Director of Government Relations

Full job description
Why Western?

Western creates, disseminates and applies knowledge for the benefit of society through excellence in teaching, research and scholarship. Our graduates will be global citizens whose education and leadership will serve the public good.

The Government Relations team represents Western at all levels of government and community to advocate on behalf of the overall university community. Through advocacy directly on behalf of Western to various government Ministries and Departments, as well as working with our association partners at Universities Canada, The U15 and the Council of Ontario Universities, the Government Relations team ensures that Western is represented in a professional, beneficial and effective manner. The Government Relations team interfaces with and supports various faculties, departments/offices, faculty, and staff who are seeking advice and assistance on engaging with government on advocacy and promotion of priority files.

Ready to Make an Impact?

Are you passionate about shaping the future through government relations and community engagement? Western University is looking for an experienced and dynamic Director of Government Relations to join our team and build strategic relationships with key government stakeholders.

Reporting to the Executive Director of Government Relations, you will be at the forefront of creating and enhancing relationships between the University and all levels of government, with a primary focus on the municipal government and London community. Your work will directly influence the development and maintenance of strategic partnerships with officials at the City of London, other public sector institutions, and community groups.

As the Director, you'll have the opportunity to:

Lead advocacy efforts and provide strategic advice on Western University’s government relations.
Coordinate and prepare briefing materials for key meetings with government officials.
Support the development and implementation of priority university projects.
Help determine Western’s position on government-related issues that matter most.
Spearhead campus-wide government relations strategies, activities, and information sharing.
Organize and coordinate visits and events with local, provincial, national, and international dignitaries and visitors.
Why This Opportunity?

Your Expertise Matters: Bring your 5+ years of experience in government relations or working within a government office to a role where your skills will truly shine.
Impactful Work: If you’ve worked in a post-secondary environment, your experience will add tremendous value to our mission of fostering positive change.
Thriving in Complexity: Thrive in complex environments? We want someone who can seamlessly coordinate projects and collaborate across teams to achieve results.
Local Advantage: Have experience in London, Ontario’s government offices or relations? Your knowledge of the local landscape will set you up for success!
What’s in it for You?

Growth and Challenge: Take your career to new heights while tackling exciting and impactful projects.
Collaborative Environment: Join a dedicated team that values innovation and collaboration, where your contributions are valued and recognized.
Shape the Future: Play a key role in shaping the future of government relations and policy at a higher level.
If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and make a difference, we want to hear from you!

Please note, this is a 1-year contract opportunity covering a leave. Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Western Values Diversity

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any ****** orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 51+-661-21+4.