Primary Responsibilities:

• Develop and lead the implementation of an innovative and organization wide communications plan.
• Create a consistent, effective and communicable branding strategy for Dogwood Initiative and each of our campaigns.
• Cultivate alternative and mainstream media relationships in strategic markets, on a provincial, national and international level.
• Identify story ideas and events and pitch them to reporters.
• Write, design and produce materials including news releases, media advisories, op-eds, letters to the editor, talking points, etc.
• Lead and direct the management and development of all web based communications including the Dogwood Initiative website, e-mail campaigns, and web 2.0 applications and tools.  

Desired Qualifications:

• A demonstrated commitment, knowledge and passion for environment, social justice, land reform, community and First Nations issues.
• Previous experience in environmental, social justice and/or human rights campaign work.
• Excellent writing, communication and organizational skills, including the ability to demystify complex ideas.
• Demonstrated expertise in communications, marketing and public relations practices, particularly in the areas of strategic communications, and media relations.
• Ability to anticipate communication issues and opportunities and to provide strategic and creative solutions and plans.
• A minimum of 2-3 years related experience.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work closely and constructively with others.
• Experience in creative thinking/ problem solving and strategic planning.
• Community organizing experience – including organizing and mobilizing support from the public and working with the media.
• Strong technological aptitudes and proficiencies are essential.
• Previous experience using and managing content management systems (Plone), and web 2.0 applications as well as a capacity and familiarity with design programs (Adobe Creative Suite) are considerable assets but not essential.
• Desire and ability to make a minimum 2-year commitment.

 
Salary: Negotiable depending on experience, plus benefits;
 
Dogwood Initiative is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, nationality, ethnicity, religion, political belief, age, gender, sexual orientation or class.  All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the Canada.
 
Please email a résumé, three references, and a short (1 page maximum) cover letter about why you would like to join our team and why you are a strong candidate for the job to: Matt Takach Operations Director at matt@dogwoodinitiative.org
 
When submitting your application please name and save your attachments with your first and last name in the title, such as: "Ann_Smith_Cover_Letter.doc" and "Ann_Smith_Resume.doc."
 
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviews. No phone calls please.