Manager, Public Affairs (Ottawa-based)

Manager, Public Affairs (Ottawa-based)
McMaster Job Posting

Communications, Marketing and Public Affairs (CMPA) is responsible for McMaster’s communications (including, media relations, issues management, internal communications, neighbourhood relations), marketing and branding, and public affairs with all three levels of government. It is a dynamic team of professionals who support each other’s success and development. We are seeking an equally talented Manager, Public Affairs (Ottawa-based) (hiring range: $87,276 to $110,000 annually)to join our award-winning team. This position reports to the Executive Director Public Affairs and is based in Ottawa where the primary activity is in relation to the federal government portfolio.

McMaster University is devoted to the cultivation of human potential, realized through our innovative educational programs, cutting-edge research, and the diverse students, faculty, staff and alumni who make up the McMaster family. Dedicated to creating a Brighter World, we recognize that our people are our most valuable resource. Those who join McMaster will find a community of talented individuals who are inspired by the university's commitment to embodying the values of integrity, quality, inclusiveness and teamwork. It is through these talented individuals, their creativity and drive for results that has earned McMaster its reputation as being Canada's "most innovative" university.

The Manager will successfully manage the development and implementation of policies and programs under the purview of the department. This position takes a leadership role in the management and development of strategic communications and public affairs planning and issues management with the federal government and provides strategic counsel to the university’s senior management team.

How You’ll Succeed:

• Strategic development & execution:
  • Manages the successful development of strategic communications and public affairs strategies on a wide range of university issues.
  • Provides a leadership role in the development, implementation and management of the university public affairs programs which is instrumental in the university’s ability to achieve its objectives with the federal government.
  • Develops and leads public affairs plans and strategies in consultation with the Executive Director Public Affairs.
  • Responsible for the development of programs that will facilitate increased understanding of McMaster’s goals, objectives, and successes by increasing the university’s profile with key internal and external stakeholders.
  • Manages and prepares a variety of forms of internal and external strategic communications.
  • Assists with preparing and producing strategic communication materials for a government audience.
  • Develops and manages a comprehensive and proactive strategic public affairs program to highlight McMaster initiatives with the federal government and manage reputation.
• Relationship building:
  • Represents the university to key internal and external stakeholders such as politicians, at all levels of government with a particular focus on the federal level and community leaders, in a wide range of environments including formal engagements (e.g., arranged meetings) and networking opportunities (e.g., receptions).
  • Responsible for relationship development with the university’s key stakeholders such as faculty, staff, bargaining agents, students, media, alumni, supporters, government and the community.
  • Proactive role in ensuring all members of the senior executive team receive timely, reliable and measured advice and successfully implemented programs for internal and external issues.
• Communications and Coordination:
  • Supports McMaster’s Communications, Marketing and Public Affairs priorities.
  • Identifies and develops opportunities for senior officers to maximize effective government relations with government.
  • Implements the university’s crisis management communication plan as needed.
  • Creates, implements and evaluates the effectiveness of all related projects.
  • Acts as a university spokesperson, as required.

Who You Are:

• You bring a minimum 4 years’ experience in government and/or government relations.
• You bring a university degree (a McMaster degree is an asset).
• You can demonstrate experience in exercising judgment in dealing with sensitive situations, experience with issue management and superior organizational skills and ability to deliver high quality work under pressure.
• You embrace and champion change. You'll continuously evolve your thinking and the way you work in order to deliver your best. Proof of a capacity to sort meaningful, relevant and useful insights from overwhelming streams of data.
• English is essential however fluency in Canada's two official languages would be an asset.
• Your influence and presence in Ottawa makes an impact.
• You're creative, agile and look to innovate through the use of evolving technologies.

What McMaster Offers:

• McMaster University has a market-driven total rewards package including a comprehensive benefits plan, including expanded mental health benefit entitlement, health spending account, retirement savings plans, vacation, professional development fund and tuition assistance.
• Starting salary for this position is between the range of $87,276 to $110,000 (annual) depending on level of experience.
• As a member of The Management Group (TMG), the successful candidate will be provided with a highly competitive Total Rewards Program which includes:
  • Hybrid work arrangements and flexible working hours to promote employee wellbeing.
  • Industry-leading paid time off (vacation, personal management days, and holiday closure).
  • Generous salary range with annual performance-based merit review.
  • Comprehensive benefits package (physical health, mental health, dental, vision and healthcare spending account) and group retirement plans.
  • Top-up for pregnancy and parental leaves.
  • Annual professional development allowance as well as Tuition Assistance Program.

How To Apply

To apply for this job, please submit your application online.

McMaster University is located on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Mississauga Nations and within the lands protected by the “Dish With One Spoon” wampum agreement.

The diversity of our workforce is at the core of our innovation and creativity and strengthens our research and teaching excellence. In keeping with its Statement on Building an Inclusive Community with a Shared Purpose, McMaster University strives to embody the values of respect, collaboration and diversity, and has a strong commitment to employment equity.

The University seeks qualified candidates who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially welcomes applications from indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

Job applicants requiring accommodation to participate in the hiring process should contact:

• Human Resources Service Centre at 905-525-9140 ext. 222-HR (22247), or
• Faculty of Health Sciences HR Office at ext. 22207, or
• School of Graduate Studies at ext. 23679

to communicate accommodation needs.

To ensure an ongoing and vibrant University community that meets the needs of our students, staff and faculty and supports the University mission, ability to work on-site continues to be a requirement for most University positions. The University is supportive of exploring flexible work arrangements that effectively balance operational needs and employee interests.