Officer, Policy & Advocacy

Engaged•Ottawa, ON

2d•CA$59,535 - CA$74,419•Remote

About The Position

Food Banks Canada is seeking a Policy and Advocacy Officer to join their team. This national advocacy role requires political insight and policy skills to drive change. The officer will advance evidence-based solutions to reduce hunger and poverty in Canada by shaping policy research, supporting high-impact campaigns, and strengthening relationships across the federal landscape. This role involves collaborating with colleagues, food bank leaders, public servants, and elected officials to move strategic priorities forward and champion the voices of communities experiencing food insecurity. The position is central to government relations work, involving tracking legislative developments, drafting briefing materials and reports, and coordinating engagement with policymakers and partners. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced political environments, possesses strong analytical and communication skills, and is motivated to influence long-term systems change.

Requirements

Completion of an undergraduate degree or equivalent, preferably in political science
Minimum 4 years relevant experience and/or education
Self-starter with the ability to effectively coordinate multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities
Clear, professional, and warm communicator
Solid project management skills
Problem solver and strong relationship building skills
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy including strong proofreading skills
Candidate must demonstrate a deep knowledge of Canada’s political systems and an understanding of how public policy is implemented

Nice To Haves

Experience working in federal politics is an asset
Experience in grassroots advocacy and campaign development is an asset
Bilingualism (English/French) is an asset

Responsibilities

Conduct research and impact analysis on policy, legislation, and regulatory issues; monitors government and legislative activity and reports regularly on how these developments affect the policy and government relations goals of Food Banks Canada and the food bank network
Support the development of Food Banks Canada signature reports, such as the HungerCount and Poverty Report Card
Assist in the drafting of briefing material, reports, policy recommendations, and consultation submissions to support Food Banks Canada’s advocacy and government relations work, in collaboration with the Research Department
Support the planning and execution of advocacy campaigns that seek to raise awareness and understanding about food insecurity and poverty in Canada, and that seek to influence policy change
Develop and maintain relationships with elected officials, political staff, and federal public servants, acting as a liaison on behalf of Food Banks Canada
In collaboration with the Manager, Advocacy and Government Relations maintain regular contact with provincial associations and provide advice and assistance on advocacy, policy, and government relations