Associate Vice President, Government & Community Relations - University Relations

MacEwan University; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Edmonton is seeking an experienced Associate Vice President (AVP), Government and Community Relations. The AVP will lead engagement with government and community partners, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities. Ideal candidates will possess a degree in political science or related fields, with 8-10 years of relevant experience in advocacy and community relations. Skills in strategic thinking and relationship building are essential. Apply via [e-mail].

Qualifications

• 8 to 10 years of progressive leadership experience in government relations or public affairs.
• Deep knowledge of Alberta’s political and policy environment.
• Ability to work in fast-paced, high-output environments with political complexity.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive government relations strategy.
• Build and maintain relationships with all orders of government.
• Lead advocacy initiatives to secure institutional funding.

Skills

Strategic Thinking

Political Acumen

Relationship Building

Communication Excellence

Negotiation Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in political science, public administration, communications, business or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

Overview

MacEwan University is seeking an experienced, strategic, and highly engaged leader to serve as the Associate Vice President (AVP), Government and Community Relations. Reporting to the Vice-President, University Relations, the AVP will lead the university’s engagement with all orders of government, as well as key community partners. This position supports the achievement of MacEwan’s strategic plan, Teaching Greatness. It reflects the university’s commitment to enhancing its voice in the post-secondary business and community sectors while reinforcing its identity as a key downtown pillar. The AVP will serve as a trusted advisor and visible ambassador, advancing MacEwan’s priorities through non-partisan advocacy and community activation.

The AVP will frame and steward MacEwan’s relationships with elected officials, policy makers, business leaders, and community leaders while ensuring the university is integrated into Edmonton’s civic and cultural fabric. Through proactive advocacy, collaboration, and partnership-building, the AVP will help MacEwan achieve its strategic goals, broaden fundraising momentum, and enhance its presence in Edmonton’s downtown core.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive government relations strategy aligned with MacEwan’s strategic plan, Teaching Greatness.
• Build and maintain relationships with all orders of government, ensuring MacEwan’s objectives align with government priorities.
• Represent MacEwan in government consultations, sector meetings, and external committees.
• Engage internally to build capacity and collaboration in positioning MacEwan externally with government and relevant agencies, boards, and commissions.
• Lead advocacy initiatives to secure institutional funding, policy support, and program approvals.
• Proactively identify public policy issues and opportunities for MacEwan; advise the Vice-President on emerging opportunities and risks.
• Cultivate strong relationships with community organizations, business leaders, Indigenous communities, and non-profit partners to strengthen MacEwan’s role as a thought leader and cultural hub in Edmonton.
• Strengthen MacEwan’s presence beyond the campus by fostering meaningful connections in the broader community and inviting community engagement with the university.
• Champion initiatives that elevate MacEwan’s visibility and influence in shaping public policy and community development, in alignment with the university’s strategic vision.
• Collaborate with Communications and Marketing to ensure consistent, strategic messaging on public policy issues and institutional priorities.
• Anticipate, assess, and advise on political, public, and community issues that may impact the university’s reputation or operations; identify risks and opportunities for MacEwan to contribute to community development and civil discourse.
• Promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in all government and community engagement activities, ensuring partnerships reflect the diversity of the communities served.
• Explore and implement innovative government and community engagement approaches, such as digital platforms, data-informed advocacy, and collaborative policy development.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in political science, public administration, communications, business, or related field; a master’s degree is preferred.
• Experience: 8 to 10 years of progressive leadership experience in government relations, public affairs, policy, or related field. Experience in public sector, post-secondary, or large non-profit environment is an asset. Deep knowledge of Alberta’s political and policy environment and familiarity with Canada’s post-secondary sector. Demonstrated experience in strategic advocacy, policy development, and navigating complex regulatory environments. Ability to work in fast-paced, high-output environments with political complexity. Demonstrated discretion and strategic insight in handling sensitive issues. Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills; ability to represent the institution across diverse audiences. Familiarity with lobbying legislation, compliance frameworks, and institutional governance.
• Competencies and Attributes: Strategic Thinking & Political Acumen; Relationship Builder; High Energy & Adaptive; Community Orientation; Communication Excellence; Equity, Diversity & Inclusion.

How To Apply

If this opportunity excites you, please send an application package including your resume and cover letter to [e-mail] with the position title and organization name in the subject line of your email.