Specialist, Government Relations

As a Specialist, Government Relations at NAV CANADA, you will collaborate with the Manager of Government and Media Relations to develop strategies that strengthen the organization's reputation. Your role will encompass preparing advocacy materials, coordinating communications with key stakeholders, conducting research on legislation and policy developments, and representing NAV CANADA at industry events. You will play a crucial part in maintaining relationships with government officials and ensuring effective communication of the organization's objectives.

To qualify for the Specialist, Government Relations role at NAV CANADA, candidates should hold a bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, or a related field. A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in government relations or public affairs is required, along with excellent communication skills, strategic thinking abilities, and a solid understanding of Canadian public policy and government operations.

The Specialist, Government Relations at NAV CANADA plays a pivotal role in advocacy by developing and disseminating materials that communicate the organization’s perspectives on critical issues. This includes preparing position papers, briefing notes, and presentations to engage with government stakeholders effectively. By maintaining positive relationships and providing timely information, you ensure that NAV CANADA's interests are represented in discussions shaping aviation policies.

The work environment for the Specialist, Government Relations at NAV CANADA is described as challenging and team-oriented. The position is hybrid, based primarily in the Ottawa Head Office, but also offers flexible work arrangements. The role emphasizes collaboration and innovation, providing a comfortable, inclusive space where your ideas and contributions are appreciated, enhancing both your professional and personal growth.

Yes, the Specialist, Government Relations role at NAV CANADA offers significant opportunities for growth and professional development. The organization is committed to fostering a culture of learning, allowing employees to enhance their skills and knowledge in government relations. With competitive compensation and benefits, along with exposure to high-level government interactions, this role serves as a stepping stone for further career advancement within the organization or the broader public policy landscape.

When discussing your experience in government relations, highlight specific roles where you developed strategies for engaging stakeholders, worked on advocacy initiatives, or influenced policy decisions. Mention any relevant projects or campaigns you were part of, emphasizing your communication skills and the relationships you built with government officials.

To stay informed about legislative developments, I regularly follow relevant news sources, subscribe to industry newsletters, and participate in professional networks. Additionally, I engage with policy experts and attend government briefings. This proactive approach allows me to anticipate changes and understand their implications for our organization.

Building relationships with government stakeholders requires a combination of knowledge and interpersonal skills. I focus on understanding their priorities and challenges, communicating consistently, and building trust through transparency. Attending events and industry forums is also an effective way to foster these connections.

Certainly! In a previous role, I faced resistance from stakeholders on a proposed policy change. I approached the challenge by conducting thorough research, understanding their concerns, and arranging meetings to present not just the benefits but also the adjustments made in response to their feedback. This led to a more collaborative partnership and ultimately, the policy was successfully adopted.

In a dynamic environment, I prioritize tasks by assessing deadlines and urgency, aligning them with organizational goals. I often use task management tools, maintain clear communication with my team, and regularly review priorities to ensure that I remain focused and can adapt to any shifts in project demands.

Advocacy plays a critical role in public policy by ensuring that diverse voices are heard and considered in the legislative process. It helps educate decision-makers about the impacts of policies and fosters dialogue between stakeholders, leading to informed decisions that benefit society as a whole.

To communicate complex policy issues to non-experts, I use simple language, analogies, and visuals to make the information relatable. I focus on the core message and implications, ensuring that relevance is clear without overwhelming the audience with technical jargon.

Research is foundational to my government relations strategy. It informs my understanding of the political landscape, stakeholder positions, and legislative developments. In-depth research enables me to craft targeted messaging and advocacy efforts that resonate with decision-makers.

To measure success, I look at a combination of qualitative and quantitative metrics. This includes tracking engagement with stakeholders, monitoring shifts in policy support, and receiving feedback from internal and external partners on the effectiveness of our advocacy efforts.

I am excited about the opportunity to work as a Specialist, Government Relations at NAV CANADA because of the organization’s commitment to innovation and leadership in the aviation sector. I am passionate about public policy and see this role as a chance to contribute to impactful initiatives that ensure safe and efficient air navigation services in Canada.