Executive Director, Government Relations

About the Company

Well-regarded public research university

Industry
Higher Education

Type
Educational Institution

Founded
1887

Employees
5001-10,000

Categories
Higher Education
Education
McMaster University
Universities

Specialties
teaching and research and scholarship
research and scholarship
teaching
health sciences
infectious disease research
nuclear science and medicine
commercialization and entrepreneurship
sustainability and decarbonization
inclusive excellence
and engineering

About the Role

The Company is seeking an Executive Director, Government Relations, to lead its government relations, public policy, and advocacy activities. The role involves developing and executing an integrated strategy that advances institutional priorities across research, innovation, education, health, infrastructure, and student success. As a trusted advisor to senior leadership, the Executive Director will build relationships with federal, provincial,



and municipal governments and coordinate engagement with internal and external partners. The position also provides counsel on political, policy, legislative, regulatory, and funding developments, while aligning advocacy, public affairs, issues management, and communications efforts.

The ideal candidate will bring substantial government relations leadership experience and a demonstrated record of influencing public policy, building trusted partnerships, leading high-performing teams, and advancing strategic advocacy in a complex organization. Robust political judgment, collaboration, and exceptional communication skills are essential, along with the ability to navigate changing policy settings with credibility. Experience working in or alongside the public sector is required; post-secondary education experience is an asset.

Hiring Manager Title
Vice-President, Communications

Functions
Education/Academic Administration
Strategy

📌 Executive Director, Government Relations Ontario (Canada)
🏢 Important Company of the Sector
📍 Canada