Director, Advocacy

About IGNITE At IGNITE Student Union (IGNITE), we believe that advocacy is most effective when it is shaped by a community of diverse, vibrant individuals. As the official student union representing 33,000+ students at Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber, we are committed to building a team that reflects the students we serve. Why Join Us?

• Work-Life Integration: We offer a hybrid environment, generous PTO, and a full holiday closure because we know that our best work happens when we are rested.
• Growth Culture: We prioritize your "whole self" and offer a supportive environment where your ideas lead to action.
• Impact: An opportunity to lead systemic change within a major student union and influence the broader post-secondary landscape.
• Total Rewards: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a pension plan to support your long-term financial well-being.

In this newly created leadership role, the Director, Advocacy will champion IGNITE’s advocacy agenda. Reporting to the CEO, you will lead the creation of evidence-based strategies to amplify student voices through the influence of institutional and public policy. Note on AI: IGNITE does not use AI or automated algorithms to screen or rank candidates. Every application is reviewed by our team. Your Impact (Responsibilities) Strategic Leadership

• Shape the Vision: Design and implement a multi-year advocacy strategy that aligns with IGNITE’s mission.
• Campaign Management: Lead the design and execution of policy campaigns to address student-facing issues (e.g., housing, tuition, mental health).
• Organizational Integration: Ensure advocacy messaging is woven into all IGNITE departments for a unified voice.

Relationship & Community Building

• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and sustain a collaborative network of partners, including community organizations and government bodies.
• Student Empowerment: Partner with Student Advocates to represent priorities at the institutional level, including the Fee Protocol Committee.
• Skill Development: Create tools and workshops to help student leaders develop their own advocacy and policy-shaping skills.

Research & Policy Oversight

• In-depth Analysis: Oversee research on post-secondary education policies and legislative changes to identify emerging challenges.
• Data-Driven Decisions: Use KPIs and feedback to measure the impact of advocacy programs and ensure continuous improvement.
• Equity Lens: Ensure the IGNITE Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) Framework is embedded in all policy work.

What You Bring Studies show that members of marginalized groups often only apply if they meet 100% of the criteria. If you meet roughly 75% of the qualifications below and have a passion for student advocacy, we want to hear from you.

• Advocacy Expertise: Demonstrated success in public policy, stakeholder relations, or community organizing (typically gained over 5+ years).
• Leadership Experience: Experience leading teams or complex projects (typically 5+ years).
• Strategic Communication: The ability to simplify complex policy issues into compelling messages for diverse audiences.
• Relationship Management: Proven ability to build trust and navigate sensitive political or institutional environments.
• Academic/Practical Foundation: A degree in Political Science, Public Policy, or a related field, OR equivalent professional experience that demonstrates a strong understanding of policy systems.
• Project Management: Ability to manage departmental budgets and meet deadlines through effective resource allocation.

Our Hiring Commitment: IGNITE is committed to a workforce that reflects our students. We encourage applications from candidates of all gender identities, sexual orientations, races, ethnicities, abilities, and backgrounds. Accessibility: We will work with you to provide accommodation at any stage of the hiring process (in accordance with AODA). If you require this job posting in an alternative format, please contact our People and Culture team.