Government Relations and Advocacy Specialist

Job Description

<h3>Job Description</h3><p>Job Description<p>Company Information/About Us:  We’re the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) a not-for-profit national trade association that represents and advocates for member companies in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration industry (HVACR). Our members include wholesalers, manufacturers, contractors, and other professionals with an interest in this industry and improving its impact on the environment.  We’ve been around for more than 50 years and believe it or not, still growing!  Job Summary: Working within a cross-sectoral and cross-country team of professionals, this role will focus on building HRAI’s ability to address the public policy and government relations needs of members in Ontario.  Vacancy Status  * This posting is for an existing vacancy.  Key Responsibilities:  External Engagement with Government and Stakeholders    * Strategic engagement with key elected officials and government staff at the provincial level;   * Communicating with policymakers about HRAI’s strategic priorities and issues, identifying opportunities for collaboration where available;   * Monitoring and reporting on legislative and regulatory activities of elected officials and key government departments and agencies at the provincial level;   * Working with allied trade associations and stakeholders as necessary and appropriate;   * Representing HRAI as necessary on designated committees and consultations.  Policy and Advocacy Strategy Development and Implementation  * Coordinating partnerships with like-minded organizations on key issues;  * Recruiting and working with industry volunteers to participate in campaigns and/or committees;  * Seeking platforms and opportunities in the public space for HRAI experts to publish and/or speak as experts;  * Collaborating with other technical and government relations staff (including external) as needed;  * Creating written materials, including language for policy, budget, legislative and regulatory submissions, comments, letters of support and other advocacy activities;  * Assisting in the organization of advocacy events and consensus-building discussion forums and roundtables;  * Working with the team to develop GR communications strategies  Internal Planning  * Preparation of policy briefings and updates for boards and senior staff as necessary;  * Engagement with divisional boards and committees/task teams.  Qualifications   * Bachelor’s degree in relevant study areas (history, political science, policy, public administration, public affairs or related fields).  Master’s degree preferred.    * More than 5 years of experience within public administration, public affairs, policy, and advocacy is expected (including but not limited to experience at Queen’s Park).   * Excellent verbal and written communication.  * Strong project management skills.  * HVACR Industry-specific knowledge.  * A valid G license and access to personal vehicle.  * French language proficiency considered an asset but not required.  Why Join Us:  * Hybrid Model: Work 4 days in-office near Toronto Pearson Airport, with remote Fridays to recharge.  * Vacation & Benefits: Start with 3 weeks of vacation, comprehensive benefits, summer hour schedule and Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) top-up.  * Retirement Ready: Employer RRSP contributions after 1 year.  * Impactful Work: Be part of a tight-knit, purpose-driven team working on big climate, workforce development, and energy issues that affect every Canadian.  HRAI is committed to fair and equitable recruiting practices in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disability Act (AODA). Persons with disabilities are encouraged to come forward at any stage of the recruitment process to request accommodations, if needed.  HRAI is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to building a team that reflects a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills.  Please note that AI-assisted tools may be used to support the preliminary screening of applications. All applicant assessments and hiring decisions involve human oversight.</p></p>