The Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) is a national profession-based health care association representing over 8000 chiropractors across Canada. The association works closely with the 10 provincial associations to promote the profession and build strong relationships with provincial and federal governments to ensure the growth and recognition of the profession in the healthcare system. The CCA’s purpose is Supporting chiropractors for a healthier Canada . We are a dynamic, innovative association that strives to create new opportunities for our members, and we value diversity and work to ensure our workplace is equitable and inclusive.

Position Overview:

Reporting to the CEO, the  Senior Manager of Government Relations (SGR)  provides coordination, development and execution of the CCA’s agenda for building advocacy capacity and advancing the interests of the profession. Leading and collaborating with a strong Public Affairs team, this includes developing, implementing and ensuring the ongoing delivery of effective government and insurance stakeholder relations programs that advance the CCA’s strategic objectives and build awareness and reputation within key public and private sector stakeholders.

The SGR contributes to establishing and achieving strategic objectives and goals and works collaboratively with the CCA team on communication efforts and issues management internally and externally in support of policy and advocacy objectives. In addition, the SGR proactively seeks opportunities to support the success of the organization, and contribute to a positive working environment, engaged membership and a positive member experience.

Direct Report(s), if any:

• Contract Consultant or Advisors
• Public Affairs Intern

Key Responsibilities:

Advocacy 40%

• Work closely with the Senior Manager of Policy to advance progressive healthcare policies and achieve the CCA’s advocacy objectives
• Develop our research and analysis capacity to ensure a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the profession
• Ensure analysis and learnings are integrated into advocacy initiatives and programs.
• Develop materials and presentations that advance the positive role chiropractors can play within extended health benefits and group insurance
• Develop government submissions to forward the agenda of the profession nationally
• Oversee and deliver strategic initiatives to help the profession reach its potential
• Lead and participate in advocacy efforts that bolster the chiropractic profession and are aligned with the CCA’s strategic objectives
• Lead initiatives that demonstrate positive impact of chiropractic and advocate for the enhanced funding of chiropractic with the insurance sector
• Participate in and coordinate key public affairs campaigns in conjunction with the CEO to reach broad audiences and forward the advocacy agenda of the profession. This includes engaging and supporting members through grassroots advocacy initiatives
• Organize and leads outreach to MPs, government officials, and other stakeholders, including drafting correspondence and securing meetings
• Assist in developing and maintaining relationships with government officials and agencies

Government, Stakeholder and Media Relations 40%

• In collaboration with the Marketing Department, engage media outlets to promote key messaging that positively positions the profession
• Support the direction of the CEO in developing and managing all crisis and issues communications
• Be aware of the key issues that are being reported in the media that are affecting or have implications for the profession
• Provide support to provincial associations on issues related to insurance and government advocacy and support their efforts to advance the profession
• Participate in interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities and build effective working relationships with stakeholders within the health sector and government to position the profession as a major contributor to the health of Canadians
• In conjunction with the CEO, coordinate the development and implementation of communication efforts and issues management internally and externally in support of advocacy objectives

Planning and budgeting 20%

• Ensures the goals related to advocacy and public affairs are achieved in support of the CCA’s purpose & strategic and financial objectives
• Assists in short- and long-term plans and budgets for public affairs and advocacy activities. This includes monitoring progress, assuring adherence to plans and evaluating the performance and outcomes
• Keeps informed of best practices and trends in the chiropractic and health sector and the specific business of the CCA and leverage knowledge and expertise in the service of innovation and strategic leadership

Qualifications & Relevant Skills

• A university degree in a related field (public policy, social sciences, government relations, public or business administration, or other related disciplines) is required, with a master’s degree preferred or post-graduate diploma / degree
• CAE Designation an asset, not required
• 2+ years of experience in manager or supervisory position
• Min. 4 years of experience in government relations and advocacy
• Strong knowledge of best practices for membership associations and not-for-profits
• Demonstrated experience in developing, executing, and managing programs and initiatives across various teams
• Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement, advocacy and government relations
• Understanding of Canada’s political system(s) both federally and provincially, including legislative, executive and judicial branches
• Must be fully compliant to act as a lobbyist under the Federal Accountability Act
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills – writing, presenting
• Effective presentation skills with ability to engage diverse audience
• Superior leadership skills – inspire, coach, mentor, motivate
• Work effectively with stakeholders and partners
• French language competency is an asset

Hiring Range:  $85,000-90,000   commensurate with experience.

The CCA offers a comprehensive group benefits package and  hybrid work environment. We thank you for your interest in working at the CCA.

Applicants will be asked to submit work samples demonstrating their experience that include presentations, writing (policies, correspondence, press release), campaign photos/plan, communications plan, creative briefs or even reports (metric or final campaign).

The CCA is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable environment where all those participating in the organization are valued for their differences. We encourage and welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including applicants from all cultures and backgrounds, racialized communities, indigenous communities, diverse sexual and gender identities, various religious backgrounds, women and those with disabilities. We are committed to a selection process and work environment that is inclusive and barrier-free. We encourage applicants to self-identify if they wish to do so.

The CCA acknowledges the enduring and vibrant presence, culture, history and inherent rights of First Nations people, Métis and Inuit across Canada on whose traditional territories CCA members live and work, as well as where the CCA has its head office in Toronto. // L’ACC reconnaît la culture et l’histoire des membres des Premières nations, des Métis et des Inuits de tout le Canada, ainsi que leur présence durable et dynamique et leurs droits inhérents sur les territoires traditionnels où vivent et travaillent des membres de l’ACC et où est établi son siège social à Toronto.