Manager government relations and community engagement

Department: Government Relations and Community Engagement

The position is represented by the agreement between the Professional Staff Association and the University of Guelph.
If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant.

The University of Guelph (U of G) is a top comprehensive, research-intensive institution that has been at the forefront of academic excellence and innovation, offering a diverse range of programs and fostering a vibrant learning community. With 30,000 students and three unique campuses, U of G is focused on training future leaders while also improving life. Our programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary for success in today's rapidly evolving global landscape.

We take pride in our commitment to research and innovation, addressing the pressing challenges facing society and making meaningful contributions globally.

The Government Relations and Community Engagement team, part of the Office of the President and Vice‑Chancellor, is a dedicated team of professionals who work across the University to advance its strategic priorities. As Manager, Government Relations & Community Engagement, you will play a pivotal role in supporting U of G’s interest with government and community stakeholders. Reporting to the Director, you will foster positive relationships with policymakers, stay informed about current and emerging issues and pursue funding opportunities.

With a strategic and proactive mindset, you will develop forward‑looking plans and strategies to support areas of importance to the University. You will exercise a high level of project management acumen, monitor external activities at all levels of government, and effectively synthesize and communicate relevant information, recommendations and briefing materials to internal partners.

• Develop and implement government relations strategies and advocacy plans in support of U of G priorities
• Proactively monitor public policy and legislation to identify trends, potential threats and opportunities to the University’s operations; develop materials for internal and external use, including position statements, talking points, white papers, presentations, and submissions
• Identify opportunities for government officials to participate in University activities and act as a point of contact for on‑campus events and visits
• Work with campus partners to manage all aspects of government announcements, events and visits to campus
• Represent the University with government and community stakeholders, including meetings, delegations and consultations
• Monitor and coordinate lobbyist requirements for the federal and provincial lobbyist registries, including educating and liaising with internal stakeholders on requirements and reporting
• Create and maintain a government and community engagement contact management system
• Participate with, contribute to, and support the Office of Government Relations and Community Engagement; this role will involve occasional travel and may require working outside of regular hours of business

• A university degree in political science, public policy, business/public administration, or a related field
• 3 to 6 years of experience working in a government, advocacy, community, stakeholder, or community engagement role; experience in the post‑secondary sector is an asset
• Strong knowledge of the inner workings of government, including the decision‑making processes, relevant programming and reporting requirements, and the political process and environment
• Proven strategic thinking with the ability to translate to effective operational execution
• Demonstrable experience researching, monitoring and impacting public policy, legislative and regulatory requirements through the development and implementation of strategic advocacy campaigns
• Experience preparing communications materials, including briefing notes, presentations and other documents for post‑secondary leaders and/or government audiences
• Significant experience working in…