Senior Advisor, Government & Indigenous Relations

VIA Rail Canada • Toronto, ON

2d • CA$96,110 - CA$113,071

About The Position

VIA Rail is undertaking ambitious projects to modernize its services and infrastructure, including a new train fleet and ongoing infrastructure improvements, aiming to build the future of transportation in Canada and contribute to sustainable mobility. Reporting to the Vice-President, Government Relations and Indigenous Affairs, the Senior Advisor, Indigenous Relations holds a key leadership position. This role is central to VIA Rail’s Indigenous Relations strategy, responsible for its development and implementation, including an action plan to foster strong, sustainable relationships that align with company objectives and the shareholder's commitment to reconciliation. The position involves engaging with approximately 80 Indigenous communities across VIA Rail’s service network, with a focus on communities between Winnipeg and Churchill. The role requires building meaningful relationships through ongoing meetings, consultations, discussions, and engagement activities, particularly concerning VIA Rail’s pan-Canadian fleet renewal program and the future of passenger rail services.

Requirements

• University degree in Political Science, Communications, or a related field
• Approximately 10 years of experience in government relations, including significant experience working with Indigenous communities and organizations
• Strong knowledge of Indigenous communities located along VIA Rail’s operating corridors and an understanding of relevant treaties
• Excellent written and spoken English and French
• Demonstrated experience in crisis and issues management
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously and perform effectively under pressure
• Strong strategic thinking skills, with the ability to assess issues from a broad perspective and develop innovative solutions
• Proven ability to communicate, influence, and advocate effectively
• Ability to present and debate ideas effectively
• Excellent analytical, synthesis, and conceptual thinking skills
• Collaborative mindset with a strong commitment to partnership and teamwork
• Initiative, autonomy, curiosity, creativity, and adaptability

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of one or more Indigenous languages is considered an asset

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement VIA Rail’s Indigenous Relations plan for approximately 80 Indigenous communities served by or interacting with VIA Rail across Canada, ensuring alignment with corporate business objectives
• Define and execute a strategy to build and strengthen relationships with Indigenous peoples by identifying and understanding their needs and assessing current relationships and programs (internal and external) involving VIA Rail
• Establish and maintain strong, long-term relationships with Indigenous communities and foster mutually beneficial partnerships with communities served by VIA Rail
• Advise, support, and guide senior leadership in their interactions with Indigenous communities to ensure these engagements are strategic, consistent, and effective
• Work collaboratively across the organization to manage situations that may impact VIA Rail’s relationships with Indigenous communities or the company’s reputation
• Oversee the timely and effective development of communications directed to Indigenous communities, including letters, briefing notes, reports, and other materials
• Monitor the political, social, and community landscape to identify emerging opportunities and issues that could affect VIA Rail’s reputation or strategic objectives
• Provide senior management with timely strategic analysis, recommendations, and reports

Benefits

• Employment-equity employer
• Inclusive and equitable work environment where everyone is valued
• Assistance in making the recruitment process or the position more accessible
• Alternate arrangements may be offered to individuals who request them at any stage of the recruitment process

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior