Director, Government Relations

Director, Government Relations

Our members are changing the world – We’re helping them do it.

Ask Canadians and they will tell you how much they value the food, beverages and household products that enhance their everyday lives – these are the products FCPC members are proud to make. Employing 300,000 people in more than 9,000 facilities in communities from coast to coast, Canada’s food and consumer product sector is a key pillar of the Canadian economy, positioning Canada to feed the world for years to come.

In an evolving marketplace, we’re driving innovation, listening and responding to the needs of consumers, rethinking age old practices and leading the way in sustainability and transparency. Along every step of the way, FCPC is influencing the policy dialogue around the very issues that are shaping our industry and the food and consumer products that Canadians rely on every day. Sound interesting? Come join us in our Ottawa Office.

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Director, Government Relations

The Role

Reporting to the SVP, Government Relations, the Director, Government Relations will work closely with government to advance FCPC priorities and to help ensure that the government’s policies, regulations and legislation reflect the needs of our members and provide a competitive operating environment for the industry.

The Director identifies opportunities for collaboration, increases the visibility of FCPC in Ottawa, participates actively in government consultations and provides critical industry insight on issues that have the potential to impact food and consumer product manufacturers in Canada.

The Responsibilities

Working with the Ottawa Team, the Director, Government Relations, will help support and grow our presence in the nation’s capital. The Director will:

  • Support the work of SVP, Government Relations and work closely with the Associate of GR
  • Monitor legislative, policy and regulatory activity that may affect the industry
  • Work with GR Team on the development and implementation of a whole-of-government strategy and engagement plan
  • Draft government correspondence, pre-budget submissions, position papers, etc.
  • Lead work on Canada-US relations for members; host quarterly internal meetings with members
  • Develop public policy positions focusing on the competitiveness of the industry.
  • Participate in government meetings, consultations, roundtables and conferences.
  • Perform general administrative duties as required to support the operation of the small Ottawa Office.
  • Organize Ottawa-based government meetings, events, receptions and Lobby Days.
  • Draft communications pieces including content for internal newsletter, and oversee our MP newsletter and leave-behinds.

 

Your Required Skills

  • 5-8 years experience in public affairs, including work in a federal political office
  • Superb written and oral communication skills
  • Experience in government advocacy/ lobbying, including developing policy positions, drafting submissions and letters
  • Knowledge of international trade, manufacturing and/or economic issues.
  • Bilingual (French & English) is an asset

 

Critical Competencies

  • Understanding of the federal government legislative, regulatory and public process
  • Solid grasp of how political decisions and elected officials influence Canadian public policy
  • Proven ability in written communications
  • Work well under pressure, prioritize and effectively multi-task
  • Based in Ottawa and ability to travel to Toronto (approximately 6 times per year)

 

The Fine Print

As this is a position that is focused on lobbying, the successful applicant will require a letter from the Office of the Commissioner of Lobbying to confirm that they are able to perform the activities as outlined in the job description.

At FCPC we believe that differing perspectives lead to challenging the expected, which keeps new ideas bubbling up. We’re an equal opportunity employer and invite applications from candidates from all backgrounds, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic.

 

How to Apply

Interested applicants can send their resume by Friday, October 18 along with a cover letter outlining your interest in the position to jobs@fcpc.ca.

We thank all applicants, however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.