Coordinator, Government Relations

Who We Are

Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.

SFU Government Relations supports the university's academic, research, and community goals by building strong partnerships with government and community stakeholders. We lead SFU's government relations efforts, ensuring coordinated advocacy and strategic engagement across all levels of government—federal, provincial, and local. Our work includes advising on government policies, managing SFU's interactions with government entities, and fostering collaboration opportunities to advance the university's priorities.

About the Role

The Coordinator, Government Relations is responsible for preparing briefing materials; monitoring and responding to trends in higher education, research and innovation policy; data and trend analysis; ensuring compliance with provincial and federal policies; and helping to produce a variety of SFU submissions for government to contribute to advancing and enhancing SFU's overall government relations mandate. The role works closely with University Communications, SFU faculties, and the President's Office and VP executive portfolios in the development and implementation of a university-wide government relations strategy and related activities.

The successful candidate will need to demonstrate a strong understanding and experience building effective government relations strategies, as well as have existing productive relationships with key stakeholders at the federal, provincial and local government. They should demonstrate excellent policy research skills and ability to craft compelling policy positions.

Full Job Description 

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Relations, Public Policy, Public Administration or a related discipline and a minimum of five years related experience in government relations and experience presenting complex issues and opportunities to high-level officials and third-party partners; or the equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Strong Communication Skills: The ability to write clearly, concisely, and persuasively is essential for drafting briefing notes, correspondence, and advocacy materials. Equally important is verbal communication, particularly when presenting information to internal and external stakeholders or facilitating discussions.
• Knowledge of Government Processes: A solid understanding of how government operates at all levels is critical. This includes knowledge of legislative and policy-making processes, decision-making structures, and the roles of various governmental departments and agencies.
• Relationship-Building and Interpersonal Skills: Building trust and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including elected officials, public servants, and community leaders, is fundamental. The ability to network effectively and act as a bridge between the organization and external partners is crucial.
• Strategic Thinking and Problem-Solving: A coordinator must be able to assess complex issues, align them with organizational priorities, and propose actionable solutions. This includes anticipating challenges and identifying opportunities to advance the organization's goals.
• Organizational and Project Management Skills: The role often involves coordinating multiple initiatives, tracking progress, and ensuring alignment across departments. Being detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and capable of managing competing priorities is vital.

What We Offer

At SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work-life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer continuing employees who belong in the Administrative & Professional Staff Association (APSA):

• 4 weeks' vacation (prorated for the first year)*
• Hybrid-work program for eligible positions
• Employer paid defined benefit pension plan
• On-campus tuition waiver for employees and their immediate family members*
• Off-campus tuition reimbursements and professional development funds*
• And more View our benefits brochure

*Prorated for part-time employees

Additional Information

Please include your cover letter and resume in one attachment.

SFU is an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.

We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact