Why SRC?
With more than 350 employees and over 75 years of experience, the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) is Canada’s second largest research and technology organization. We help clients from across the world solve complex technology challenges, seize new opportunities, and reduce their environmental impact.
Our employees make a difference. We hire people who are passionate about their work because we are passionate about making a positive impact in our province and beyond. We recognize the important value of work-life balance and our employees enjoy generous time off. SRC also offers many other benefits such as flexible retirement and savings options, insured benefits, professional development opportunities, a robust safety program and an outstanding team environment.
Overview
The Saskatchewan Research Council’s (SRC) External Relations team is seeking a qualified individual for the Principal, Government Relations role to lead the government relations function, represent SRC with government stakeholders and act as the organization’s primary liaison with public sector entities.
Accountabilities
•Provide strategic leadership to the government relations function, setting long-term strategic direction that aligns with SRC’s business priorities and corporate strategy
•Serve as the senior liaison between SRC and government stakeholders, cultivating and sustaining high level relationships with government officials, ensuring proactive, transparent and effective communication
•Anticipate, identify and respond to emerging political, policy and regulatory issues and advise the Executive Leadership Team on how these issues may impact SRC’s operations and growth
•Oversee the development of strategic briefings, policy submissions, government correspondence and SRC’s contributions to legislative and regulatory processes
•Act as a public spokesperson or senior representative at government-led forums, public consultations, diplomatic events and advisory panels
•Coordinate and lead cross-functional teams on initiatives requiring complex stakeholder collaboration or intergovernmental navigation
•Direct the development of key internal deliverables, such as Cabinet documents, Treasury Board packages, briefing notes and SRC’s Annual Report
•Oversee the planning and execution of government and diplomatic visits, ensuring alignment with strategic messaging and organizational priorities
Qualifications
•Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Communications or a related field; a master’s degree or equivalent would be considered an asset
•Minimum 10 years of progressive experience working in government relations, public policy or political strategy
•Experience managing or advising on high-profile public engagements or delegations is required
•Experience working in science, technology, innovation or regulatory environments is preferred
Skills
•Exceptional political acumen with a deep knowledge of government processes, policymaking and legislative environments across multiple jurisdictions
•Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with a high degree of discretion and professionalism
•Exceptionally strong written and verbal communication skills and high attention to detail
•Ability to build and maintain high-trust relationships across diverse and influential stakeholder groups
This posting will remain open until the role has been filled.
The chosen candidate will also be required to provide an original Criminal Record Check that is satisfactory to SRC prior to the commencement of any employment duties. The Criminal Record Check must have been executed within the preceding 30 days of receipt.
Please indicate on your application where you heard about the position as SRC works with several partners to support an inclusive workplace that embraces diverse backgrounds. Our goal is to engage and empower all people so they can successfully achieve their professional goals.