About the Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO)
The Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) is the leading professional organization representing over 2,000 optometrists in Ontario for over 100 years. We are dedicated to helping our members provide the highest standard of eye health and vision care for Ontarians while driving the profession of optometry forward at the government, regulatory, and public levels. We work to increase awareness and understanding of the role that optometrists play in ensuring the health of patients.
OAO is the designated representative for optometry and meets with the provincial government on its members’ behalf concerning OHIP coverage, optometric billing codes and procedures, and other services. OAO monitors provincial legislation and works to ensure that the government considers the needs and concerns of optometrists and the communities they serve.
The association offers a wide range of benefits and services to our members, including:
- Public and Member Advertising and Communication and Marketing Programs
- Preferred Partner Benefits and Services, offering exclusive member discounts
- Professional Development and Continuing Education both virtually and in-person
- Designated Independent OD Consultant and Mentorship Program
- A full suite of Insurance benefits: Professional Liability Insurance (PLI), Practice, Cyber, Group: Home, Auto, Health, Dental, Life, Travel and Disability Insurances
Vision: Valued as Ontario’s trusted primary eye care provider. Autonomous. United. Respected.
Mission: The essential resource for optometrists to thrive in their profession. Advocates for optometrists to deliver the best possible eye care.
Position Overview
The Communications Coordinator will play a key role in supporting the communication efforts of the Ontario Association of Optometrists. Reporting to the Marketing Manager, this position is responsible for creating, managing, and distributing content that enhances the visibility and influence of the OAO and its members. The Communications Coordinator will ensure consistent and effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Content Creation:
- Develop and produce engaging content for various communication channels, including newsletters, press releases, social media, and the OAO website.
- Write, edit, and proofread materials to ensure clarity, accuracy, and alignment with OAO’s messaging and brand guidelines.
- Collaborate with team members to create multimedia content, such as videos and infographics.
- Social Media Management:
- Manage and grow OAO’s social media presence across platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
- Create and schedule social media posts, monitor engagement, and respond to comments and messages.
- Analyze social media metrics and adjust strategies to improve reach and engagement.
- Internal Communications:
- Assist in the development and distribution of internal communications to keep members and staff informed about OAO initiatives, events, and updates.
- Coordinate with various departments to gather and disseminate relevant information.
- Media Relations:
- Support media relations efforts by drafting press releases, media advisories, and other materials.
- Maintain media contact lists and assist in building relationships with journalists and media outlets.
- Monitor media coverage and compile reports on OAO’s media presence.
- Event Support:
- Assist in the promotion and communication of OAO events, including conferences, webinars, and workshops.
- Develop promotional materials and strategies to drive attendance and engagement at OAO events.
- Provide on-site support during events as needed.
- Administrative Support:
- Maintain organized records of communication activities and materials.
- Assist with the preparation of reports and presentations for internal and external audiences.
- Provide general administrative support to the communications team as needed.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
- Minimum of 2-4 years of experience in a communications role, preferably within a professional association or healthcare setting.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency in social media management and digital communication tools.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and familiarity with content management systems.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Company events
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Paid time off
- RRSP match
- Vision care
- Work from home
Schedule:
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (required)
Experience:
- Communication skills: 2 years (preferred)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Toronto, ON M5C 2T6
