Government Relations Officer

Job Title: Government Relations Officer

Location: Ottawa, Ontario

Organization: World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO)

Position Type: Full-time

About the World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO):

The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization committed to protecting and promoting the rights of Sikhs and other minority communities across Canada. Through advocacy, education, and community outreach, WSO works to foster a more just, inclusive society. We actively engage with government bodies, stakeholders, and the public to ensure that Sikh values and perspectives are represented in public policy and social discourse.

Position Overview:

The Government Relations Officer will be responsible for managing WSO’s relationships with government officials, public institutions, and policymakers at all levels. Based in Ottawa, this position plays a crucial role in advocating for the rights and interests of the Sikh community in the political and legislative spheres, providing strategic support to WSO’s advocacy efforts. The officer will collaborate with internal teams and external partners to shape public policy, engage in legislative processes, and raise awareness of issues impacting Sikh Canadians.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Government Advocacy and Representation:

• Act as the primary liaison between WSO and government officials, policymakers, and relevant agencies at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels.
• Develop and implement advocacy strategies to influence public policy, legislation, and regulations that affect the Sikh community and other marginalized groups.
• Monitor and analyze relevant policy developments, legislation, and government programs to identify opportunities for advocacy.
• Draft letters, position papers, briefs, and submissions to government stakeholders on key issues affecting the Sikh community.
• Engage with political leaders, bureaucrats, and governmental bodies to advance the WSO’s advocacy agenda.

2. Strategic Planning and Policy Development:

• Work closely with senior leadership to define and prioritize WSO’s government relations objectives and strategies.
• Provide expertise and advice on government affairs, policy development, and advocacy initiatives.
• Ensure that WSO’s position on various issues is clear, consistent, and effective in all communications with government representatives.

3. Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and maintain relationships with key government stakeholders, community leaders, other advocacy organizations, and industry associations.
• Coordinate meetings, events, and briefings to raise awareness of key issues and strengthen WSO’s influence in government circles.
• Collaborate with internal teams to support the development of public campaigns, presentations, and lobbying efforts.

4. Legislative Monitoring and Reporting:

• Stay up to date on relevant legislative developments, bills, and political trends that impact the Sikh community.
• Track and analyze government policies, budgets, and legislative actions, ensuring timely reporting to internal stakeholders.
• Prepare regular updates and reports for WSO leadership and stakeholders on advocacy outcomes, government relations efforts, and key developments in the political landscape.

5. Public Policy Research:

• Conduct research on policies, programs, and issues affecting the Sikh community and marginalized groups, compiling data and evidence to support advocacy efforts.
• Provide insights and recommendations on how to best engage with government bodies and policymakers to achieve organizational goals.

6. Media and Public Relations Support:

• Support the development of public statements, media releases, and speeches to further the organization’s government relations goals.
• Help prepare senior WSO leadership for meetings and engagements with government representatives, providing briefing materials and talking points.

Qualifications:

Required:

• A strong understanding of government structures, political processes, and public policy in Canada.
• Proven experience in government relations, public affairs, or policy advocacy, preferably in a non-profit or advocacy setting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft concise and compelling policy documents and communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
• Experience in preparing reports, position papers, and public statements for government and media.
• Solid understanding of issues facing the Sikh community and other minority communities in Canada.
• Strong networking and relationship-building skills with government officials, legislators, and stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Google Suite and familiarity with government databases and resources.

Preferred:

• Experience working in a legislative or policy-making environment.
• A deep understanding of Sikhi, history, culture, and values.
• Fluency in Punjabi is preferred
• Strong public speaking and presentation skills.
• Experience in grassroots organizing and mobilization efforts.

Compensation:

Range: $90,000 to $100,000 | Flexible based on experience.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience to [email protected]. Please include "Government Relations Officer Application" in the subject line.