Director, Government Relations

Director, Government Relations

February 2026

Overview

The Director, Government Relations will coordinate DWDC’s strategic engagement with all levels of government, political parties, and key external stakeholders. Reporting directly to the CEO, the Director is responsible for developing and implementing government relations strategies. They will support targeted advocacy initiatives, monitor legislative developments, and foster productive relationships that advance DWDC’s priorities. The Director will coordinate outreach activities, prepare key communications content, and collaborate across departments to support DWDC’s role as a leader in end-of-life choice and rights in Canada. This position will work closely with the Director, Public Relations and Communications to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with advocacy activities across the organization.

Reports to: CEO

Direct Reports: N/A

Key Deliverables and Responsibilities

• Develop and execute DWDC’s government relations and stakeholder engagement strategies designed to influence government policy and advocacy efforts.
• Prepare policy summaries, briefing notes, advocacy letters, formal submissions, presentations and other materials to advocate to government decision-makers.
• Support the CEO in preparation for government meetings, industry roundtables, community events, and political functions, representing DWDC at meetings as needed.
• Monitor, anticipate and prepare for legislative, regulatory, and policy developments that may impact DWDC and providing analysis and recommendations.
• Conduct environmental scans and stakeholder mapping, while monitoring public opinion and emerging trends to inform engagement strategies and identify opportunities or risks.
• Plan and support internal and external events involving government and key stakeholders, ensuring messaging and ongoing advocacy efforts are aligned, as needed.
• Assist the CEO in building and maintaining productive relationships with elected officials, political staff, government agencies, partners, and other stakeholders.
• Coordinate project-based advocacy campaigns, ensuring timely execution and alignment with broader communication efforts. Maintain records of engagement activities, present regular updates to the CEO, and prepare performance reports to evaluate the effectiveness of government relations initiatives.
• Collaborate across the organization to support new and existing funding initiatives (program funding, proposals, grants, agreements, etc.).

Qualifications, Skills, and Experience:

• Fluency in French and English highly preferred.
• Progressively senior experience in government relations, policy development, public affairs, and/or political settings (e.g., working for an elected official, political party, government agency, or GR consultancy), providing strategic direction and leadership for advocacy efforts.
• Education in political science, public administration, or a related field, including university degree, college diploma, and/or relevant experience. As well as relevant skills or knowledge gained through practical experience and self-directed learning.
• In-depth understanding of the political landscape, legislative processes, policy development, and civil service at the federal level. Experience at provincial level an asset.
• Demonstrated ability in building strategy about complex and multi-faceted issues.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including experience researching, drafting briefing materials, reports, and presentations.
• Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills, with the ability to build and maintain professional relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Ability to work against strict deadlines, while managing multiple files.
• Ability to quickly assimilate information, analyze data and be able to provide strategic advice and guidance.
• Passion for supporting the end-of-life rights of people across Canada, while considering cultural differences and diverse perspectives on end-of-life care.
• High ethical standards, tact and diplomacy are essential.
• Must be confident with public speaking and interacting with officials.
• Comfortable with the topic of death, end-of-life conversations, and supporting a community focused on these topics.
• Experience managing advocacy campaigns or policy projects is a strong asset.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 tools (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Teams).
• Commitment to inclusivity, diversity, equity, and accessibility.