Primary Purpose: To provide design, layout and editorial solutions for the production of print and other media within the Strategic Communications portfolio, University Relations.
Nature of Work: Reporting to the Graphic Design Specialist, University Relations this position is responsible for concept development, design, layout and editorial services for the production of print and digital materials; aiding the campus community to effectively communicate through a strong visual identity platform and a range of University of Saskatchewan branded materials. The publications officer works closely with a talented group of communicators and members of the campus community in the production of print, online and interactive communications. The environment is complex, fast-paced and competitive with numerous deadlines. This position effectively functions in an environment requiring high confidentiality. Consequence of error is signification to the profile and reputation of the university.
Typical Duties or Accountabilities:
Provide the creative concept development, design, layout and editorial services for a wide range of high profile digital and print communication and marketing pieces that promote the university and its initiatives, including: proposals, brochures, posters, web and social content, graphics, advertisements, reports, presentations, information booklets, promotional items, signage, etc. Produce and modify website creative design and update many high-profile publications Create and modify advertising and print material to promote the university and its initiatives Collaborate within and provide design support services within the strategic communications portfolio to meet requests from the university community and endorse visual identity standards Coordinate production with internal and external printing agencies and proof the final outputs Research, recommend, implement and maintain the use of current strategies, leading trends and technologies with respect to electronic design and publishing Work collaboratively with University Relations and other internal stakeholders to achieve common goals on various projectsOther duties as assigned.
Education: Post-secondary degree or diploma in Visual Arts or Graphic Design. Training in communications, marketing, advertising or public relations is an asset. An equivalent combination of education and directly related experience may be considered.
Experience: At least three years of professional design experience in both print and digital media, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, video editing, with experience providing print-ready files to a variety of vendors, and digital files to web and video providers. Experience in a fast-paced communications and marketing environment. Knowledge of and skills in social media platforms. Photography skills would be an asset. Knowledge of the University of Saskatchewan and academic environments, and an understanding of communication strategies and principles with proven experience in applying them in a complex environment and achieving results are assets.
Skills: Proven expertise in publications production including design, layout and pre-press work; demonstrated excellence in all aspects of online, print and publications design; proven ability to organize, prioritize and meet deadlines; keen attention to detail; demonstrated ability to think strategically and execute creatively; demonstrated proficiency and knowledge of digital design and web applications, including Adobe Creative Suite, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, video editing, Canva, and others as required; demonstrated creative and artistic abilities; exceptional writing and editing skills especially as they pertain to promotional publishing; experience working with printing companies; effective time management skills, ability to organize, prioritize and meet deadlines; excellent interpersonal skills and proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively as part of a team. Knowledge of the University of Saskatchewan, and web design experience would be considered assets.