Director, Government Relations

Organizational UnitUniversity of Victoria -> VP External Relations -> Community and Government RelationsLocationUniversity of Victoria - Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2 CA (Primary)Posting Close Date4 January 2026Please note that positions will close at 4 p.m. on the closing date.FTE1.0Salary Grade$115, $165,707.00Additional Posting InformationN/ASalary posted will be pro-rated based on FTE and achieved as per the collective agreement, if applicable.ClassificationME12Start Date2/1/2026End Date2/1/2028Employee Group:Management Excluded - Termof Hires Needed1CategoryCommunications/Public RelationsAbout this OpportunityThe University of Victoria is one of Victoria's largest employers and one of Canada's best diversity employers. Together we are more than 5,000 dedicated faculty, librarians and staff supporting the University of Victoria's diverse academic programs, world-class research and commitment to civic engagement.An employee in this classification is excluded from the bargaining unit as defined in the Labour Relations Code.The salary range for this position is:Recruitment range: $115,274 - $144,093 maximum starting salary is determined through knowledge, experience and internal equity.Performance range: $165,707 salary range ceiling is available through annual performance increases.Job SummaryMandate:University Relations connects the university with the broader world by building strategic relationships, resources, and partnerships to enhance the institution's reputation and impact. The Government Relations Office facilitates and stewards' institutional partnerships with provincial and federal governments, ensuring alignment with the university's strategic priorities. The office provides advice, expertise, and advocacy to strengthen the institution's profile, secure resources, and influence policy in support of research, teaching, and service goals.Deputy to Associate Vice President, University Relations, the Director of Government Relations provides leadership, strategic direction, and management of the university's government relations activities. The Director is responsible for advancing the university's priorities through purposeful engagement with elected and non-elected officials, government staff, and key influencers at the provincial and federal levels. Decisions impact the university's ability to secure funding, influence policy, and maintain a strong reputation with government partners.Objectives:This role ensures alignment of institutional initiatives with government priorities, identifies opportunities for collaboration and funding, and provides counsel to internal stakeholders on government policy, protocols, and engagement strategies. The Director exercises full managerial authority over the Government Relations unit and serves as a core member of the University Relations senior leadership team, advising on politically sensitive issues, external risks, and opportunities with implications for institutional planning, reputation, and strategy.Working Conditions:The Director must possess flexibility to work longer hours in evening or on weekends to accommodate community and government events or major initiatives. May be required to register with federal governmental as lobbyist and to submit reports on lobbying activities when interacting with designated federal public office holders.Job RequirementsGraduate degree (or equivalent combination of education and experience) in political science, public administration, law, public policy, or a related field.Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in government relations, public policy, or a related area, ideally in a post-secondary, government, or public sector environment.Proven ability to exercise significant independence and judgment in developing and executing strategic government relations initiatives.Deep understanding of municipal, provincial and federal government organizational structures, priorities and protocols, and/or understanding of community based cultural, economic or social associations, organizations and NGO's.Understanding of provincial and Canada's political system(s), including the legislative, executive and judicial branches.Ability to monitor, interpret, and anticipate legislative and regulatory changes that may affect the institution.Experience in designing, implementing, and evaluating advocacy strategies aligned with institutional goals.Knowledge of federal lobbying regulations and requirements to ensure accurate and timely reporting.Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to build trust and credibility across diverse stakeholders.Demonstrated leadership and team management experience.Strong skills in policy research, data analysis, and synthesizing complex information into clear recommendations, and strategic thinking abilities.Ability to adapt to changing circumstances, consider various courses of action, understand implications of alternatives and recommend next steps.Territory Acknowledgement: We acknowledge and respect the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Xʷsepsəm/Esquimalt) Peoples on whose territory the university stands, and the Lək̓ʷəŋən and WSÁNEĆ Peoples whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day.Equity Statement: UVic is committed to upholding the values of equity, diversity, inclusion and human rights in our living, learning and work environments. In pursuit of our values, we seek members who are eager to actively participate in that shared responsibility. We actively encourage applications from members of historically and systemically marginalized groups.Read our full equity statement here: Accessibility Statement: If you anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application and hiring process contact: Any personal information provided will be maintained in confidence.What UVic Offers: To learn more click here