About Us For the last five decades, NATIONAL’s Public Affairs team has helped organizations navigate complex policy environments and shape reputation through smart government relations and strategic communications. From energy and transportation to consumer goods and labour, we work on mandates that sit at the intersection of public policy, media and stakeholder engagement.

We’re looking for a director who can lead with sound judgment, build lasting relationships, and help our team deliver high-impact work across Canada.

The role You’ll lead public affairs mandates from strategy to execution, translating political, legislative and regulatory developments into clear, actionable recommendations for clients. This senior advisory role requires a strong understanding of federal and Ontario political dynamics and the ability to anticipate policy shifts. It combines client leadership, business development and team leadership within a collaborative, pan-Canadian team.

Key Responsibilities

Lead client accounts and serve as a trusted advisor on government relations and public affairs strategy

Identify and pursue business development opportunities, including expanding existing client relationships

Develop advocacy and communications plans, including earned media and digital approaches, aligned to client objectives

Provide counsel on current events, policy and political developments and their implications for client business goals

Manage project delivery, including timelines, budgets, reporting and quality control across team outputs

Build and maintain senior-level relationships with clients, elected officials, political staff, senior public servants and industry stakeholders

Mentor and develop team members through coaching, goal setting and delegation of meaningful opportunities

Stay current on emerging tools, platforms and best practices and integrate them into public affairs programs

Qualifications





10+ years of experience in government relations/public affairs (agency/consulting experience is an asset)

Experience working in a political office (e.g., on Parliament Hill or at Queen’s Park, or similar legislative environments) or advising elected officials or ministers, is strongly preferred

Post-secondary education in political science, communications, public relations or a related field

Proven ability to develop clear, compelling communications content for public affairs audiences

Experience using digital advocacy approaches and social platforms to support public affairs mandates

Excellent writing, editing, presentation and interpersonal skills

Comfort using AI-enabled tools (e.g., ChatGPT)

Nice to have: Bilingualism (English and French).

Abilities

Strategic thinker who can simplify complex issues and provide practical recommendations

Client-service mindset with strong relationship-building and stakeholder management skills

Strong project management skills and comfort working with budgets and tight deadlines

Collaborative leader who can motivate teams and contribute to an inclusive workplace

Proactive, detail-oriented and able to manage multiple priorities at once

What We Offer

Hybrid work environment and a supportive, collegial office culture

Competitive compensation and comprehensive advantages

Opportunities to work on high-profile mandates with leading organizations across sectors

Professional development, coaching and growth opportunities within a national team

Occasional travel as required by client and team needs

Expected Compensation The expected salary for this role is $92,000-$115,000 CAD. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, skills, and internal equity.

NATIONAL is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Should you require any accommodation during the selection process, please inform us.

📌 Director, Public Affairs (Toronto)
🏢 NATIONAL Public Relations
📍 Toronto