About the Role
Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the VP, Advocacy & Research is a key member of the leadership team, responsible for providing strategic direction and oversight for the organization’s advocacy and research portfolios. This role is pivotal in shaping public policy, raising awareness about food insecurity, and driving evidence-based solutions to reduce hunger across Canada.
The successful candidate will work in a hybrid model that requires travel and regular in-office presence at our Ottawa office.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Strategy:
- Provide strategic leadership and oversight for advocacy and research initiatives, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and strategic priorities.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
- Contribute to the overall strategic planning and decision-making processes as a member of the leadership team.
- Advocacy & Public Policy:
- Develop and implement comprehensive advocacy strategies to influence public policy related to food insecurity, poverty, and social justice.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials, policymakers, partner organizations, and key stakeholders.
- Represent the organization in various forums, committees, and media engagements to advance advocacy goals.
- Monitor and analyze policy developments, preparing policy briefs, submissions, and recommendations.
- Research & Data Analysis:
- Oversee the design, execution, and dissemination of research projects focused on understanding the root causes and impacts of food insecurity.
- Ensure the rigor and relevance of research methodologies, data collection, and analysis.
- Translate complex research findings into accessible reports, presentations, and policy recommendations for diverse audiences.
- Collaborate with external researchers, academics, and data partners to enhance research capacity and impact.
- Stakeholder Engagement & Communications:
- Work closely with internal teams (e.g., communications, fundraising, network relations) to integrate advocacy and research efforts across the organization.
- Develop compelling communication materials and campaigns to raise public awareness and mobilize support for the organization’s advocacy positions.
- Engage with the food bank network to understand their needs, challenges, and insights, integrating them into advocacy and research agendas.
- Financial Management:
- Manage the advocacy and research departmental budgets effectively, ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability.
- Identify and pursue funding opportunities to support advocacy and research initiatives.
Qualifications
- Education:
- Master’s degree in Public Policy, Social Sciences, Economics, or a related field; a PhD is an asset.
- Experience:
- Minimum of 10-12 years of progressive leadership experience in advocacy, public policy, or research, preferably within the non-profit sector or a related field.
- Proven track record of successfully influencing public policy and driving systemic change.
- Extensive experience in designing, conducting, and disseminating research, including quantitative and qualitative methodologies.
- Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including government, civil society organizations, and academic institutions.
- Experience in managing and developing high-performing teams.
- Skills & Knowledge:
- Deep understanding of food insecurity, poverty, and social justice issues in Canada.
- Exceptional strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills (oral and written).
- Ability to translate complex information into clear, concise, and compelling narratives for various audiences.
- Proficiency in data analysis software and research methodologies.
- Familiarity with the Canadian political landscape and legislative processes.
- Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Fluency in both official languages (English and French) is a strong asset.
