Executive Director, Government & Community Relations

Brock University • St. Catharines, ON

1d • CA$118,322 - CA$170,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Vice-President, External, the Executive Director, Government & Community Relations provides visionary and operational leadership for Brock University’s integrated government and community relations function to advance institutional-level priorities, ensuring proactive engagement with all levels of government and key community stakeholders. The incumbent sets direction, establishes priorities, and oversees delivery across government and community relations initiatives in support of Brock’s goals and broader institutional objectives. Additionally, the Executive Director, Government & Community Relations acts as a senior advisor to the executive team, representing Brock in high-level negotiations and forums and driving initiatives that enhance Brock’s visibility and influence.

Requirements

• Leadership experience in government relations, public affairs, or advocacy.
• Experience influencing policy and securing funding at multiple levels of government.
• Experience managing high-level relationships and leading strategic initiatives.
• Ability to develop and implement a clear vision and direction, and establish strategic goals and objectives that align with Brock’s mission.
• Ability to generate innovative ideas and translate into practical solutions that drive progress.
• Excellent project management abilities with flexibility and effective communication to navigate transitions.
• Ability to influence others by building strong relationships through trust, effective communication and emotional intelligence.
• Ability to coach, mentor and guide team members to help them achieve their individual and common goals.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills to evaluate problems and develop well-considered solutions.
• Ability to maintain composure in challenging situations, ensuring thoughtful and rational decision making.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership in developing and implementing multi-year government and community relations plans, ensuring alignment with Brock’s institutional priorities.
• Provide leadership and strategic counsel on responses to government and community inquiries, ensuring advocacy documents, funding proposals, and communications reflect Brock’s institutional voice and strategic positioning.
• Drive initiatives that influence policy and legislative decisions, secure funding from all levels of government, and strengthen relationships with key partners to enhance Brock’s presence and reputation.
• Advise the President, and senior leadership on emerging legislative and policy issues to inform institutional decision-making.
• Provide oversight for departmental budgeting and financial planning, leading multi-year financial strategies and annual budget processes.
• Lead the team in building influential relationships with elected officials, senior public servants, and policy leaders across all levels of government.
• Oversee and ensure transparency and data-driven decision-making through progress reports, metrics, and impact analyses.
• Lead high-level engagement with community leaders, organizations, and stakeholders, identify synergies and opportunities.
• Oversee negotiation and approval of institution-wide partnership agreements, ensuring alignment with Brock’s strategic priorities, financial sustainability, and long-term positioning with domestic and international partners.
• Serve as a key liaison between external stakeholders and Brock leadership, ensuring community feedback informs strategic planning and decision-making.
• Oversee and lead strategic projects that deepen Brock’s expertise and partnerships, driving innovation and impact in government and community engagement.

Benefits

• Health & Dental Benefits: Comprehensive extended health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Pension Plan: Enrollment eligibility in the Brock University Pension Plan.
• Vacation: Up to 3 weeks per year, in addition to university holidays.
• Professional Development: Eligibility for the Brock Tuition Waiver Program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: No Education Listed