Manager, Pension Communications in Toronto

Reporting to the Director, Pension Communications, the Manager, Pension Communications (12-Month Contract) will lead the creation and implementation of comprehensive communication strategies that engage and inform UPP’s plan members and stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have expertise in strategic communications, content development, and leadership, with the ability to build trust and relationships with diverse audiences.

Key responsibilities include:

• Collaborating with internal and external partners to develop high-quality, brand-aligned content.
• Driving innovation and consistency in member communications.
• Crafting clear, accessible messaging tailored for various platforms.
• Distilling complex pension-related information into content suitable for our diverse member base, including university professors, employees, faculty associations, staff unions, and sector associations.

This role is based in downtown Toronto under a hybrid work policy, allowing employees the flexibility to work remotely and in-office (approximately two days per week in-office).

Specific Accountabilities:

• Strategic Communication Development: Develop and execute comprehensive communication plans, providing strategic advice and guidance to various groups within Pension Services. Adopt an audience-focused approach using innovative strategies and tactics to support business objectives and meet audience needs. Collaborate closely with other member and stakeholder-facing UPP business units to maintain a consistent organizational voice across all platforms. Manage timelines and priorities to ensure effective delivery of communications.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and nurture strong relationships with key business partners and stakeholders, including members, employer administrators, faculty associations, unions, and external partners. Serve as a trusted liaison, ensuring consistent and effective communication between UPP and its stakeholders. Proactively identify opportunities for stakeholder engagement and communication improvements.
• Content Development: Create engaging content for various platforms, including presentations, newsletters, booklets and other pension communications. Use plain, member-friendly language to simplify complex pension-related information. Review and edit content for accuracy, style, readability, and adherence to UPP’s brand guidelines. Identify and manage opportunities for proactive member and employer communications, ensuring member needs are addressed.
• Project Planning and Coordination: Demonstrate strong project planning and management skills, managing resources and timelines effectively. Coordinate multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with strategic goals. Oversee end-to-end project cycle, from developing comprehensive communication plans to content creation, collaborating with creative and digital teams to ensure high-quality and successful delivery. Operate independently and collaboratively, maintaining high productivity and accountability.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum 5+ years of experience in a large, multi-stakeholder organization such as a university, membership association, union, pension plan, or financial institution.
• Post-secondary education in communications, marketing, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Strong expertise in strategic communication planning and execution.
• Experience managing stakeholder relationships in a professional setting.
• Proven ability to distill nuanced and complex topics into accessible materials that strengthen relationships with audiences.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to work with strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent proofreading capabilities.
• Written and verbal fluency in French is considered an asset.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience in leveraging digital platforms for effective communication.
• Familiarity with the pension or financial services industry is an asset.
• Strong analytical skills to assess communication strategies and make data-driven decisions.

Attributes:

• Self-motivated, diplomatic, and professional.
• Strong organizational and planning skills; able to prioritize and deliver on deadlines.
• Collaborative with the ability to build trusting relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Innovative thinker with a passion for clear, effective communication.
• Up to date on industry trends and best practices.