Policy and Strategy Advisor

**UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA STUDENTS’ UNION**

University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU) is a non-profit organization which advocates on behalf of its memberships’ best interests to internal and external stakeholders. Our primary objectives are to serve students and strive to enhance student life and the quality of education through consultation, representation and advocacy.

**Policy & Strategy Advisor**

Reporting to the President of UMSU and working closely with the Vice President External Affairs and Vice President University Affairs, the fulltime permanent Policy & Strategy Advisor will be responsible for producing research to inform and advance campaigns, advocacy activities and policy development, for both internal and external matter to the Executive team.

The incumbent should have a thorough understanding of the purposes and functions of a university students’ union, and a good knowledge of governance procedures, government relations, federal, provincial and municipal politics, and a well-rounded understanding of public policy (fiscal, economic, educational and health care). In addition, the incumbent is responsible to stay appraised of developments in post-secondary education, the University of Manitoba, and general issues affecting UMSU members and their external stakeholders - this includes analysis of federal, provincial and university budgets.

This role necessitates someone who can quickly formulate feasible strategies, execute complex campaigns efficiently and tactfully, and holistically evaluate political action to consider potential fallout and create contingency plans. Given the nature of advocacy, social media engagement knowledge and/or visual presentation knowledge is an asset but not a requirement.

This position is schedule to be a Monday - Friday 8:30am-4:30pm position, however overtime may be needed.

**Responsibilities**
- Create and assist in executing strategic plans to advance UMSU priorities to government and administration
- Undertake research and analysis at the request of the UMSU Executive and the **Board of Directors;**:

- Assist in the development of campaign materials and position statements;
- Prepare briefing packages for UMSU Executives engaging in government lobbying and advocacy including supporting UMSU’s endeavours in their capacity of external lobbying organizations; under the direction of the Executives;
- Publications via social media or other avenues that detail the activities of UMSU and initiatives taken by the organization; such as press releases
- Provide supporting material for and/or draft UMSU grant proposals for submission to the University administration, municipal, provincial and federal government programs;
- Comfortable communicating with a wide variety of people internal and external to the organization using a wide variety of communication channels;
- Author articles and position statements for UMSU Executives to be shared with the community and membership
- Able to navigate and manage challenging, and high-pressure situations in an effective manner

**Education & Experience**
- Graduate degree in political sciences or other relevant degree is a definite asset.
- Applicants should identify strong experience in researching and policy writing.
- Knowledge of public policy and government relations, politics and structures (Municipal, Provincial and Federal)
- Combination of equivalent education and work experience would be considered.
- Previously held position in communications role (an asset)
- Previous experience with working at municipal, provincial or federal government (an asset)
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills

The wage range for this position is **$50,000 - $65,000** and is based on an individual’s education, knowledge and experience. Applicants must be eligible to work in Canada. We wish to thank all applicants in advance for their interest; however, only those applicants considered will be contacted for an interview. Please provide a _**cover letter, resume, and three (3) professional references**_ and identify how you meet the desired qualifications listed. Posting will remain open until filled:
The Human Resource Department,

101 UMSU University Centre,

Winnipeg, Manitoba,

R3T 2N2, or

Pay: $50,000.00-$65,000.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Company pension
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- On-site gym
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Vision care
- Work from home

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday
- Overtime

Work Location: In person