Job ID #32138: Senior Project Lead, Trade & Tariff Response

Contribute to the City of Hamilton, one of Canada’s largest cities - home to a diverse and strong economy, an active and inclusive community, a robust cultural and dining scene, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from the downtown core, and so much more. Join our diverse team of talented and ambitious staff who embody our values of sensational service, courageous change, steadfast integrity, collective ownership and being engaged empowered employees. Help us achieve our vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully. #BeTheReason

• Job ID #32138: Senior Project Lead, Trade & Tariff Response
• Union: Non-Union
• Job Description ID #: 7898
• Close date: Interested applicants please submit your application online at www.hamilton.ca/city-council/jobs-cityby 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday August 12, 2026.
• Duration: Up to 24 months
• Vacancy type: This posting is for an existing vacancy
• Internal applicants should apply with your work e-mail address. External applicants are considered only after the internal posting process has been completed. Only applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted.
  

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

The Senior Project Lead - Trade & Tariff Response exists to protect and grow Hamilton’s business base by delivering a focused aftercare program that identifies tariff impacts, strengthens local supply chains, and opens new export opportunities.

Reporting to the Senior Business Development Consultant — Investment & Trade, this position will translate business intelligence into targeted municipal supports, partner programs, and public data products that will also inform Hamilton’s 2026–2030 Economic Development Action Plan. The position combines direct business engagement, supply‑chain analysis, partner coordination, and public reporting to mitigate tariff‑related risk, retain jobs, and expand market access for Hamilton companies.

GENERAL DUTIES

Coordinate a local Tariff Response Task Force (multi‑partner: the Chambers of Commerce, Hamilton Oshawa Port Authority, Vantage Group, Next Generation Manufacturing and other relevant community partners) that will serve as an advisory body and support to this project.

Design and implement a tariff‑focused aftercare program for companies affected by tariffs, including outreach, intake, triage, and escalation pathways with municipal and government partners.

Conduct business engagements with Hamilton businesses (delivered via site visits, interviews, surveys, group sessions) working either individually or in collaboration with Economic Development staff and/or Tariff Response Task Force members to document tariff impacts, review supply chains, measure purchasing patterns, identify vulnerabilities and export challenges, and recommend near-shore alternatives.

Procure new data sets from Statistics Canada and other data providers that will lead to the production of public‑facing sectoral/commodity reports and quarterly small‑business market condition reports focused on Hamilton micro‑businesses.

Collaborate with Economic Development’s Research and Marketing as well as the City of Hamilton’s Corporate Communications team to promote the visibility of this project with the local media.

Collaborate with the City of Hamilton’s information and technology team to transform the raw data procured on this project into an open‑data asset for the City of Hamilton’s business community.

Facilitate annual public engagement sessions with partners and stakeholders to provide a clear line of sight on this project and its outputs.

Work with government partners to co‑design and implement export‑focused programs, events and funding applications.

Deliver program performance reporting and continuous improvement recommendations.

Leverage trade and government data to identify high-potential international markets and develop export and partnership opportunities that support the growth and global expansion of Hamilton businesses.

Maintain clear, timely reporting to the Sr. Business Development Consultant and partners.

Works with government partners to develop & implement an Export focused program for local industry.

Ensure all activities comply with Health & Safety legislation and City policies.

Perform other duties assigned which are directly related to the major responsibilities of the job.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Post‑secondary degree or diploma in economics, international trade, business, public policy, supply‑chain management, or a closely related field.
2. Progressively responsible experience in economic development, trade facilitation, business retention & expansion (BRE), supply‑chain analysis, or a related role. Experience delivering business outreach and producing public reports is essential.
3. Project management experience is considered an asset, particularly in coordinating multi‑stakeholder initiatives, managing timelines, and ensuring deliverables are met.
4. Demonstrated experience with TradeNet and Statistics Canada data; proficiency with data analysis and visualization tools (i.e.. Excel and database software applications).
5. Proven ability to engage private‑sector firms, industry associations, and government partners.
6. Understands municipal economic strategy, BRE best practices, trade policy impacts, federal and provincial policies, certifications, and priorities, with knowledge of key international markets and sectors
7. Demonstrated ability to analyze quantitative data, including trade and customs data, and translate it into compelling narratives suitable for business audiences, senior government officials, and members of the public.
8. Skilled at building trust with small businesses, industry groups, and government partners.
9. Possesses superior communications skills and demonstrates the ability to write for diverse audiences on tight deadlines.
10. Works effectively across departments and with external partners to mobilize resources.
11. Capable of working independently as well as part of an interdisciplinary team.

THIS POSITION REQUIRES A VALID CLASS “G” DRIVER’S LICENCE AND PROOF THEREOF IS REQUIRED AFTER HIRE.

SALARY: Salary Grade 6

HOURS: 35 hours per week.

THE INCUMBENT SHALL COMPLY WITH ALL HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICIES AND PRACTICES FOR THIS POSITION AND THE WORKPLACE.

Disclaimer:

Be advised that Human Resources frequently audits resumes of internal/external applicants to ensure/validate information provided is consistent and trustworthy. Falsification of information provided at any time throughout the recruitment process may be grounds for disqualification, and for internal applicants, subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Terms:

The City is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. Consistent with our Values and Corporate Culture Pillars, the City of Hamilton is committed to providing equitable treatment to all with respect to barrier-free employment and accommodation without discrimination. The City will provide accommodation for applicants in all aspects of the hiring process, up to the point of undue hardship. If you have an accommodation need, please contact Human Resources as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements.