Senior Manager, Government and External Relations

Colleges Ontario is seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Manager, Government and External Relations, to join our Public Affairs team at our Toronto office. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Public Affairs and Strategic Communications, this pivotal full-time role, with a salary range of $102,287 to $136,382, entails leading strategic advocacy efforts, building robust governmental relationships, and driving policy development to align with the mission and goals of Colleges Ontario and its member base of twenty-four (24) public colleges. The successful candidate will possess a profound understanding of legislative frameworks, exhibit exceptional communication skills, and demonstrate a strong ability to foster an inclusive and collaborative environment.

Key responsibilities include developing comprehensive government relations strategies, maintaining strong relationships with elected officials, leading coalition efforts, and providing expert analysis to senior leadership. Qualifications for this role include a post-secondary credential in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, or a related field, with a master's degree preferred, and a minimum of seven years' experience in government relations or advocacy. Fluency in French and experience in the college sector are considered strong assets. This position requires occasional evening or weekend work. Passion for advocating for Ontario’s public colleges and a proven record of influencing legislative outcomes are essential.

Colleges Ontario is committed to ensuring an accessible workplace in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We strive to provide accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodation, please inform us, and we will work with you to meet your needs.

We are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, reflecting the diversity of the communities we serve. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who are members of underrepresented communities, including Indigenous peoples, racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Our commitment to inclusivity ensures that all voices are heard and valued in the pursuit of our objectives.

Please apply by Friday, July 5th, 2024 by sending one (1) PDF file with your cover letter, resume and sample writing style to Luly Bello, at bello@collegesontario.org. Please do not apply through LinkedIn, only those who apply as instructed will be considered.

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Vice President of Public Affairs and Strategic Communications, the Senior Manager of Government and External Relations is entrusted with a crucial role in shaping and implementing strategies that influence public policy and legislative outcomes in harmony with the mission and goals of Colleges Ontario and that of its members the 24 public colleges of Ontario. This pivotal position demands a profound grasp of the legislative framework, robust connections with governmental stakeholders, and a distinguished capacity to articulate our stances on critical issues with clarity and conviction. The role is designed to foster an inclusive environment that encourages diverse perspectives and collaborative solutions, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued in the pursuit of our objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Advocacy and Policy Development:

• Develop and lead the implementation of comprehensive government relations strategies to advance Colleges Ontario’s legislative, political, and policy priorities.
• Monitor, analyze, and respond to legislative and political developments that impact our mission and stakeholders.
• Coordinate with other departments to align advocacy efforts with organizational goals and initiatives.
• Collaborate across internal teams and external stakeholders to identify policy issues and develop advocacy positions.

Legislative Outreach and Relationship Building:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with provincial elected officials, external stakeholders, and key policymakers.
• Lead the sector-wide government relations committee to inform and coordinate government relations activities for all twenty-four (24) public colleges.
• Represent Colleges Ontario at stakeholder and political meetings and events.
• Advocate for our policy positions through direct lobbying, at events, and with written communications.

Coalition Building and Collaboration:

• Lead and participate in coalitions and partnerships with other organizations to advance common advocacy goals.
• Coordinate joint advocacy efforts and campaigns to amplify our voice and influence.
• Engage and mobilize supporters, volunteers, and members to participate in advocacy activities.

Communication and Public Relations:

• Work with the policy team to develop and disseminate advocacy materials, including briefs, fact sheets, and position statements.
• Work with the communications team to create content for newsletters, social media, and press releases related to government relations.
• Serve as a spokesperson for Colleges Ontario on policy issues, as needed.
• Work with internal teams to plan and execute events focused on engaging government and external stakeholders.

Research and Analysis:

• Work with the policy team to identify key issues and research questions on legislative and emerging political issues relevant to our mission.
• Work with the policy and communication teams to develop government-focused reports and products.
• Work with the marketing research lead to inform public opinion insights research.
• Prepare leave-behinds and presentations to inform and support advocacy efforts.
• Provide expert analysis and recommendations to senior leadership on government relations, policy positions, and legislative matters.

Team Leadership and Management:

• Supervise, coach and mentor government relations staff and interns.
• Manage budget and resources allocated to government relations activities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary credential (degree or diploma) in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, or a related field; master’s degree preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in supervising and coaching diverse community of staff ensuring an inclusive, positive culture.
• 7+ years of experience in government relations, public policy, or advocacy.
• Demonstrated record of successfully influencing legislative and regulatory outcomes.
• Strong understanding of the legislative process and government structures at the local, provincial, and/or federal levels.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills exercising high emotional intelligence to build and maintain relationships with diverse community of stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute comprehensive advocacy plans.
• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Fluency in French, experience with the college sector, and political work considered strong assets.
• Passion for Colleges Ontario’s mission and a desire to advocate for Ontario’s public colleges.

Notice: this description was created using AI with human oversight to ensure appropriate and consistent language.