Corporate Communications Specialist

Job Description

Rakuten Kobo is a global leader in digital reading, offering one of the world's largest catalogues of eBooks and audio books, award‑winning eReaders, and a beloved mobile app. As part of the Rakuten Group, a global leader in internet services, Kobo is driven by a mission to empower readers worldwide to read more, anytime, anywhere. We are a passionate team of innovators, technologists, and book lovers dedicated to enhancing the reading experience through cutting‑edge technology and a commitment to literary diversity.

Join us in shaping the future of digital reading and connecting millions with the stories they love. Our culture thrives on innovation, collaboration, and a shared passion for literature, all while upholding Kobo's strategic priorities and values. Born in Toronto, Kobo embodies a unique journey from a local startup to a global community, fostering an environment of flexibility, intentional connection, and practical empathy in how we work.

Owned by Tokyo‑based Rakuten and headquartered in Toronto, Rakuten Kobo Inc. is one of the most advanced global e‑commerce companies, with the world’s most innovative e‑reading services. We offer more than 6 million eBooks and audio books to 30 million+ customers in 190 countries. Kobo delivers the best digital reading experience through creative innovation, award‑winning e‑readers, and top‑ranking mobile apps. Kobo is a part of the Rakuten group of companies.

The Corporate Communications Specialist will play a pivotal role in supporting the execution of Rakuten Kobo's corporate and internal communications strategies, with a strong focus on our Toronto‑based team and local engagements. This role is crucial for fostering an informed and engaged workforce, supporting executive communications, and enhancing Kobo's presence within the local community, all while reinforcing Kobo's strategic priorities and values.

The Specialist will work closely with the Head of Corporate Communications to ensure consistent messaging and effective delivery across various channels, directly contributing to freeing up senior resources for strategic priorities and actively encouraging employee advocacy for the Kobo brand. You will be instrumental in nurturing our unique hybrid work model, utilizing our reimagined Toronto office as an asset for connection, creativity, and belonging.

• Internal Communications Strategy & Execution: Develop, draft, edit, and distribute compelling internal communications content tailored for our global employees, including company‑wide announcements, monthly employee newsletters (Kobo Vibe), intranet updates, and executive messages. Ensure all internal communications align with Kobo's values and strategic objectives, fostering a strong, inclusive culture and reinforcing the importance of intentional connection in our hybrid environment.
• Internal Communications Events: Lead the planning and execution of key Toronto‑based internal communications events, such as weekly Town Halls and the yearly global company kick‑off. Assist the Employee Celebrations committee with in‑office milestone celebrations (e.g., product launches, team achievements) and the annual holiday party. Ensure seamless execution, high employee engagement, and alignment with Kobo's cultural initiatives.
• HR
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Collaborate closely with HR and the Employee Experience team in Toronto to ensure timely, relevant, and engaging employee communications, fostering a strong Kobo culture and reinforcing employee advocacy for the Kobo brand, whether employees are working from home or in our inspiring office space.
• SharePoint Management: Manage and update the internal SharePoint communication site, ensuring content is current, accessible, and reflects Kobo's strategic messaging and our evolving ecosystem of work.
• Strategic Communications: Assist in developing and implementing internal communication strategies for significant organizational changes, cultural initiatives, and critical employee messaging within the Toronto office, in close partnership with HR, embracing our flexible approach to work.
• Executive Communications…