Executive Director, Government Relations

About the Company

Prominent research-intensive university

Industry
Higher Education

Type
Educational Institution

Founded
1841

Employees
5001-10,000

Categories
Canada
Engineering
Higher Education
Kingston
Ontario
Queen's University

Specialties
academic research
law
engineering
applied science
health sciences
business
arts
graduate studies
computing
creative arts
education
humanities
languages
life and physical sciences
medicine
social sciences
and policy studies

Business Classifications
B2C

About the Role

The Company is seeking an Executive Director for Government Relations to lead the strategic engagement with decision-makers at all levels. This pivotal role involves navigating the evolving landscape of government priorities, including research security, innovation, economic development, and workforce issues. The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying opportunities, mitigating risks, and advancing the institution's priorities through effective advocacy strategies. Key responsibilities include providing strategic leadership for the government relations function, advising on public policy developments,



and leading a team of specialists in this area. The role also requires exceptional relationship-building and communication skills, with a proven ability to influence outcomes and establish credibility with senior leaders and government officials.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic and collaborative leader with extensive experience in government relations, public policy, or a related field. A robust understanding of legislative, regulatory, and policy processes within a multi-level government workplace is essential, as is a track record of translating complex issues into actionable advice for senior decision-makers. Experience in the post-secondary sector, research and innovation ecosystems, and government funding environments is highly valued. The Executive Director will work closely with the Vice-Principal, University Relations, and other senior leaders to ensure that the institution's operations, reputation, and long-term objectives are supported and advanced. A university degree is required, with a preference for a graduate degree in a relevant discipline.

Hiring Manager Title
Vice-Principal, University Relations

Functions
Education/Academic Administration
Strategy

📌 Executive Director, Government Relations Ottawa
🏢 Important Group
📍 Ottawa