Director, Strategic Initiatives & Government Relations
Halton Region is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We value, welcome and respect the unique perspectives and contributions of all individuals. We encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples (First Nation, Métis, Inuit), Black and racialized persons, persons with disabilities, women, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Accommodations are available at any point upon request for candidates participating in the selection process.
As an employer of choice, Halton Region recognizes the many benefits of hybrid work arrangements including flexibility and better work-life balance for our employees. This position is eligible for our Hybrid Work Program.
Posting ID: 4271
Department: The CAO’s Office
Division: Strategic Initiatives & Government Relations
Pay Range: $170,785 – $213,481
Job Type: Permanent
Hours of Work: 35 hours per week
Work Location: 1151 Bronte Road, Oakville, ON
Employee Group: MMSG
Posting Date: May 20, 2025
Application Deadline: June 3, 2025
Job Summary
The Director, Strategic Initiatives & Government Relations is an experienced leader, collaborator and strategic thinker with a deep understanding of municipal public administration. Working closely with the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), this role leads professional teams in Strategic Initiatives, Government Relations, Climate Change and Reconciliation.
As a member of the Region’s senior leadership team, the Director is a key strategic advisor to the Regional Chair, the CAO, and Regional Council.
We will begin reviewing applications as they are received, and highly qualified candidates may be invited to participate in preliminary assessments before the posting closes. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible and not wait until the June 3, 2025 deadline
Duties & Responsibilities
• Leadership of the CAO’s Office including the following teams: Strategic Initiatives; Government Relations; and Climate Change and Reconciliation.
• Development and on-going monitoring of the Region’s strategic plan in collaboration with Regional Departments and stakeholders for Regional Council’s approval.
• Development and execution of a government relations strategy to advocate to other levels of government for the Region’s interests as determined by the Regional Chair and Regional Council.
• Engagement and relationship building with First Nations and Indigenous peoples building the Region’s commitment to truth and reconciliation.
• Development and implementation of the Region’s climate change plan in collaboration with Regional Departments, local municipalities and the community.
• Identification and tracking of current and emerging opportunities, issues and risks including initiatives by the local municipalities, the Provincial and the Federal Governments that may impact the Region.
• Foster effective relationships and where applicable partnerships with federal, provincial and other municipal governments, First Nations as well as public agencies.
• Participation in strategic cross-functional teams of senior leaders responsible for implementing strategic initiatives and corporate priorities.
• Leverage data and analytics to inform strategies and support effective decision making.
• Active participation with municipal organizations including AMO and FCM to promote the Region’s interests.
• Review draft Council reports prepared by Departments for alignment to strategy and issues management.
• Attend Council, Management Committee, and other meetings, presenting reports on key initiatives and representing the CAO’s Office.
• Create a positive workplace, developing and mentoring staff, and managing the budget for the CAO’s Office.
What You Bring
• 10 or more years of progressive experience in municipal public administration within a growing community.
• Demonstrated applied knowledge in strategic planning, municipal public policy, organizational performance improvement, government relations.
• Advanced understanding of community interests and issues and well-developed political acuity, diplomacy, and tact.
• Senior-level judgement, planning, problem-solving skills.
• Research, statistical and analytical skills and ability to oversee employees performing advanced quantitative analysis.
• Excellent communications skills including written reports and public presentations.
• Thorough knowledge of organizational performance best practices and principles, as well as continuous improvement methods.
