Job Specifications
Our office is expanding to include a Legislative and Communications Assistant. This individual will elevate the work of Dr. Adil Shamji, Member of Provincial Parliament for Don Valley East and Chief Whip of the Ontario Liberal Caucus.
In addition to his strategic responsibilities as Whip, MPP Shamji is responsible for some of the most challenging and pressing critic portfolios in Ontario spanning healthcare, housing and Indigenous issues.
The successful applicant will be responsible for supporting all this work by advising the MPP, amplifying his message, and ensuring exceptional policy and communications.
The work is fast-paced, high stakes and under close public scrutiny. Communications products and policy work will have provincial and national exposure, and involves significant engagement with media, stakeholders and senior government officials. This requires an individual who is ready to go above and beyond to make a difference for society.
What attributes make a successful candidate?
The ideal candidate is creative, highly motivated, and exceptionally organized. They will demonstrate initiative, act with discretion and have sound judgment. They will be fair but fierce in assisting MPP Shamji with his opposition work.
The Legislative and Communications Specialist should exemplify the following attributes:
Curious and observant
Ability to adapt quickly
Detail-oriented
Analytical
Thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
Seek out and provides constructive feedback
Committed to service
Highest level of integrity
The successful candidate does not need to be a policy specialist but must be able to understand and engage with public policy files that can be technical. Strong writing and editing skills that help to communicate complex issues in a simple manner are an asset.
Key Responsibilities
Communications
Develop and implement strategic communications plans
Design high quality and engaging multimedia content (videos, graphics, blogs) tailored to various audiences and platforms.
Draft engaging, captivating and persuasive statements, speeches, key messages, and oral questions
Support with constituent correspondence, including but not limited to community messaging such as blogs and posts
Draft media advisories, press releases, newsletters, articles, and op-eds
Script, produce and edit various kinds of content with a creative flair including videos and social media content (such as threads)
Maintain website and social media channels
Legislative
Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders relevant to the MPP's work, including but not limited to those related to his critic portfolios
Oversee MPP's media relations and monitor news and media activity relevant to the MPP's riding and responsibilities
Lead policy work such as drafting and analyzing legislation, preparing amendments, and making recommendations on the merits of bills before the legislature
Conduct media scans, investigative research (e.g. FOIs) and other analysis required to prepare speeches, inform critic work, and improve public policy
Perform administrative functions such as coordination and scheduling of meetings at Queen's Park, including with stakeholders, constituents, and government officials
Attend events with MPP to provide support, manage stakeholders, capture content, and take notes/follow-up on action items
Collaborate with stakeholders, legal counsel, caucus and others to execute legislative priorities which could include committee work, drafting legislation or amendments, and engaging with other government officials
Organize and prepare legislative materials including video footage from debates, Hansard transcripts, and requests to the legislative library
Support the MPP in his role as Chief Whip of the Ontario Liberal Caucus
Other tasks as assigned
Qualifications
Candidates from a wide variety of backgrounds and education levels are encouraged to apply so long as they can demonstrate a proven track record of professionalism, judgment, and communications (e.g. writing, storytelling, producing) experience. This may include, but is not limited to, individuals with training or experience in performing arts, drama, investigative journalism, media, marketing, etc.
Candidates do not need to have experience in all domains to be successful in the recruiting process but must demonstrate an interest and aptitude for growing.
The ability to speak French is not necessary but considered an asset. Similarly, proficiency in software for graphic design/video editing is valuable.
Please note that work is in-person and divided between the Member's two offices at Queen's Park and in the constituency riding of Don Valley East depending upon whether the Legislature is in session.
Examples of Work the Communications Specialist May Work on During Any Given Day
Support engaging, dramatic and persuasive content for Question Period
Example: https://x.com/ShamjiAd
About the Company
The Liberal Caucus Service Bureau supports Members of Provincial Parliament belonging to the Ontario Liberal Caucus. Services provided to M.P.P.'s and their staff include website infrastructure, case management databasing, I.T. support, graphic design, photography, audio and video production, human resources, finance, purchasing, regional outreach, communications planning, strategic research and policy and more.
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