Director, Public Affairs

The Director, Public Affairs leads the development and implementation of CAHO’s work to influence policies and government decisions that affect Ontario’s academic hospitals. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director, Public Affairs works closely with the Director of Policy and with senior staff from member hospitals on a wide-range of important policy initiatives.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a sophisticated government relations professional with a track record of success in policy advocacy and promoting member interests with governments and other stakeholders. She/he is a government/political expert who is well versed in the workings of the political decision-making process and skilled at building credible relationships with elected officials and political and bureaucratic staff. An appreciation and understanding of the complexities of Ontario’s health care system is critical, and experience working in a member-based organization is preferred.

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversees and advances CAHO’s broad advocacy efforts and influence policies.
  • Maintains positive CAHO relationships with the Ontario government, and develops targeted relationships with other stakeholders including federal and municipal governments.
  • Keeps abreast of the policy and political environment affecting research hospitals, advising CAHO’s Executive Director and Council on opportunities.
  • Develops and executes outreach programs, campaigns and events for government and stakeholders - including elected officials, public servants, political staff, and other stakeholders.
  • Manages the development and delivery of external messaging and supporting communications materials such as submissions, newsletters, presentations, briefing notes, correspondence and speeches.
  • Oversees CAHO’s “Healthier, Wealthier, Smarter” public relations campaign.
  • Manages a small public affairs team.

Qualifications

  • Minimum of 8 years of progressive public affairs experience and a minimum of 5 years of management experience.
  • Strong strategic thinking skills.
  • Extensive knowledge of the Ontario government political and bureaucratic systems.
  • Strong experience in policy development, relationship building, communications and messaging.
  • Excellent judgment and the ability to identify priorities and emerging issues.
  • Experience presenting complex issues/opportunities to high-level officials and third-party partners.
  • Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing strategic communications’ plans and stakeholder engagement strategies.
  • Effective team player with excellent interpersonal skills and relevant post-secondary degree.

This is a full time, permanent position.  Interested candidates should submit their résumé and cover letter, stating salary expectations, to jobs@brownconsulting.ca by February 28, 2018.  No phone calls or agency solicitation please.  Please specify Director, Public Affairs in the subject line. We thank all candidates who apply, however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.