ISLAND COASTAL ECONOMIC TRUST
Building an inclusive and resilient coastal economy through strategic outreach
The Island Coastal Economic Trust invests in coastal communities to develop a resilient economy that strengthens well-being of all people and the environment. Over the years, the Trust’s role and its programs have continuously evolved to meet a wide range of stakeholder needs. To date, they have invested $67 million in communities, $370M in total investment impact, and created approximately 3001 permanent jobs.
The Trust was established by the Province of BC in 2006 with $50 million under the North Island-Coast Development Initiative Trust Act. Its mandate is to support economic diversification and innovation in partnership with communities across Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, and islands and inlets from the Salish Sea to Cape Caution. In 2020-21, the Province expanded Island Coastal Economic Trust’s service area to include the Capital Regional District electoral areas of Juan de Fuca, Salt Spring Island, and the Southern Gulf Islands. With half a million residents calling the region home, the Trust works in close collaboration, forming high-trust relationships with people and organizations in urban and rural areas, including those situated on islands and in coastal inlets. They partner with First Nations, municipal, regional governments, industry and non-profit organizations.
The Trust focuses its investments across eight impact priorities, which include Food Security and Agrifood, Cultural and Nature-based Tourism, Innovation and Technology, Renewable and Low Carbon Energy, Entrepreneurs and Local Businesses, Transportation and Logistics, Training and Advanced Education, and Regenerative Forestry.
Please visit their site at www.islandcostaltrust.ca for more info.
The Opportunity:
The current Communications & Impact Manager is moving on to an exciting new opportunity, thus creating space for a new communications professional to join the team. The new manager will work closely with management and colleagues, local, regional and First Nation governments, social purpose organizations, industry partners, and the Province.
Reporting to and working closely with the CEO, the Communications and Impact Manager proactively coordinates the Trust’s communications efforts. This includes responsibility for a range of external communications functions, including writing compelling stories about the positive impacts and wellbeing outcomes created by Trust-partnered projects and people, coordinating contractors, supporting strategic ss efforts, engaging local and regional media, and related duties.
This position integrates internal and external ss strategies to raise awareness of the Trust with all levels of governments, community residents from First Nations, rural communities, and urban centres, and existing or potential partners. The role strives to support continuous learning and knowledge sharing for all stakeholders.
This role is a key member of a small, close working staff team who will collaborate and foster a high-trust environment within the Trust and with the communities and organizations the Trust works with. The Manager will partner with teams from graphic design & web development agencies, print services, freelance writers and photographers.
Our Ideal Candidate:
The Trust is seeking someone who not only thrives on storytelling and social media to promote the work of a community-based business but also someone who is not afraid to do data management, maintain and develop website content, track analytics, and represent the Trust at various events. Beyond their role, they will also support the CEO, CFO and the Manager of Programs & Corporate Affairs, as needed.
To be considered for the role, we are looking for individuals who either reside in Courtenay or are keen to relocate. Canadian experience and the desire to visit local communities is a must. Other ideal qualifications include:
Experience in multi-faceted communications, public relations, or marketing roles, as well as experience working with external communications contractors.
Well-versed in conducting interviews and translating interviews into compelling stories similar to those seen on their website.
Solid experience in online content management using WordPress, or equivalent web-based content management systems
Working knowledge of MailChimp or other systems for distributing mass email and communications newsletters to targeted and segmented audiences.
Strong use of MS Office along with working knowledge of photo editing software, including Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, as well as CRM software.
Comfort in managing social media accounts, including some graphic design in Canva or InDesign to create supporting graphics, charts, and images.
Experience in drafting, proofing, and editing correspondence for board/executive audiences.
Completion of a diploma or bachelor’s degree in a related discipline (marketing, communication studies, or journalism), or equivalent experience.
Experience working with coastal First Nations or other Indigenous communities would be an asset.
Just as important - you are a relationship builder with an inquisitive mind, a great listener who understands confidentiality, works with passion, and strives to produce quality communication materials.
Compensation:
Competitive salary of $80,000 to $90,000, based on experience. The Trust is part of the provincial government pension plan and includes a comprehensive benefits package. The role is eligible for four weeks' holiday, sick time, and personal days.
Interested?
The Trust has partnered with KasaHR Consulting to fulfill this important hire. To be considered for this role, please apply by sending your resume and cover letter directly to us.
Please note, a more detailed position overview is available for interested applicants. For more information, please get in touch with us.
KasaHR was founded on the basis that all applicants deserve respect and care when they apply for jobs. All applications will be reviewed with care, and we look forward to hearing the personal journey and story of those applicants whose backgrounds best match the needs of our clients. All other applicants will be informed of the status of their application within days of applying. If you have not heard back from us within a week of submitting your application, please don’t hesitate to contact us for an update.
