Director of Policy

Assembly of First Nations; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established advocacy organization is seeking a Director of Policy to lead the development and implementation of policies that align with strategic priorities. This pivotal role involves collaborating with senior directors and key stakeholders to elevate the organization's influence on First Nations issues nationally. The successful candidate will have a strong background in policy development, government relations, and advocacy, along with exceptional communication skills. Join a passionate team dedicated to advancing First Nations rights and interests while enjoying a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Pension plan

Employer-paid health and dental coverage

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• 7-10 years of experience in policy development or government relations.
• Proven experience with First Nations governments or Indigenous advocacy groups.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of AFN policy positions on legal, social, and political issues.
• Build and maintain relationships with government officials to promote AFN’s policy positions.

Skills

Policy Development

Strategic Planning

Government Relations

Communication Skills

Team Management

Political Acumen

Organizational Skills

Education

Post-secondary education in Political Science

Master’s degree (asset)

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Project Management Tools

Communication Platforms

Job description

Accommodation Statement

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is dedicated to an inclusive selection process and work environment. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the Human Resources representative when you are invited to meetregarding this employment opportunity.

Diversity Statement

Qualified persons of First Nations Ancestry will be given preference in accordance with s.16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act.

About the AFN

The AFN is an advocacy organization that takes direction and fulfills mandates as directed by First Nations in-Assembly through resolutions. As a national advocacy organization for First Nations, the AFN seeks to advance First Nations Inherent and Treaty Rights through the development of policy, public education, and where applicable, the co-development of legislation to build First Nations capacity.

The AFN was created out of a desire among First Nations leadership for a strong and effective collective advocacy organization. From this, values such as respect for human rights, diversity, justice, and the sovereignty of each rights-holding First Nation guide the work of the organization.

Position Overview

The Director of Policy will oversee the development, analysis, and implementation of policies that align with the strategic priorities of the AFN Secretariat. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Director of Policy will be responsible for leading policy initiatives that support AFN’s advocacy efforts and broader goals. This role involves working closely with senior directors, policy sectors, the National Chief’s Office (NCO)
and key collaborators to elevate AFN’s influence on First Nations issues at the national level.

Key Responsibilities

• Policy Development & Strategic Planning: Lead the development of AFN policy positions on legal, social, and political issues impacting First Nations. Work with internal and external collaborators to ensure policies reflect the needs of First Nations communities.

• Advocacy & Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials and key collaborators to promote AFN’s policy positions. Represent the CEO in meetings with government ministers and key partners.

• Liaison with NCO: Serve as a primary liaison between the CEO and the NCO, ensuring alignment of policy initiatives, effective communication, and integration of the National Chief's priorities into AFN policy development.

• Leadership & Team Management: Provide direction and leadership to the AFN policy team. Mentor and supervise policy staff, ensuring professional development and alignment with AFN’s strategic goals.

• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Work with other sectors within the AFN Secretariat to ensure coordinated policy initiatives. Contribute policy insights to strategic planning sessions and long-term goal setting.

• Public Affairs & Media Relations: Collaborate with the Communications team to manage public relations and media strategies related to policy issues. Lead the coordination of policy-related events and public forums.
• Reports & Presentations: Prepare policy papers, briefing notes, and presentations to support the CEO’s engagement with collaborators.

Requirements

• Post-secondary education in Political Science, Public Administration, Indigenous Studies, or a related field. A Master’s degree is an asset.

• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in policy development, strategic planning, or government relations, preferably within Indigenous advocacy or public policy.

• Proven experience working with First Nations governments, organizations, or Indigenous advocacy groups.

• Strong communication skills, with experience in drafting policy documents, speeches, and reports.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage teams, providing mentorship and professional growth opportunities.

• Strong political acumen and ability to provide strategic advice to senior leadership.

• Organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, project management tools, and communication platforms.

• Ability to work effectively under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based, with some travel required for meetings, advocacy events, and other policy-related activities.

• Irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the CEO's schedule and AFN’s needs.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer use during research and policy document preparation.

• Ability to manage complex work situations with professionalism, emotional intelligence, and discretion.

• Ability to navigate a politically sensitive environment and maintain confidentiality.

Why Join AFN?

• Opportunity to contribute to meaningful First Nations advocacy and policy development at the national level.

• Collaborative work environment with passionate professionals dedicated to advancing First Nations rights and interests.

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package (including pension, and employer-paid health and dental coverage).

• Opportunities for professional development and career growth within a dynamic organization.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position through the AFN website: https://afn.ca/about-us/work-with-afn/.

This position will remain openuntil filled.