Head of Government Relations

Salary Range: CA$ To CA$ Annually

Salary Range: $125,000 - $175,000

Position Title:

Head of Government Relations

Employment Type:

Full Time, Permanent

Reports to:

Chief Executive Officer

Location:

On-Site - 15 Kern Rd, Toronto, ON, M3B 1S9

Reason for Vacancy:
Existing Vacancy

OREA'S
MISSION

At the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA), it is our goal to keep the dream of home ownership alive. That's why it is our mission to support the province’s nearly 100,000 REALTORS in helping people find a great place to call home, work, and thrive.

We deliver on that mission by playing a central role in advancing professional standards through advocacy, leadership development, Standard Forms education, and much more.

JOB DESCRIPTION

We are looking for a strategic and relationship-focused leader to join our Government Relations team as Head of Government Relations. Reporting to the CEO, the Head of Government Relations is responsible for developing and executing OREA's government relations and advocacy strategy, building and maintaining relationships with government and industry stakeholders, and advancing the Association's public policy priorities. The position provides strategic advice to senior leadership and the Board of Directors, leads advocacy initiatives and events, supports Member Board advocacy efforts across Ontario, and oversees government relations staff and programs to further OREA's advocacy objectives.

• Develop and execute OREA's annual government relations and advocacy plan, with clear objectives, engagement tactics, timelines and measures aligned with the Association's strategic direction and approved policy priorities.
• Advise the CEO, President, Board of Directors and relevant committees on political developments, legislative opportunities and risks.
• Recommend and coordinate timely advocacy responses to legislative, regulatory and public policy issues affecting REALTORS, consumers and the real estate sector.
• Monitor the political environment, government agendas, elections and legislative activity.
• Combine political intelligence with Public Affairs and Policy's analysis to identify opportunities, anticipate opposition and adapt advocacy tactics.

• Build and sustain productive, non-partisan relationships with Ministers, MPPs, opposition parties, political staff, senior public servants and relevant municipal decision-makers, including through elections and leadership transitions.
• Lead OREA's engagement with government and relevant regulatory stakeholders, including the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO).
• Advance approved positions on housing supply, affordability, barriers to home ownership, real estate professionalism and consumer protection.
• Lead advocacy meetings, legislative committee appearances and delivery of consultation and budget submissions. Set meeting objectives, prepare OREA representatives and ensure commitments and follow-up actions are tracked.

• Maintain strong relationships with Member Board Executive Officers, Presidents, political affairs volunteers and GR staff. Gather local intelligence, reflect regional concerns in provincial advocacy and provide practical support for local initiatives.
• Coordinate with the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) on federal matters and with Member Boards on municipal advocacy, respecting their mandates and relationships. Collaborate with other provincial associations where priorities align.
• Develop coalitions with housing, business and community organizations to advance shared objectives. Represent OREA at government and industry forums within delegated authority.
• Oversee OREA's Government Relations Regional Program,…