About Our Client

Our client is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that is issues based. We are looking for a Government Relations Officer to join their team. This person will be responsible for managing the organization’s relationships with government officials, public institutions, and policymakers at all levels. Although our client’s preferred location is Ottawa, they will consider candidates from other locations in Ontario and Quebec. The officer will collaborate with internal teams and external partners to shape public policy, engage in legislative processes, and raise awareness of issues.

Responsibilities

• Act as the primary liaison between and government officials, policymakers, and relevant agencies at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels.
• Develop and implement advocacy strategies to influence public policy, legislation, and regulations.
• Monitor and analyze relevant policy developments, legislation, and government programs to identify opportunities for advocacy.
• Draft letters, position papers, briefs, and submissions to government stakeholders on key issues.
• Engage with political leaders, bureaucrats, and governmental bodies.
• Work closely with senior leadership to define and prioritize government relations objectives and strategies.
• Provide expertise and advice on government affairs, policy development, and advocacy initiatives.
• Ensure that the organization’s position on various issues is clear, consistent, and effective in all communications with government representatives.
• Build and maintain relationships with key government stakeholders, community leaders, other advocacy organizations, and industry associations.
• Coordinate meetings, events, and briefings to raise awareness of key issues and strengthen the organization’s influence in government circles.
• Collaborate with internal teams to support the development of public campaigns, presentations, and lobbying efforts.
• Stay up to date on relevant legislative developments, bills, and political trends.
• Track and analyze government policies, budgets, and legislative actions, ensuring timely reporting to internal stakeholders.
• Prepare regular updates and reports for leadership and stakeholders on advocacy outcomes, government relations efforts, and key developments in the political landscape.
• Conduct research on policies, programs, and issues, compiling data and evidence to support advocacy efforts.
• Provide insights and recommendations on how to best engage with government bodies and policymakers to achieve organizational goals.
• Support the development of public statements, media releases, and speeches to further the organization’s government relations goals.
• Help prepare senior leadership for meetings and engagements with government representatives, providing briefing materials and talking points.

Qualifications:

• A strong understanding of government structures, political processes, and public policy in Canada.
• Proven experience in government relations, public affairs, or policy advocacy, preferably in a non-profit or advocacy setting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft concise and compelling policy documents and communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
• Experience in preparing reports, position papers, and public statements for government and media.
• Strong networking and relationship-building skills with government officials, legislators, and stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Google Suite and familiarity with government databases and resources.
• Experience working in a legislative or policy-making environment.
• A deep understanding of Sikh history, culture, and values.
• Fluency in Punjabi is preferred.
• Strong public speaking and presentation skills.
• Experience in grassroots organizing and mobilization efforts.