Executive Director, Government Relations

About the role

McMaster University is seeking an accomplished and strategic leader to become its Executive Director, Government Relations. Reporting to the inaugural Vice-President, Communications, the Executive Director leads government relations, public policy and advocacy activities, acts as a trusted advisor to the President and senior leadership, and coordinates with the Communications leadership team. The University is looking for someone who can champion its priorities, shape public policy and deepen its engagement with government, industry and community partners.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute an integrated government relations strategy that advances the University's priorities in research, innovation, education, health, infrastructure and student success.
• Engage proactively with federal, provincial and municipal governments and provide strategic counsel on political, policy, legislative, regulatory and funding developments.
• Help the University anticipate risks and opportunities in an evolving public policy environment.
• Coordinate with internal constituents and external partners, and align government relations, public affairs, issues management and institutional communications strategies.

Required profile

• An experienced government relations leader with a proven track record of influencing public policy and building trusted relationships with government, sector, industry and community partners.
• Experience working in or alongside the public sector is essential; experience in post-secondary education is a significant asset.
• Ability to build and lead high-performing teams and advance strategic advocacy initiatives in a complex organization.
• Politically astute, highly collaborative, with strong strategic judgment and communication skills.