External Affairs Specialist

The Home Depot; Toronto; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as an External Affairs Specialist, where you will engage with government and external stakeholders to shape policies that impact the organization. This role offers a unique opportunity to leverage your expertise in government relations and public affairs, ensuring the company's voice is heard in legislative matters. You'll be part of a collaborative team that values your contributions and provides a platform for professional growth. If you are passionate about making a difference and thrive in a dynamic environment, this position is perfect for you.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Inclusive culture

Qualifications

• 5+ years in government relations or public affairs.
• Bachelor's degree in relevant field, advanced degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop relationships with government officials and agencies.
• Monitor legislative developments and advocate for the company's interests.
• Plan and coordinate events to engage external stakeholders.

Skills

Government Relations

Legislative Analysis

Stakeholder Engagement

Communication Strategies

Issues Management

Event Coordination

Project Management

Policy Development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Political Science

Advanced degree (preferred)

Job description

With a career at The Home Depot, you can be yourself and also be part of something bigger.

Description:

We are seeking an experienced External Affairs Specialist to join our dynamic Legal and Government Relations team. This is an exciting opportunity to work as a strategic partner with the business on a wide spectrum of external affairs matters.

Key Responsibilities:

• Government Relations: Develop and maintain strong relationships with government officials and agencies. Monitor legislative and regulatory developments that may impact Home Depot Canada and advocate for the company's interests.
• Legislative and Policy Analysis: Monitor and report on legislative and regulatory developments relevant to the company's interests. Conduct thorough analysis of proposed policies and regulations, assess their potential impact on Home Depot Canada, and provide strategic recommendations to the Legal and Government Relations team. Partner cross-functionally on developing company responses to legislative, regulatory and policy changes.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with industry associations, community organizations, and other external stakeholders through events, thought leadership and meetings, to forge relationships and promote Home Depot Canada's initiatives and values.
• Communication and Advocacy: Develop and implement outreach and communication strategies to proactively inform, educate and influence external stakeholders on issues that impact the company. Prepare communications materials (e.g. presentations, speeches, white papers, etc.) to effectively convey and advocate the company's positions on key issues. Prepare briefing materials, reports, and other documentation for internal and external use.
• Issues Management and Ongoing Monitoring: Advise on issues and crises management, and partner with cross-functional teams to maintain and protect the company’s brand reputation. Monitor media and provide regular media roundups, summaries and analytics.
• Event Coordination: Plan and coordinate events, meetings, and other activities that facilitate engagement with external stakeholders. Ensure that these events align with Home Depot Canada's strategic objectives and core values and enhance the company's reputation.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Relations/Public Policy, Communications, Law, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in government relations, public affairs, or a related field. Experience in the retail industry is a plus.
• Skills:
  • Strong understanding of the political and regulatory landscape in Canada.
  • Proven business acumen, exceptional communicator at all levels within the organization, ability to build strong relationships and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  • Detail-oriented with ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop strategic recommendations.
  • Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with government officials and external stakeholders.
  • Strong organizational, project management and event planning skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Experience in policy design, development, and implementation.
• Attributes:
  • Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
  • High level of integrity and professionalism.
  • Proactive and innovative with a passion for learning.
  • People person who enjoys making connections and building relationships to increase Home Depot Canada’s visibility and profile and help advance the company’s organizational priorities.

Why Join Us:

Home Depot Canada offers a collaborative and inclusive work environment where your contributions are valued and recognized. As an External Affairs Specialist, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the company's success and growth. We provide competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for professional development.