Director, Government Relations - University Relations

Competition Number: 26.06.143

Category: Full-Time Continuing (35 hours per week)

Salary: $106,018 to $143,323 per annum

Closing Date: August 10, 2026

MacEwan University is seeking a Director, Government Relations for a full‑time continuing opportunity with the University Relations department. In this role you will lead the development, implementation and continuous improvement of MacEwan University’s government relations function, reporting to the AVP, Government and Community Relations. You will develop and advance institutional government relations strategies, foster productive relationships with government and key stakeholders, coordinate engagement across the university, and provide strategic advice and analysis to support institutional priorities and advocacy objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the AVP in developing and continuously improving the university’s government relations strategy and lead the execution of initiatives aligned with strategic priorities.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive understanding of the university’s strategic priorities, government priorities, public policy direction, legislation, funding frameworks and the broader political environment to identify risks and opportunities.
• Provide expert advice and strategic recommendations to the AVP and senior leaders regarding government priorities, emerging issues and funding opportunities affecting the university.
• Coordinate cross‑university assessment of legislation, policy initiatives, funding programs and consultation opportunities, developing evidence‑informed institutional positions, recommendations and response strategies.
• Identify, assess and prioritize strategic engagement opportunities that advance institutional priorities and align with government priorities, policy objectives and funding opportunities.
• Advise on stakeholder mapping, relationship development, engagement sequencing and representation strategies to maximize effectiveness of government interactions.
• Support cultivation and stewardship of relationships with elected officials, ministers’ offices, senior public servants, government agencies, municipal leaders and post‑secondary sector organizations.
• Lead environmental scanning, analysis and interpretation of government legislation, policy, funding, regulatory developments and emerging issues affecting higher education.
• Oversee preparation of policy analyses, stakeholder assessments, environmental scans, briefing notes, issue summaries and other decision‑support materials.
• Work closely with Communications and Marketing and other University Relations teams to ensure consistent messaging and coordinated approaches to government communications and advocacy initiatives.
• Support the AVP in planning and monitoring the government relations budget and ensure activities are delivered within financial parameters.
• Manage staff resources through effective recruitment and staff development.
• Understand, support, communicate, and implement Occupational Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) policies, procedures and initiatives.

Skills

• Lead by example, demonstrate integrity, flexibility, tact and perseverance, while maintaining confidentiality and navigating sensitive situations.
• Strategic thinking, creativity, analytical, problem‑solving and decision‑making skills with keen attention to detail.
• Interpret and apply institutional priorities within a government engagement context.
• Knowledge of community, social and political environments relevant to the university, with awareness of emerging trends and stakeholder dynamics.
• Gather, analyze and synthesize information, preparing briefings, reports and recommendations for leadership.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, tailoring messaging to diverse audiences.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship management skills, building trust, collaboration and influence across diverse stakeholders.
• Work independently or within a team‑oriented collaborative environment.
• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills, managing multiple projects, adapting to shifting priorities and delivering commitments.
• Knowledge of change management and process management techniques.

Qualifications

• A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible experience in intergovernmental relations, public policy or a related field, including leadership or supervisory experience.
• Experience building and managing relationships with government organizations, partners and stakeholders.
• Experience working within a complex, multi‑stakeholder environment.
• Established governmental networks within Edmonton and/or Alberta are an asset.
• Experience in a post‑secondary institution is an asset.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Position Requirements

• This position is on‑campus only.

Benefits

• Competitive base pay
• Generous vacation time
• Secure pension plan
• Flexible benefits package
• Continuous learning culture
• Opportunities for career growth

How to Apply

To apply, visit the MacEwan University Opportunities Page, select the job opportunity and click Apply Now. If you require assistance, contact careers@macewan.ca. If technical difficulties occur, try a different browser and, if the problem persists, send a screenshot of the error to careers@macewan.ca.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

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