Manager, Government Relations

McGill University; Eeyou Istchee James Bay; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 136,000; Full time

Job summary

An esteemed Canadian university is seeking a Government Relations professional to forge partnerships with the Canadian government and advance strategic initiatives. This role involves monitoring legislation, advising senior leadership, and managing advocacy efforts. Ideal candidates have a relevant degree and 5-7 years of experience in government relations. Bilingual proficiency in French and English is essential. A competitive salary and benefits package is offered, including a robust pension plan and remote work options.

Benefits

Competitive benefits package

Defined contribution pension plan

RRSP and TFSA options

Competitive vacation policy

Personal days and floating holidays

Paid time off during December

Tuition waiver for employees and dependents

Remote work opportunities

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in government relations, public policy, or relevant roles.
• Experience with federal government institutions is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of public policy and government structures.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic relations plan with the federal government.
• Monitor federal government policies affecting higher education.
• Cultivate relationships with federal government officials and agencies.
• Provide strategic advice to senior leadership on potential impacts.
• Develop targeted advocacy campaigns addressing McGill’s interests.

Skills

Government relations

Public policy

Bilingual proficiency in French and English

Networking

Education

Bachelor's Degree in political science, public policy, or law

Master’s degree

Job description

How to Apply for a Job (for External Candidates) - Please refer to the job aid for instructions on how to apply.

If you are an active McGill employee (i.e., currently in an active contract or position at McGill University), do not apply through this Career Site. Login to your McGill Workday account and apply to this posting using the Find Jobs report (type Find Jobs in the search bar).

Position Summary

Reporting to the Associate Director, Government & Institutional Relations, you will play a key role in developing and nurturing strong partnerships with the Government of Canada and other key stakeholders to advance McGill University’s academic mission and strategic priorities. Your responsibilities will include fostering productive relationships with federal government officials, members of Parliament, and civil servants. In promoting the University’s strategic plans and initiatives, you will work closely with colleagues in the offices of the President, Provost, and Vice-Presidents to shape advocacy strategies at the federal level. Additionally, you will provide strategic advice and tactical support to McGill’s senior leadership on government relations and federal advocacy efforts. Building alliances with other universities and stakeholders will also be a focus, helping to further priority advocacy initiatives. You will guide and support members of the McGill community in their outreach to federal government representatives.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic government relations plan focused on advancing McGill University’s interests at the federal level, including research funding, public policy development, and regulatory matters.
• Monitor and analyze federal government policies, legislative developments, and political trends that affect higher education and research. Provide strategic advice to senior leadership on potential impacts and opportunities for the university.
• Cultivate and maintain productive relationships with federal government officials, including members of Parliament, government agencies, ministers, and relevant staff. Serve as a primary point of contact for government stakeholders on federal matters.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders, including the President's Office and faculty leaders, to identify federal funding opportunities and align McGill’s strategic priorities with government policy and funding programs.
• Develop targeted advocacy campaigns to communicate McGill’s priorities to government audiences. Draft briefings, policy submissions, and correspondence to key government officials and coordinate meetings with federal representatives.
• Organize and coordinate government-related events, such as meetings, roundtables, and campus visits by federal representatives. Represent McGill at relevant external events, conferences, and government consultations.
• Provide regular updates to the Associate Director, Government & Institutional Relations, on government relations activities, policy developments, and advocacy efforts. Prepare reports, briefings, and presentations for senior management.

Other Qualifying Skills and/or Abilities

• A university degree in political science, public policy, law, or a related field. A master’s degree is considered an asset.
• At least 5-7 years of experience in government relations, public policy, or a related role, preferably with a focus on federal government engagement. Experience working in or with federal government institutions is highly desirable.
• Bilingual; must possess a high level of proficiency in spoken and written French / English.
• Established and effective network of contacts in government.
• Sound knowledge of public policy and government structures, both political and administrative.

As one of Montreal's Top Employers, here is what we offer

• Competitive benefits package (Health, Dental, Life Insurance) (if eligible)
• Defined contribution pension plan (with employer contribution up to 10%) (if eligible)
• Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)
• Competitive vacation policy
• Two (2) personal days
• Two (2) floating holidays
• Nine (9) "Summer Fridays" - paid days off between the St-Jean Baptiste holiday and Labour Day
• Paid time off over the December holiday period
• Tuition waiver for regular employees and their dependents
• Up to two (2) days of remote work per week where the position permits

Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.

Knowledge of English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level #4 on a scale of 0-4.

For a definition of our language proficiency levels, please click here.

Minimum Education and Experience

Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree 5 Years Related Experience /

Annual Salary:

(MPEX Grade 07) $90,170.00 - $112,710.00 - $135,250.00

Job Profile:

MPEX-COM3F - Government Relations - Senior Professional/Manager

Hours per Week:

33.75 (Full time)

Supervisor:

Associate Director, Government and Institutional Relations

Position End Date (If applicable):

Deadline to Apply:

2026-02-15

McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, [e-mail].