Senior Advisor, External Relations

Founded in 2002, the  Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO)  is a not-for-profit organization tasked with the safe, long-term management of Canada’s intermediate- and high-level radioactive waste, in a manner that protects people and the environment for generations to come.

The  NWMO  has been guided for more than 20 years by a dedicated team of world-class scientists, engineers and Indigenous Knowledge Holders who are developing innovative and collaborative solutions for nuclear waste management. In 2024, the  NWMO  selected Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and the Township of Ignace as the potential hosts for the site for a deep geological repository for used nuclear fuel.

This decision means our office and staff will, in the future, be relocating to Ignace, Ont., and  the deep geological repository will be situated in the area of Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and the Township of Ignace . Infrastructure planning and development are underway to support this transition and ensure that both the community and our employees are well served and supported, now and in the future.

Senior Advisor, External Relations

One (1) Position Available – Temporary – 22 months

Position Location:

Toronto Head Office

Job Summary:

We are currently seeking an experienced Senior Advisor, External Relations to join our energetic and fast-paced Communications team. Reporting to the Section Manager, External Relations, the Senior Advisor, External Relations is responsible for leading, developing and implementing a stakeholder relations strategy at a national and provincial level. This work is focused on networks outside of community stakeholders and government though at times may overlap and would work in collaboration with internal peers.

Responsibilities

Lead relationship building with the NWMO’s stakeholders at a provincial, national, and international level such as relevant industry groups, environmental organizations, civil society organizations (CSO), labour groups, think tanks, chambers of commerce etc. This role will not be responsible for stakeholders and CSOs in the NWMO’s siting areas.

Lead, develop and implement the NWMO’s CSO and stakeholder relations strategy.

Identify, manage and prepare for all external events and meetings with stakeholders, including securing speaking opportunities, managing sponsor ships, and advising on exhibitor booth presence at events.

Serve as a NWMO representative in meetings with industry, partners and other stakeholders

Serve as a NWMO representative at external events, conferences, and meetings.

Identify opportunities for the NWMO to align with stakeholder priorities.

Manage an internal stakeholder relations budget.

Support other Civil Society Organization engagement efforts within the NWMO.

Contribute to the NWMO’s visibility strategy, including leading the NWMO’s Executive leadership efforts.

Assist with government relations initiatives as needed.

Respond and prioritize stakeholder requests, questions, and concerns.

Position the NWMO credibly and top-of-mind with government, industry and other stakeholder groups relevant to advancing NWMO priorities, developing and maintaining professional relationships and representing the NWMO at events and speaking opportunities.

Develop strategies including the messages, activities, resources, and progress milestones to achieve meaningful outcomes.

Establish meaningful metrics to measure the outcomes of the strategy. Tracks and reports on progress.

Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications and Experience

A 4 year university degree in communications, public relations or other suitable educational experience that aligns with job requirements.

A minimum of 8 years’ experience with external affairs, stakeholder/public relations and communications, ideally in the nuclear industry.

Should have robust existing relationships/experience with environmental CSOs, labour groups, think tanks, chamber of commerce, etc.

A good understanding of government relations.

Ability to acquire and apply knowledge of the NWMO’s corporate messages, as well as priorities and approvals processes.

Proven background in political stakeholder management.

Proven background in leading…