Director of Government Relations and Policy

Alberta Grains; Calgary; On-site; CAD 125,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus up to 5%

RRSP matching

Benefits: health, dental, life

Paid vacation

Job summary

Alberta Grains in Calgary, Alberta, is seeking a Director of Government Relations and Policy to lead advocacy and public policy for Alberta wheat and barley producers. Reporting to the Executive Director, you will shape strategies, manage a team, and engage with government, industry, and producer representatives to influence decisions that affect Canada's agricultural future.

The role requires 7–10 years in government relations or policy, a related degree, and strong leadership and communication

Qualifications

• 7–10 years in government relations or public policy.
• Degree in public policy, political science, economics, agriculture, business, or related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of provincial and federal processes, legislation, and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience in the agricultural sector and established gov/industry networks.

Responsibilities

• Lead provincial and federal government relations strategies.
• Develop evidence-based policy positions and submissions.
• Manage team, budgets, and liaison with Boards and committees.
• Represent Alberta Grains in consultations and industry forums.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Relationship building

Communication

Policy analysis

Leadership

Education

Public policy degree

Job description

Shape Policy. Influence Change. Champion Alberta Farmers.

Are you a strategic leader who knows how to turn complex policy challenges into meaningful results? Do you thrive on building influential relationships, navigating government processes, and advocating for issues that matter?

Alberta Grains is looking for a Director of Government Relations and Policy to lead our advocacy and policy efforts and help shape the future of Alberta's wheat and barley industry.

This is an opportunity to make a real impact — working with government, industry leaders, and producer representatives to influence decisions that affect Alberta farmers and the long‑term competitiveness of Canadian agriculture.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Executive Director, you will lead Alberta Grains' government relations, advocacy, and public policy functions. As a key member of the leadership team, you will develop strategies, influence policy discussions, and ensure the voices and interests of Alberta wheat and barley farmers are represented where important decisions are made.

You’ll also lead a talented team, work closely with the Board and committees, and help position Alberta Grains as a trusted and influential voice in agricultural policy.

What You’ll Be Doing

Lead Advocacy and Government Relations

• Develop and execute provincial and federal government relations and advocacy strategies.
• Build strong, credible relationships with elected officials, government representatives, regulators, and industry partners.
• Represent Alberta Grains in government consultations, industry forums, working groups, and strategic partnerships.
• Identify emerging issues and opportunities to influence policies that affect Alberta producers.

Drive Policy Strategy and Influence

• Monitor and evaluate legislative, regulatory, and policy developments affecting the agriculture sector.
• Lead the development of evidence‑based policy positions and recommendations.
• Translate complex issues into clear, practical strategies for the Executive Director, Board, and Policy Committee.
• Oversee policy research, government submissions, briefing materials, and strategic communications.

Provide Leadership and Strategic Direction

• Lead, coach, and support the government relations, policy, and markets team.
• Work closely with the Board, Policy Committee, and other stakeholders to advance organizational priorities.
• Provide strategic advice and subject matter expertise on government, industry, and public policy matters.
• Oversee departmental priorities, projects, and budgets to deliver meaningful results.

What You’ll Bring

We’re looking for a confident, collaborative leader who combines political insight, strategic thinking, and exceptional relationship‑building skills.

Ideally, you’ll bring:

• 7–10 years of progressively responsible experience in government relations, public policy, advocacy, agriculture, or a related field.
• A degree in public policy, political science, economics, agriculture, business, or a related discipline. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
• Strong knowledge of provincial and federal government processes, legislation, and regulatory frameworks.

• Experience in the agricultural sector and an established network of relevant government and industry relationships would be valuable assets.

• Demonstrated success developing advocacy strategies, influencing policy, and building productive stakeholder relationships.
• Experience leading teams, managing budgets, and working with Boards and committees.
• Excellent communication, analytical, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Sound judgment, political awareness, and the ability to navigate complex and sensitive issues.

Why Join Alberta Grains?

At Alberta Grains, your work will have a purpose beyond the office. You’ll be part of an organization dedicated to advancing the interests of Alberta wheat and barley farmers and strengthening the future of agriculture.

We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:

• Competitive salary: $125,000 to $175,000 based on experience
• Annual performance bonus: Eligible for up to 5%.
• Comprehensive group benefits: Health, dental, life insurance, critical illness, disability coverage, and employee assistance support.
• Employer‑paid benefits: 100% employer‑paid premiums, except long‑term disability.
• RRSP matching: Employer matching of up to 5% following three months of employment.
• Generous vacation: Three weeks to start, increasing to four weeks after five years of service and five weeks after 10 years.
• Six paid personal days annually.
• Opportunities to collaborate with influential government and industry leaders while making a meaningful difference for Alberta farmers.

This is a full‑time position (40 hours per week), with some evening and weekend commitments and travel required for meetings and events.

Alberta Grains appreciates the interest of all applicants. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.