Manager, Government Relations

McGill University

About The Position

Reporting to the Associate Director, Government & Institutional Relations, you will play a key role in developing and nurturing strong partnerships with the Government of Canada and other key stakeholders to advance McGill University’s academic mission and strategic priorities. Your responsibilities will include fostering productive relationships with federal government officials, members of Parliament, and civil servants. In promoting the University’s strategic plans and initiatives, you will work closely with colleagues in the offices of the President, Provost, and Vice-Presidents to shape advocacy strategies at the federal level. Additionally, you will provide strategic advice and tactical support to McGill’s senior leadership on government relations and federal advocacy efforts. Building alliances with other universities and stakeholders will also be a focus, helping to further priority advocacy initiatives. You will guide and support members of the McGill community in their outreach to federal government representatives

Requirements

A university degree in political science, public policy, law, or a related field.
At least 5-7 years of experience in government relations, public policy, or a related role, preferably with a focus on federal government engagement.
Bilingual; must possess a high level of proficiency in spoken and written French / English.
Established and effective network of contacts in government.
Sound knowledge of public policy and government structures, both political and administrative.

Nice To Haves

A master’s degree is considered an asset.
Experience working in or with federal government institutions is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a strategic government relations plan focused on advancing McGill University’s interests at the federal level, including research funding, public policy development, and regulatory matters.
Monitor and analyze federal government policies, legislative developments, and political trends that affect higher education and research. Provide strategic advice to senior leadership on potential impacts and opportunities for the university.
Cultivate and maintain productive relationships with federal government officials, including members of Parliament, government agencies, ministers, and relevant staff. Serve as a primary point of contact for government stakeholders on federal matters.
Work closely with internal stakeholders, including the President's Office and faculty leaders, to identify federal funding opportunities and align McGill’s strategic priorities with government policy and funding programs.
Develop targeted advocacy campaigns to communicate McGill’s priorities to government audiences. Draft briefings, policy submissions, and correspondence to key government officials and coordinate meetings with federal representatives.
Organize and coordinate government-related events, such as meetings, roundtables, and campus visits by federal representatives. Represent McGill at relevant external events, conferences, and government consultations.
Provide regular updates to the Associate Director, Government & Institutional Relations, on government relations activities, policy developments, and advocacy efforts. Prepare reports, briefings, and presentations for senior management.

Benefits

Competitive benefits package (Health, Dental, Life Insurance) (if eligible)
Defined contribution pension plan (with employer contribution up to 10%) (if eligible)
Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)
Competitive vacation policy
Two (2) personal days
Two (2) floating holidays
Nine (9) "Summer Fridays" - paid days off between the St-Jean Baptiste holiday and Labour Day
Paid time off over the December holiday period
Tuition waiver for regular employees and their dependents
Up to two (2) days of remote work per week where the position permits