Communications Coordinator

Canopy (formerly Markets Initiative) safeguards our forests, species and climate by harnessing the power of the marketplace and changing business practices. Specifically, we drive North American demand for green paper products by shifting heavy paper consuming sectors away from unsustainable sources. We work primarily with the book, newspaper, magazine and print industries to phase out their use of endangered forests from around the world.

Best known for the greening of the Harry Potter series globally, Canopy has brokered innovative environmental solutions such as the Wheat Sheet and worked closely with ally organizations to translate companies' environmental policies into landmark conservation gains in BC's Great Bear Rainforest and Canada's Boreal forests. We are a national and bilingual organization.

Position Overview: 

Canopy is seeking an experienced strategically-minded communications professional with strong project management and web skills to become our Communications Coordinator. This new position will ideally be based in our Vancouver office.

You will work closely with Canopy's Executive Director, campaign and fundraising team to develop and implement Canopy's communications plan (using traditional and non-traditional tools, including online social marketing and outreach), manage and promote our website, and manage the new organization's brand. You will also oversee the design and production of a range of communications tools, from print advertisements and online videos to e-newsletters.

The major focus of the position is to increase the effectiveness of Canopy's campaign communications and organization profile across North America. You will be expected to travel occasionally - primarily within Canada.

Responsibilities:

Sets and implements Canopy's communications strategy, manages the Canopy brand, and manages communications staff.

• Develop and implement semi-annual strategic communications plans that advance and support Canopy's campaigns and brand development
• Manage and promote the Canopy brand
• Manage, develop and promote the Canopy website and other key communications tools, including e-newsletters, print advertising and videos
• Drive the development of campaign, organizational and funding materials
• Provide media and public communications support and guidance to Canopy staff and board
• Manage communications contractors

Qualifications:

• 5-7 years experience working with the media and/or as a communications specialist
• Ability to think and act strategically
• Sound knowledge of environmental issues
• Interest in and/or passion for Canopy's mission and campaign goals and a broad understanding of the role of non-governmental organizations in civil society.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills in both English and French.
• Strong computer skills including understanding of web platforms, word processing, spreadsheet power point and design software.
• Strong understanding of media, online engagement and other communication tools.
• Excellent project management, follow-through, and time management skills
• Management experience
• Demonstrated track record of collaboration, as well as ability to work independently
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment
• Ability to travel and work on weekends and evenings when necessary.

Closing Date: August 11th 2009

To Apply:

Please apply by email to Fawzia Ahmad, Operations Director.

Canopy embraces equity and diversity and is committed to a workplace that is enriched by the people, needs and desires of Canada's diverse community. We thank all applicants however we will only be contacting candidates successful in securing an interview.