Vice President of Public Affairs

This position requires a sophisticated understanding of how to earn and build reputation through relationships and communication; elevate the brand and protect it by managing reputation risk; and engage in proactive government relations and advocacy to advance the chamber's interests. You will play a crucial role in shaping the narrative around Ontario's business community, driving policy discussions, and positioning the OCC as a leader in public conversations.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- Develop and execute comprehensive communication strategies that align with the OCC's mission and objectives, managing both opportunities and risks associated with public relations.
- Foster strong, ongoing relationships with policymakers across all parties, and industry leaders, advocating for the OCC's positions primarily at the provincial level of government.
- Lead risk management efforts in the realm of public affairs, identifying potential challenges and implementing strategies to mitigate impact on the organization and its members.
- Cultivate the OCC's brand, ensuring that all external communications, campaigns, and advocacy efforts reflect the organization's values and enhance its reputation, particularly with members, partners, and stakeholders.
- Guide and mentor a team, fostering a culture reflective of the OCC's values. ? Oversee the OCC's digital presence, including social media, design, and web content, to engage effectively with members, stakeholders, and the public.
- Provide strategic counsel as a member of the OCC's leadership team, contributing to the organization's leadership, strategy, and culture.

**Qualifications & Experience**:

- At least five years of leadership experience in public affairs, public relations and communications, or a related field, with a proven track record in government relations, brand management, media relations and risk assessment.
- Deep integrity and alignment with the OCC's values.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, industry leaders, and the media.
- Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the capability to anticipate and manage risks affecting organizational reputation and advocacy efforts.
- Exceptional communication abilities, both written and verbal, with expertise in 2 crafting messages that resonate with diverse audiences.
- Leadership experience with the ability to inspire, guide, and develop a high-performing team.
- Deep understanding of the Ontario business environment and policy landscape. ? Event or project management experience considered an asset.

**What We Offer**:

- Competitive salary and compensation package that includes life and health insurance benefits and a matching RRSP plan.
- An annual merit-based bonus plan.
- Four weeks of vacation plus office closure between Christmas and New Year's Day.
- Professional development opportunities to develop new skills through courses, training, or membership in specific areas of interest.
- Opportunities to attend and present at relevant conferences and summits.
- Opportunities to grow your public profile and develop your professional network.
- Friendly, collegial, and supportive team and work environment.
- Flexible work arrangements. Working Arrangement
- The position is based in the OCC's office, normally with three in-office days per week, and a hybrid work option for other days.
- The OCC's office is in downtown Toronto, with easy access to transit.
- Travel within Ontario may be required.

**How to Apply**:
**About Us**

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is the indispensable partner of business and Canada's largest, most influential provincial chamber. It is an independent, non-profit. advocacy and member services organization. The OCC has 60,000 members, including large multinational corporations, small-to-medium-sized enterprises, labour unions, postsecondary institutions, non-profits, associations and close to 160 chambers of commerce and boards of trade. The OCC's mission is to convene, align and advance the interests of its members through principled policy work, value-added business services and broad engagement to drive competitiveness and sustainable, inclusive economic growth in the province.

**Values**:
**Non-Partisan**:We approach every issue and decision without bias towards any political group, ensuring our actions are based on objective evidence and support the best interests of our members and greater economy.

**Integrity**: Our commitment to honesty and ethical conduct drives our interactions, decisions, and operations, fostering a culture of trust, transparency, and accountability.

**Service Excellence**: We consistently strive to exceed expectations, providing outstanding value, support and solutions to our members and stakeholders, enhancing their engagement and experiences.

**Entrepreneurial**:Embracing innovation and creativity, we proactively seek new opportunities, adapt to ch