Government Relations Consultant

Toronto Hydro•Toronto, ON

2d•CA$100,943 - CA$126,179•Hybrid

About The Position

The Government Relations Consultant is responsible for leading municipal policy and issues management activities aligned with the organization’s corporate objectives, with a focus on City of Toronto operations. Working closely with senior leadership and municipal stakeholders, the role provides policy analysis and strategic advice on emerging issues, identifies and mitigates risks in coordination with internal business units, and pursues advocacy on sensitive matters. This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Public Policy or a related field
Five (5) or more years of experience in communications, public policy or government relations, including stakeholder relations
Demonstrated experience writing communications products including briefing notes and key messages
Strong understanding of municipal and provincial government processes, including the City of Toronto’s operations
Demonstrated experience engaging with municipal public officials and office holders on complex or sensitive issues
Experience working in municipal government or municipal government relations strongly preferred
Knowledge of energy-related policies and the utilities industry is considered an asset
Demonstrated experience advising and working with senior leaders on the development and implementation of issues management strategies
Proven analytical, political acuity and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail
Strong relationship management skills to build trusted relationships with leaders, internal and external stakeholders
Strong networking skills developed through government relations, industry associations and professional associations
Excellent verbal and written communications skills, including the ability to negotiate
Proven ability to manage competing priorities and adapt in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

Experience working in municipal government or municipal government relations strongly preferred
Knowledge of energy-related policies and the utilities industry is considered an asset

Responsibilities

Represents Toronto Hydro in highly politicized and high-risk situations affecting brand and reputation, such as complex or sensitive customer escalations, as well as broader corporate interests
Serves as Toronto Hydro's liaison with elected officials at the ward/riding level (Councillors, MPP’s, MP’s) to resolve issues, identify and mitigate broader corporate risks, and in the promotion of positive customer and stakeholder experience
Executes strategies to mitigate emerging or identified risks by working closely with subject matter experts and collaborating with government officials
Generates qualitative and quantitative analysis on emerging municipal and provincial issues to advise senior management
Conducts research and environmental scanning of the industry and like organizations to understand and validate best practices on emerging risks and issues
Conducts reviews of government reports or proposals to inform risk mitigation activities and prospective lines of advocacy in support of corporate objectives
Monitors and reports on developments at City Council, including Council and Committee agendas and meetings