Director, Government Relations

Overview

The Director, Government Relations, oversees Seaspan’s engagement and advocacy efforts at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels, ensuring these activities align with company priorities and contribute to sustainable growth and strategic goals. The incumbent will support this work by providing a strategic understanding of the Government of Canada’s varied and complex needs, along with detailed knowledge of its decision‑making processes, policies, regulations, and statutes.

The Director, Government Relations, will join the extended leadership team focused on strengthening Seaspan’s reputation and growing its influence across Canada. They will report to the Vice President, Government Relations, and work closely with other Seaspan leaders to advance the company's interests.

This role focuses on setting Seaspan's government engagement priorities and shaping external policy environments that will significantly impact our business strategy, market position, and long‑term growth.

Note:

This position qualifies for an optional hybrid work schedule after 90 days of on‑site work and onboarding. The employee will be subject to the terms of the Flexible Work Policy Agreement. This is an existing vacancy based in our Ottawa office at 1402 – 222 Queen Street.

• Monitor and gather intelligence on federal legislative, regulatory, and budgetary developments, as well as on policy and program initiatives. Brief the Vice President, Government Relations, and other key organization members about how these factors may impact our current goals and future interests.
• Define and steer strategic positioning in response to the current and emerging political landscape.
• Build and sustain effective relationships with government agencies, regulators, and important stakeholders in various government sectors.
• Draft policy briefs, reports, submissions, advocacy strategies, and presentations.
• Lead cross‑functional teams to align on the organization’s needs and coordinate advocacy efforts related to government initiatives.
• Identify and build strategic partnerships with organizations that align with Seaspan’s business goals.
• Maintain vital contact with existing and potential clients. Assist with event planning and public engagement efforts that advance Seaspan’s objectives.
• Support the Business Development team in creating and implementing detailed capture strategies and plans for each approved opportunity.
• Provide subject‑matter expertise and guidance to the Executive Leadership team and other departments within the company.
• Organize and engage in meetings, hearings, and events with government officials.
• Develop and sustain relationships with industry coalitions, trade associations, and advocacy groups.
• Complete all required reporting and proactive disclosure duties for your activities and those of colleagues or teams within the company, as appropriate.

• Bachelor's degree in public policy, law, government, economics, or a related field.
• 10 years of experience in government, politics, government relations, public policy, or advocacy.
• Experience with Canadian government procurement is preferred, particularly with the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) or Canadian Coast Guard (CCG).
• Demonstrated success in advocacy within a government environment.
• Versatile leadership abilities suit both hands‑on management and influential roles.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, adaptable to various government constituencies, including the ability to build professional relationships with government and industry partners.
• Skilled in advocacy, influence, and persuasion, with the ability to inspire action through strong logic, teamwork, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Understanding both the public service and political aspects of government decision‑making.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.

• This is a full‑time, permanent position. With multiple operations and long‑term projects, Seaspan employees enjoy job stability as we look ahead to build ships for decades to come.
• In addition to base salary and pension plan matching, this position is eligible for a performance bonus target of…