Policy and Program Development
Develop and oversee the implementation of policies, procedures, and programs aligned to the organization’s objectives and strategic plan
Conduct research and analysis to support policy/research development and decision-making
Prepare reports, briefing materials, and presentations on policy issues for senior management, the Board, government officials, and other stakeholders
Identify targeted areas for research that align to COG’s strategic priorities
Evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies and make recommendations for improvement
Develop options and recommendations for new or revised policies
Monitor developments in the field and keep up to date on best practices to inform policy and research development
Relationship Building and Sector Advancement
Foster positive relationships as a trusted and credible stakeholder with the federal government, and where possible, with provincial governments
Liaise with internal and external partners to exchange information and feedback on policy initiatives
Coordinate and lead policy/research consultations with a national network of relevant stakeholders to achieve important policy victories for Canadian organic farmers
Serve on the Farmers for Climate Solutions Policy Working Group to assist in the development and promotion of a shared policy agenda and strategy
Support COG in their role as a member of the AAFC Sustainable Agriculture Strategy Advisory Committee
Support the Executive Director, Board Chair, farmer leaders and others in government relations
Maintain and build a network to ensure government contacts are up to date with COG’s priorities
Staff and Project Management
Coordinate research projects with farmers and other industry and academic experts
Manage projects related to policy development and implementation
Supervise staff working on policy development and implementation
Train staff on new or revised policies
Other Duties
This role may include other tasks and responsibilities that may arise during the term of this position. However, every effort will be made to provide advanced notice and keep tasks within reason to the original duties outlined within this job description.
The list below describes the experience/qualifications needed to succeed in the job. If you possess approximately 80 percent of the essential experience/qualifications, we encourage you to apply.
Required Skills and Qualifications
7-10 years in policy/research development, analysis, and/or advocacy roles in the science, agriculture, climate change or sustainability sectors
Ability to maintain and build relationships through partnership and collaboration with multiple organizations
Demonstrated success developing and implementing policy initiatives
Understanding and awareness of research on the impacts of agriculture on climate change
Experience strategically integrating research findings into policy priorities
Experience facilitating groups, listening carefully to diverse perspectives, and integrating ideas to meet the goals of a collective strategy
Superior writing, research, and analytical skills
Experience developing policy proposals and communicating complex ideas clearly through compelling messaging
Proven abilities in writing successful proposal and grant applications
Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
Proven project management experience
Leadership experience in driving new initiatives from start to finish
Ability to manage staff, work independently and as part of a team
Ability to communicate effectively in both of Canada’s official languages
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
Graduate/Post graduate degree in public policy, law, research or related field
Familiarity with the agriculture sector in Canada including its policy frameworks and the current areas of research
Experience working in the legislative or executive branch of government
Knowledge of the policy making process at the federal level
Position Details
Job Type: Full time permanent
Schedule: Monday-Friday with occasional evening and weekend work as required
Start Date: Immediate
Compensation: $80,00-$90,000 or commensurate with experience and includes a comprehensive benefits package
Equal Opportunity
COG provides equal employment opportunities to employees regardless of their gender, race, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or marital status. As such, we encourage groups who have been historically disadvantaged with respect to employment to apply for positions at COG. We offer a family-friendly environment that allows for flexible work arrangements to support staff diversity and ensure a healthy work-life balance.
The ability to relocate to the Ottawa/Gatineau region is an asset to this position. The position offers a combination of home and office-based if the chosen candidate resides in the Ottawa/Gatineau region. Regular travel to the Ottawa/Gatineau region will be required if the chosen candidate does not reside in this region. As COG staff work remotely from locations across Canada, staff require reliable internet service that allows for smooth online video and audio communication.
How to Apply
Please send a cover letter and resume to president@cog.ca The deadline for applications is July 15, 2023.