Join Our Team

About Discover Saskatoon: 

Discover Saskatoon is the official destination management organization (DMO) for Saskatoon, dedicated to increasing the visibility and reputation of Saskatoon as a premier travel and business events destination. 

We are looking for an experienced communications professional to join our team temporarily in the role of Earned Media & Public Relations Specialist (or contractor). 

This position will play a key role in maintaining our media presence, connecting with local and national media, and driving awareness of Saskatoon through strategic earned media and content development efforts.

Position Title: Earned Media & Public Relations Specialist’ (or Independent Contractor) 

Contract Duration: I2-I4 Months

Location: Saskatoon, SK

Reports to: Director of Marketing & Communications;

Application Deadline: Sunday, November 24, 2024

Overall Purpose:

The Contractor, Earned Media & PR, will be responsible for increasing Saskatoon's destination awareness through earned media coverage, strategic content development, and corporate communications. This role will position Saskatoon as a destination of choice by leveraging traditional media, social media, and public relations strategies. A key focus will be on building relationships with local, national, and international media, pitching high-profile story opportunities, and developing content in collaboration with creators, especially within leisure, community, sport and business events sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Earned Media Management: Develop, implement, and manage an earned media strategy to drive positive and high yield media coverage about Saskatoon. 

• Media Relations: Establish and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, national, and international media. Serve as the primary contact for media inquiries and pitch story ideas that elevate Saskatoon's profile.

• High-impact Media Pitches: Proactively pitch national and international media opportunities, such as The Amazing Race, ESPN, and other media outlets that highlight Saskatoon as a vibrant hub for sport and business events. Develop customized pitches that showcase Saskatoon's unique assets. 

• Local Media Engagement: Identify opportunities to connect with local media to secure coverage for Saskatoon's events, attractions, and industry news. Keep local media contacts up to date on current events, press releases, and opportunities to cover newsworthy stories.

• Press Conferences & Media Events: Support the planning and organization of press conferences, media briefings, and announcements. Act as a liaison between the organization and the media, ensuring seamless execution of media events.

• Content Creation & Collaboration: Develop compelling content in collaboration with external creators, influencers, and photographers that showcases Saskatoon's sport and business events. Plan, oversee, and coordinate content projects to generate engaging digital and visual assets that are aligned with Discover Saskatoon's brand.

• Campaign Planning & Budget Management: Develop annual media campaign plans and manage associated budgets.

• Media Site Visits & FAM Tours: Organize and host media site visits and familiarization (FAM) tours to showcase the destination. 

• Media Marketplace Representation: Attend industry media marketplaces and events to represent Saskatoon, promote the destination, and follow up on leads.

• Media Monitoring & Reporting: Track, analyze, and report on media coverage results, providing insights to refine strategy.

• Collaboration: Work closely with internal teams, including the Content Development Specialist, and external partners such as Tourism Saskatchewan and Destination Canada, to align messaging and enhance Saskatoon's visibility across different markets.

• Community Engagement & Membership Development: Act as an ambassador for Discover Saskatoon while story mining and building community connections. Identify and support potential membership opportunities that arise naturally from these engagements, promoting Discover Saskatoon's initiatives and fostering interest in membership.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in communications, media relations, public relations, or a combination of experience and a degree or certification in a communications-related field.

• Proven success in securing high-profile earned media coverage and building media relationships at local, national, and international levels. 

• Demonstrated ability to develop strong connections with local media and an understanding of Saskatoon's media landscape.

• Experience developing and pitching media stories to high-impact channels such as national TV networks, international publications, or prominent digital platforms.

• In-depth knowledge and understanding of social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, etc.) and how they intersect with traditional media.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. • Strong project management experience and attention to detail.

• Ability to develop engaging content and collaborate with creators, photographers, and other digital storytellers.

• Knowledge of the travel and tourism industry is a significant asset.

Additional Information:

• This position can be structured as a full-time, temporary, staff position or as an independent third- party contractor.

• This position is based in-office, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan with occasional travel required for media events, site visits, and conferences. 

• This position is based on 37.5 hours per week, Monday through Friday, though may require some evening and weekend work, depending on project and event needs 

• This position may be eligible for Hybrid work, up to a maximum of 2 days per week, subject to prior approval from the CEO

What we offer: 

Discover Saskatoon offers a variety of career benefits, including fair compensation, diverse projects, professional development, and a strong benefits package. The total compensation package includes:

- Competitive Wages

- Comprehensive Benefits Plan including dental, vision, drug & extended health coverage

- Flexible Health & Wellness Spending Account

- Professional Development

- Earned Days Off

- Other Perks including frequent free passes/tickets to local events, and many others

To apply:

Please submit a cover letter and resume by 11:59 pm Sunday, November 24th, to [email protected]

We thank all applicants for their interest out only those being interviewed will be contacted. Any information submitted will be managed with the strictest of confidentiality.