Vice-President, Government & Industry Relations

Canadian Canola Growers Association; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Canadian Canola Growers Association is seeking a Vice-President of Government & Industry Relations to lead their advocacy efforts. This role involves strategic planning, relationship management, and collaboration with senior leadership to influence policy impacting Canadian canola farmers. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in government relations and a strong understanding of the agricultural landscape.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of progressive experience in government, public affairs, or industry relations.
• Minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership or executive role.
• Proven track record in influencing policy and legislation.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and execution of government relations and advocacy strategies.
• Build and maintain relationships with policymakers and government agencies.
• Oversee the Ottawa office and manage the government relations team.

Skills

Strategic Planning

Government Relations

Public Affairs

Leadership

Relationship Management

Education

Post-secondary education in agriculture, economics, law, political science, or related field

Graduate degree (considered an asset)

Job description

Monday, May 19 – CCGA's offices will be closed.

Vice-President, Government & Industry Relations

CCGA’s passionate team of advocacy professionals helps bring the perspectives of Canada’s 40,000 canola farmers to national policy conversations impacting their livelihood.

What you’ll be doing :

As the Vice-President leading CCGA’s Ottawa-based Government and Industry Relations team, and reporting to the President & CEO, the successful candidate will :

• lead the development and execution of government relations and advocacy strategies aligned with CCGA’s strategic goals.
• bring a strong understanding of political environment and build and maintain trusted relationships with federal, provincial, and international policymakers and government agencies.
• represent CCGA as a credible and influential voice in high-level policy discussions, consultations, and regulatory initiatives that impact Canadian canola farmers.
• collaborate with the President & CEO, senior leadership, and Board to inform, align, and advance policy and advocacy priorities.
• oversee the Ottawa office and manage the government relations team, fostering a high-performance and collaborative culture.
• contribute to organizational strategy and culture as a member of the executive leadership team, helping guide long-term vision and execution.

Your experience :

• hold a post-secondary education in agriculture, economics, law, political science, or a related field; a graduate degree is considered an asset.
• bring at least 15 years of progressive experience in government, public affairs, or industry relations, including minimum of five (5) years in a senior leadership or executive role.
• demonstrate a proven track record in influencing policy and legislation, with strong strategic planning and execution capabilities.
• understand public policy, political processes, and regulatory environments at federal and international levels.
• build and manage high impact relationships with government officials, agencies, and industry stakeholders.
• lead, mentor, and inspire a diverse team with strong leadership skills.
• possess knowledge of the agriculture industry, a valuable asset for the role.
• travel domestically and internationally as needed; proficiency in French is considered an asset.

Why work at CCGA?

Step into a leadership role where purpose and impact for Canadian agriculture go hand in hand. Strategic thinking, collaboration, and accountability are central to the work, and while the pace is fast and the expectations are high, you’ll be part of a team that values trust, integrity, and clear communication. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to shape strategy, mentor others, and make meaningful contributions for farmers, while being part of a culture that recognizes the importance of well-being and balance. Grow, connect, and find fulfillment by impacting the future of Canada’s agriculture policy landscape.

Submit your resume and cover letter by May 19, 2025. We thank all applicants, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. If you require accommodation during the recruitment and selection process, please let us know.

Canadian Canola Growers Association (CCGA) is a champion for Canadian canola farmers – advocating for them, shaping policies that impact their farm businesses, and delivering services that address the opportunities or challenges that they face.

We carry an unwavering respect for the agriculture industry and the remarkable people who live it every day. This commitment, backed by decades of experience, enables us to enact positive change and help farmers unlock their growth potential.

We are the largest administrator of the Advance Payments Program, offering this financial program to 10,000 farmers in Western Canada each year.

Recognized as one of Manitoba’s Top Employers (2024) and Kincentric Best Employer in Canada (2024).