Policy and Public Affairs

What we’re looking for: The Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) is seeking an experienced and strategic Vice President, Policy and Public Affairs to provide executive leadership across the organization’s policy, government relations, communications and public affairs functions. The successful candidate will bring sound judgment, strong relationship-building skills and a collaborative leadership style to advance CIP’s national priorities and support the continued implementation of our Strategic Plan. A full description of the role is provided below.

What we do:

CIP is a member-based organization that works on behalf of planning professionals and students across Canada. Our members work on many important issues, from planning new communities and public spaces to expanding public transit and bike paths (and much more). As such, our organization is involved in conversations on how to support aspiring planners on their career journey, as well as policy issues related to climate change, healthy communities, housing, and what it means to support reconciliation and equity, diversity and inclusion in our communities.

Who we are:

CIP is strongly committed to a diverse, inclusive, and accessible workplace and strives to maintain a collaborative work environment that fosters personal and qualified growth for all employees.

Where we are:

Due to the collaborative nature of this role, the Vice President, Policy and Public Affairs will be a hybrid employee and is expected to be in CIP’s downtown Ottawa office, a minimum of two (2) days per week.

CIP respectfully acknowledges that our office is located on the unceded territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Nation. CIP values the ongoing stewardship of all First Nations, Inuit,



and Métis peoples.

What we’re offering:

Compensation for this position is $125,000 - $135,000/year, commensurate with experience, plus the following enhancements:

- A comprehensive benefits package (Extended Health, Dental, Life Insurance, AD&D;, LTD, and Employee and Family Assistance Program) – all premiums paid by CIP except for LTD (LTD premium to be paid by employee)
- An RRSP contribution matching program – up to 5% of gross salary
- Generous vacation entitlement – 20 paid days/year, plus additional non-statutory holidays
- Generous personal leave (for illness, family emergencies, etc.) – up to 20 paid days/year
- Professional development opportunities
- Hybrid office work environment, with flex-time option as per CIP policy

CIP is strongly committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. CIP welcomes applications from those who will contribute to the diversity of our community. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

Position Summary

The Vice President, Policy and Public Affairs is a senior leadership role responsible for advancing the organization’s policy agenda while leading integrated communications, brand, and public affairs strategies. This role ensures alignment between policy development, government relations,



and communications to strengthen the organization’s influence, visibility, and impact.

The Vice President provides strategic oversight across policy, advocacy, government relations, media engagement, and communications, ensuring a unified voice that advances organizational priorities and supports the Strategic Plan. The role directly oversees the Senior Manager of Communications and Manager of Policy and Government Relations, providing leadership, direction, and performance management to ensure high-quality execution and impact.

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

Also works closely with: Senior Leadership Team, Management Team, Government Stakeholders, PTIAs, Board, Industry Partners

Connection to Strategic Plan

This role is critical to advancing CIP’s strategic commitments including “Integrated Action on Complex Issues,” “More Equitable Planning, Together” and “Career Support for Life.” This includes strengthening CIP’s advocacy and policy leadership, supporting reconciliation and enhancing member value through effective communications, thought leadership, and engagement.

By integrating policy, communications, and government relations, the Vice President, ensures that CIP is a strong, credible and influential voice at the national level.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Organizational Impact

- Provide strategic leadership across policy, communications, and government relations functions to ensure alignment with organizational priorities.
- Regularly advise the CEO and senior leadership team on policy positioning, communications strategy, and reputational risk.
- Contribute to organizational strategy, budgetin

📌 Vice President, Policy and Public Affairs (Ottawa)
🏢 Canadian Institute of Planners
📍 Ottawa