Reporting to the Manager of Policy and Advocacy, the policy advisor serves an important role in representing the interests of RMA and its members. The policy advisor researches, analyzes, and provides the rural municipal perspective on a variety of provincial and federal policy issues. The policy advisor represents RMA through participation in government consultations, on government and stakeholder committees, and through the creation of both formal submissions and informal correspondence with external stakeholders. The policy advisor also supports the strategic communications objectives of RMA by contributing to the development of a weekly newsletter and producing communications materials (e.g. website material, speaking notes, position statements). The policy advisor works closely with the other members of the External Relations and Advocacy (ERA) Department, the RMA Board of Directors, member municipalities and stakeholder organizations.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Monitoring of federal and provincial legislation, regulations, and policy as it pertains to rural municipalities and rural issues via legislative drafts, discussion papers, media, government personnel, etc.
- Monitoring of issues, trends, and events affecting rural municipalities which inform the development of advocacy positions and resources.
- Conducting detailed research on policy issues and utilizing that information to bring about positive change for RMA and its member municipalities.
- Researching and drafting various resources, including but not limited to the following:
- internally focused documents such as briefings and requests for decisions
(RFDs)
- submissions to government and other key stakeholders
- position statements
- reports and position papers
- speaking notes and presentations
- letters
- requests for proposals (RFPs)
- editorials and press releases
- surveys
- Serving as project manager by overseeing and managing all aspects of various project-based initiatives, including:
- Identifying potential project opportunities that align with RMA strategic goals and member needs.
- Managing RFP process.
- Supporting grant reporting for funding used to support project activities where required.
- Reporting to senior administration and the RMA Board of Directors on progress throughout the project development process and communicating objectives and next steps to membership.
- Ensuring that the project proceeds in scope, on time, and on budget.
- Ensuring that the final product reflects RMA branding and quality standards to meet the needs of members.
- Supporting RMA’s Strategic Direction:
- Ensuring the rural municipal perspective is integrated into research, analysis, and position development.
- Contributing to the preparation and implementation of the strategic and operational plan for the ERA department.
- Supporting the development of an internal advocacy strategy to identify, implement and monitor advocacy objectives in alignment with strategic goals. This includes the identification of key issues, and targeted stakeholders and government ministries.
- Reporting results and disseminating information to the members via the Advocacy Report Card, Contact newsletter, and other means.
- Developing content for the RMA Annual Report to support transparency and accountability to members and stakeholders.
- Acting as lead administrator and researcher for RMA committees.
- Developing and managing convention content in alignment with current policy environment and member needs.
Requirements:
- Post-secondary education is required. A degree in political science, intergovernmental affairs, public policy, or a related discipline is considered an asset.
- A graduate degree is not required but considered an asset.
- Legislative Assembly or government (of any level) experience is an asset.
- Municipal experience or demonstrated familiarity with municipalities is an asset.
- High proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook is essential.
- Excellent written, oral, and listening communication skills, outstanding critical thinking and analytical skills, and exceptional organizational and planning skills.
- Personable and able to build and maintain professional relationships.
- Able to work with minimal supervision, self-motivated, and self-directed.
- Manages multiple priorities in a fast-paced and changing environment while able to quickly analyze problems to reach a conclusion.
- Expects the highest quality performance from self and others.
- Enjoys working in a team environment including keeping others appropriately informed.
Compensation
- Commensurate on experience, post-secondary education (bachelor and master level degrees), and determined according to the current RMA salary grid.
- Salary range: $59,568 – 89,760.
- Includes a comprehensive benefits package plus Local Authorities Pension Plan (LAPP) pension, after applicable waiting periods.
The RMA is an equal opportunity employer. Any applicant that meets the qualifications above is encouraged to apply. Priority will be given to Canadian citizens and those already legally entitled to work in Canada.
We thank all applicants in advance of their submissions, but only those chosen for an interview will be notified.
Additional Job Information:
Posted Date: Mar 24, 2022
Closing Date: Apr 15, 2022