Date Posted: March 31, 2023

Posting Deadline: April 28, 2023

Department: Advancement & External Affairs

Type of Employment: Permanent, Full-time

Group Affiliation: APC, Group 9 ($93,883 - $120,987 annually)

At Saint Mary's University, you will be surrounded by a talented and dedicated team of professionals committed to accessibility, diversity, and the provision of a positive and supportive learning environment. We recognize the importance of the contribution and growth of each individual in the University's success. We are currently looking to fill the position of Director, Government Relations to join our Advancement & External Affairs team.

What we offer

As a team member at Saint Mary's, we are proud to offer many benefits. Some of these include:

• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Defined Contribution Pension plan
• Vacation
• Personal days
• Flexible Workplace
• Professional development
• Holiday closure
• Summer hour schedule
• Employee Transit EPass through Halifax Transit

Job Information and Responsibilities

Under the direction of the Vice-President, Advancement & External Affairs, the Director, Government Relations will:

• Support and work directly with the President and the Executive Management Group in the development of university priority projects and positions on university issues
• Provide advocacy and advice for the Saint Mary's University relations with all levels of government
• Provide in-depth analysis through written notes and formal briefings and recommendations on advocacy initiatives and emerging issues and opportunities
• Lead the coordination of campus-wide government relations strategies, activities and information sharing with campus leaders
• Establishes and manages high-value relationships with government, industry, and community organizations
• May be required to act as a university spokesperson

Experience and Education Requirements

To be the successful Director, Government Relations you will have:

• An undergraduate degree in a related field or equivalent education and/or experience
• Minimum seven (7) years experience working in the government (federal, provincial, or municipal) sector or a post-secondary institution, including building relationships with multiple stakeholders
• Advanced public speaking and social media experience with strong oral and written communication skills including the ability to write and edit quickly, accurately, and creatively
• Advanced mediation, communication and people/relationship management skills including the ability to influence, negotiate and build productive working relationships with key stakeholders, senior management and external partners
• Ability to handle competing priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Solid ability to quickly assimilate information, analyze data and be able to provide strategic advice, guidance and decisions as required
• Ability to manage confidential and sensitive materials and situations with the utmost discretion. Must be comfortable with making difficult and complex decisions with good judgement and with acute sensitivity to the political environment and to the reputation of the university
• Experience in a post-secondary institution is considered an asset

Application Details

Apply for this opportunity online using our online application system through Career Beacon. Click on "Apply Now" and complete all required information fields. Qualified candidates should submit the following with their application:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Three Professional References

Late applications may not receive consideration. We appreciate all applications and note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No telephone calls please.

At Saint Mary's University, equity and diversity are integral to excellence and enrich our community. As an institution committed to fostering an environment of inclusion and respect, we encourage all qualified candidates to apply; however, preference will be given to applicants who self-identify as Black/African Nova Scotians, Indigenous peoples, racialized persons/visible minorities, persons with disabilities and women. If you require accommodations during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition at [email protected].