Vice President, Federal

Sussex is seeking a senior advisor with a proven track record of achieving major success for clients and leading transformational policy changes within government, to help effectively achieve Federal policy outcomes. The Vice President will act with urgency to achieve results on behalf of clients, working closely with team members to develop and execute comprehensive public affairs strategies, manage high-level client relationships, and lead advocacy efforts.

This role requires extensive experience in public policy, government relations, and strategic communications, coupled with strong leadership and business development skills. The Vice President will play a key role in shaping and influencing policy outcomes for our clients and supporting the growth of our firm. A key advantage will be having a deep understanding of energy, natural resources, mining and defence issues.

• Collaborate with team members to develop and implement government relations and public affairs strategies for clients federally.
• Advise clients on public policy and government relations issues, ensuring top-quality service.
• Perform in-depth research and analysis on public policy matters, legislative developments, and regulatory changes. Provide clients with strategic insights and practical recommendations.
• Establish and sustain strong relationships with senior government officials, policymakers, industry executives, and other relevant stakeholders. Serve as a representative for both clients and the firm during essential meetings and negotiations.
• Oversee and manage extensive advocacy campaigns, which includes creating strategic briefing documents and arranging high-level meetings with policymakers.
• Oversee the creation of impactful communication materials, including policy briefs, reports, presentations and media releases.
• Ensure the continuous monitoring of legislative and regulatory developments, track key issues and provide regular updates to clients and the team.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior team members, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Spearhead business development initiatives by identifying emerging opportunities, overseeing proposal preparation, and strengthening client partnerships. Support the firm's advancement through targeted and strategic business development actions.
• Skilfully translate business objectives into compelling messages for government audiences, ensuring alignment between client goals and public policy outcomes.
• Demonstrate urgency and proactive leadership in driving results for clients, consistently seeking opportunities to deliver impactful outcomes.

• Minimum 13 years of experience in government relations, public policy, or related fields, with a focus on the federal government.
• Bachelor’s degree in an applicable area such as political science, public policy, communications, business or economics. An advanced degree would be considered an asset.
• Extensive knowledge of the political and legislative processes in Canada.
• Proven track record of successfully developing and executing complex public affairs strategies, influencing policy outcomes, and managing high-level client relationships.
• Excellent communication skills, including writing, public speaking, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Strategic thinker with analytical capabilities, problem-solving skills, and the ability to translate insights into actionable plans.
• Strong network of contacts within the federal government and government circles.
• Must be detailed orientated and focused on accuracy of work.
• Ability to work in a multi-tasking environment, and the flexibility to adapt to different situations and client needs.
• Proven organization, time management and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated leadership, mentorship, and team management abilities.

Pay Grade: $170,000 - $220,000

AI Screening: This position does not utilize AI tools as part of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and efficient evaluation of applicants.

Vacancy Status: This posting is for an existing role within our organization.

Interview Notification: Applicants selected for interviews will…