SENIOR CORRESPONDENCE WRITER

We are looking for a talented professional to provide writing, editing, communications planning and project coordination services for our Coordination and Analysis Unit team with the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines.

What can I expect to do in this role?

As the Senior Correspondence Writer, you will:

• prepare draft responses and letters for the signature of the Minister, Deputy Minister and senior management
• conduct research on information required to write high profile correspondence
• review and edit correspondence and briefing note workflow of other divisional members to ensure timely production of documentation and adherence to policies and procedures and provide status updates to managers
• ensure consistency of editorial style, tone and grammar throughout all communications materials
• convert existing content to suit the audience and objectives of the communication or initiative
• track issues and trends with potential contentious implications
• provide advice and recommendations on priorities and processes associated with correspondence/note
• develop, revise, and edit video productions and presentation content, media releases, newsletters, mail outs, correspondence, fact sheets, letters, and any other information pieces as required

How do I qualify?

Technical expertise:

• You are knowledgeable in the theories, principles, practices and techniques of communication and writing methods/styles to coordinate day-to-day operations.
• You have knowledge of journalism and public relations strategies.

Leadership skills:

• You possess well developed leadership skills to provide guidance and training to staff in the official preparation of ministry correspondence.
• You can provide staff with recommendations and advice on correspondence, direction on issues and workflow/workload.

Communication and interpersonal skills:

• You possess proven writing and editing skills to thoroughly review correspondence, memos, briefing notes, and media releases.
• You present information in a clear and concise manner.
• You are an excellent communicator to effectively inform staff of correspondence plans, priorities and issues.
• You use your consultative and interpersonal skills to interact and liaise effectively with clients and staff at all levels.

Analytical, research and problem-solving skills:

• You have strong analytical and problem solving skills to provide strategic advice to resolve issues.
• You can conduct thorough research to support your recommendations and to stay abreast of the current government climate.
• You possess analytical skills to monitor and track issues and trends.

Program planning and project management skills:

• You have experience managing projects and assigning work to staff.
• You possess facilitation skills to conduct presentations for various audiences including senior management.
• You can plan, implement and manage effective communications strategies, programs and projects.
• You know how to plan and coordinate work activities and manage competing priorities with various deadlines and can monitor correspondence priorities.

Computer skills:

• You are proficient with computer programs, databases and the internet to create correspondence and conduct research.
• You are able to use presentation programs (i.e. PowerPoint) to create and give presentations.
• You are able to write, produce, direct and narrate divisional video productions and can use various video production programs and equipment.
• You can participate in the layout, design and assembly of static displays.

All external applicants (including former employees of the Ontario Public Service) applying to a competition in a ministry or Commission public body must disclose (either in the cover letter or resume) previous employment with the Ontario Public Service. Disclosure must include positions held, dates of employment and any active restrictions as applicable from being rehired by the Ontario Public Service. Active restrictions can include time and/or ministry-specific restrictions currently in force, and may preclude a former employee from being offered a position with the Ontario Public Service for a specific time period (e.g. one year), or from being offered a position with a specific ministry (either for a pre-determined time period or indefinitely). The circumstances around an employee's exit will be considered prior to an offer of employment.

Remember: The deadline to apply is Friday, April 26, 2013 11:59 pm EDT. Late applications will not be accepted.

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for further screening or an interview will be contacted.