Communications Program Manager

Be the Spark! Join our passionate team and be the spark that ignites the potential in others. YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is one of the largest not-for-profit providers of licensed child care in Canada, offers settlement services to newcomers to Canada, provides youth services, operates 2 overnight camps and 14 Health & Fitness branches across Southwestern Ontario, and we have been making a positive difference in the communities we serve for over 50 years!

Position: Communications Program Manager

Location: Hybrid Model based in London, ON

Start Date: Mid-May 2025

Salary: $49,000 to $57,000

As part of your total compensation:

• Receive a complimentary YMCA membership to our Health & Fitness facilities, and discounts on YMCA child care and camp programs
• 10 paid vacation days, and up to 12 paid personal days annually
• Benefits package and Pension applicable with position/contract length
• Be part of a caring and supportive network of people to help each other succeed
• Complimentary access to wellness and counselling services

In this role, you will:

• Be responsible for overseeing, developing, managing, and executing internal and external communications, in alignment with the Association needs, and Strategic Plan.
• Ensure that YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is consistently represented across its communities, with messages that reflect our Core Values and adhere to Brand Guidelines, while increasing awareness, engagement and brand perception.
• Research, write, edit, and manage the production of various digital and print communication materials, including newsletters, social media, and website content, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and alignment with the YMCA mission and values and strategic plan (for both internal and external audiences).
• Development and execution of the communication strategy, and all tactical deployment to support.
• Develop and execute media relations strategy and increase earned media, brand perception, and awareness.
• Write and distribute press releases, targeted pitches and other media materials to relevant markets and media.
• Provide counsel and communications support to functional leaders, including VP Marketing and Communications, and develop and execute communications relevant to their program areas.
• Develop and execute campaigns to enhance awareness and engagement with YSWO and its programs and events (internally and externally).
• Analyze data to monitor the effectiveness of communication channels and campaigns, and to improve audience engagement, and ensure best practices in public relations, social media, and employee engagement.
• Collect and recognize noteworthy ‘Y stories or events for recognition, to share, and understand how best to share and with whom.
• Work with key stakeholders to develop news-worthy content be able to be shared internally or with media.
• Manage the approval process for posting on YSWO private social media account, and access for employees, volunteers, and alumni.
• Monitor media coverage, measure KPIs, and report insights, and contribute to monthly management reports and track progress through communication KPIs.
• Review, edit or create and deliver mass internal and external communication for all communications with an audience of 500 or more to ensure accuracy, consistency, and brand alignment, unless directly supporting Strategic Plan within capacity.
• Plan, create copy, execute, and oversee communications for association events and Development appeals e.g., Women of Excellence, Move-a-Thon, Fill the Bus, Jordan’s Run, CQE Elevate.
• Stay informed on digital trends to optimize communication strategies.
• Foster relationships with key community people, sponsors, and advocates.
• Provide technical support with crisis management communication delivery.

Education and Skills Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or college diploma in Public Relations, Communications, Media Relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of five years of experience in communications, including three to five years in developing and executing communications plans.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven leadership and project management experience in the development, planning and execution of tactical communications strategies that utilize a diverse range of materials, including reports, briefing notes and digital content.
• Proficiency in web-based communication tools and web content management systems.
• Exceptional organization skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage competing deadlines, and work independently under minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience of systems utilized for the collection and distribution of communication and email marketing/newsletter software (e.g. MailChimp, Constant Contact, Typeform, etc.).
• Have a valid Class G driver’s license and a vehicle to travel to various YMCA sites across the region of Southwestern Ontario (mileage is subsidized).
• Legally entitled to work in Canada

Schedule:

• This is largely a remote role with the requirement to be at various YMCA properties a minimum of 1 day a week.
• This position operates within a busy, high-volume environment.
• This position sometimes requires hours outside of regular business hours and hours will be adjusted accordingly.

Why The Y?

YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is a charity that ignites growth and belonging for people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities. We are committed to helping our employees reach their full potential and have been recognized by Forbes as one of Canada’s Top Employers. We offer meaningful employment and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

NOTE: YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is committed to providing a barrier-free environment for all stakeholders including our members/participants, employees, job applicants, suppliers, and any visitors who may enter our premises, access our information, or use our services. As an organization, we respect and uphold the requirements set forth under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005), and its associated standards and regulations.