Officer, Government Relations and Advocacy
About the position
Food Banks Canada is a national organization dedicated to supporting and enhancing the work of over 5,500 food banks and community organizations across Canada. We invest in, advocate for, and bolster their critical efforts. Through research, we investigate the root causes of food insecurity and develop actionable solutions to create a Canada where no one goes hungry. In 2024, Food Banks Canada was recognized as one of Canada’s Most Admired™ Corporate Cultures. We are expanding our efforts and impact, seeking passionate, teamwork-driven professionals for meaningful and captivating careers. Bilingualism (English/French) is an asset for all roles. Reporting to the Vice President, Advocacy and Research, the Officer, Government Relations and Advocacy supports the planning and execution of government relations strategies, advocacy campaigns, stakeholder engagement activities, and network advocacy initiatives. This role collaborates with the food bank network and external stakeholders to advance Food Banks Canada’s government relations and advocacy initiatives. The Officer works with elected officials, political staff, public servants, provincial associations, the food bank network, and sector partners to advance long-term solutions that reduce poverty and food insecurity in Canada.
Responsibilities
- Support the planning and execution of Food Banks Canada’s government relations and advocacy strategies
- Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, political staff, public servants across all levels of government, and external stakeholders
- Monitor federal, provincial, territorial, municipal, and Indigenous government activities relevant to Food Banks Canada’s priorities
- Track legislation, parliamentary activity, government consultations, budgets, and policy announcements
- Support the VP, Advocacy & Research with the planning and execution of advocacy campaigns that raise awareness of food insecurity and poverty and advance policy change
- Coordinate meetings and engagement opportunities with elected officials, political staff, and government representatives
- Support the VP, Advocacy & Research with the planning and execution of advocacy events, network engagement activities, and Days of Action
- Support the VP, Advocacy & Research with the development of advocacy training, resources, and tools for food banks and provincial associations
- Monitor and report on advocacy training, resources, and tools for food banks and provincial associations
- Support compliance with all applicable lobbying and reporting requirements
- Other duties as assigned
Requirements
- Completion of an undergraduate degree or equivalent, preferably in political science, public administration, communications, or a related field
- Minimum 4 years’ relevant experience in government relations, advocacy, politics, public affairs, stakeholder relations, or public policy
- Experience working with government stakeholders or elected officials
- Experience working in federal Canadian politics with a strong understanding of Canadian government and political systems
- Knowledge of parliamentary processes, government decision-making, and public policy development
- Eligible to be registered as a federal lobbyist
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy including strong proofreading skills
Nice-to-haves
- Experience working in an association or non-profit environment is considered an asset
- Bilingualism (English/French) is an asset
Benefits
- Additional information on this role can be found in the full job description and benefits information in the FBC brochure.
