Media Relations Specialist

About Musqueam

We are traditional hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ speaking people. Today, we are a strong, growing community of over 1,300 members. We live on a small portion of our traditional territory, known as the Musqueam Indian Reserve, located south of Marine Drive near the mouth of the Fraser River. The name Musqueam relates back to the River Plant, the name of the plant is məθkʷəy̓. There is a story that has been passed on from generation to generation that explains how we became known as the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) - People of the River Plant. We have always moved throughout our territory using the resources it provides for fishing, hunting, trapping and gathering. We remain distinct and our cultural practices are strong, despite the devastating impacts of residential schools, colonial laws banning our ceremonies, and other attempts to assimilate our people. Our lands and waters continue to support our cultural and economic practices while serving as a source of knowledge and memory, encoded with our teachings and laws. To learn more about Musqueam, please visit www.musqueam.bc.ca 

Position Summary

Reporting to the Manager of Marketing and Communications, the Media Relations Specialist is responsible for developing and maintaining positive relationships with media organizations and supporting the Musqueam Indian Band's external reputation through strategic media relations. 

The Media Relations Specialist serves as the primary contact for media inquiries and works collaboratively with leadership to develop messaging that accurately reflects Musqueam's priorities, values, and initiatives. This position prepares media materials, supports spokespersons, coordinates media events, monitors media coverage, and contributes to proactive media strategies that strengthen public awareness of Musqueam's work and achievements. This role focuses specifically on media relations and external communications and works closely with the Communications team to ensure messaging is consistent, timely, and aligned with organizational objectives. 

Roles and Responsibilities 

Media Relations 

• Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and coordinate timely, accurate responses. 
• Develop media responses, briefing notes, backgrounders, key messages, and media kits. 
• Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, public statements, and other media materials. 
• Prepare speaking notes and draft quotes for Chief, Council, Administration, and designated spokespersons. 
• Coordinate media interviews and provide briefing materials and logistical support to spokespersons. 
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with local, regional, other Nations, and national media outlets. 
• Maintain an up-to-date media contact database and identify opportunities to strengthen media relationships. 

Media Strategy and Reputation Management 

• Assist the Manager and Snr Director in the development and implementation of proactive media relations strategies that support organizational priorities. 
• Identify opportunities to generate positive media coverage of Musqueam initiatives, programs, partnerships, and community events. 
• Monitor emerging issues and media trends that may impact the organization and provide recommendations to management. 
• Assist with crisis and issues communications by preparing media materials and supporting response activities when required. 
• Monitor and evaluate media coverage, preparing regular reports on media reach, sentiment, and emerging trends. 
• Track media opportunities associated with organizational partnerships, funding announcements, events, and initiatives. 

Media Events 

• Plan, coordinate, and attend press conferences, media availabilities, announcements, and cultural events. 
• Coordinate media accreditation, logistics, interview schedules, and event materials. 
• Support photography and media access during major organizational announcements and community events. 

Other Duties 

• Maintain media archives, including press releases, coverage reports, photographs, and supporting documentation. 
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of media processes, standards, and best practices. 
• Support the department when coverages are required (vacation/sick leaves) and special projects. 
• Other related duties as assigned. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

• Degree or diploma in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Media Studies, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience an asset. Culturally relevant experience can be considered as a substitution for formal education. 
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressively responsible experience in media relations, public affairs, journalism, or corporate communications, an asset. 
• Willing to learn hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓  as requested. 
• Proficient written communication skills with demonstrated experience writing media materials for executive audiences. 
• Strong understanding of Canadian media operations and current media landscape. 
• Experience building and maintaining productive relationships with journalists and media organizations. 
• Excellent interviewing, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills. 
• Strong judgment and ability to work effectively under pressure and within tight deadlines. 
• Experience supporting executive leadership and preparing spokesperson materials. 
• Knowledge of crisis communications principles is considered an asset. 
• Demonstrated understanding of Indigenous governments, cultures, and communities is highly desirable. 
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. 
• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check. 

Working Conditions 

• Work is primarily performed in an office environment with evening or weekend work to support media events and community functions. 
• On call coverage is required, typically at one weekend per month, but may be adjusted to meet business needs. 

Why work for Musqueam? 

Our success as a leader as a First Nations Government is built on the traditional teachings of our people, initiative and dedication of the Musqueam Indian Band. Providing a highly engaged traditional government that is member focused. 

• Competitive salary
• Training and career development 
• Business casual environment 
• Community fitness and gym access 
• Comprehensive group benefits plan and pension plan 
• Centrally located with free parking; free onsite gym and class access; close to nature trails at UBC and along the Fraser River, shops, restaurants and services.