Director, Community & Government Relations

Director, Community & Government Relations

Why should you join our team?

YMCA Calgary is a charity that ignites the potential in Calgarians. Since our inception in 1902, we have evolved into a vibrant organization operating in every quadrant of the city.

Guided by our core values of honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility, YMCA Calgary offers a growing hub of programming & services to address the needs of our community including connection and belonging, physical and mental wellbeing, child-care support, language instruction, affordable tutoring, and more. We also ensure that no one is turned away, lowering financial barriers for youth, adults, and families through the generous donations of our community. This impact takes place across our 7 health and wellness facilities, 6 childcare centres, 2 outdoor camps, and 12+ community programs, empowering people of all ages and life stages to belong, grow, thrive, and lead.

You can make an impact in the community - locally and across the globe. You will work with a fun culture of people and enjoy many of the benefits and opportunities the YMCA offers:

1. Complimentary YMCA Calgary membership including a linked membership for dependent children;
2. Comprehensive health and dental benefits. Premiums paid in full by the Association;
3. Pension plan with specified contribution matching by the Association;
4. Anniversary flex day and gifts given to celebrate each year of employment;
5. Program discounts;
6. Ongoing leadership development and opportunities;
7. Leadership award opportunities;
8. Scholarship opportunities;
9. Paid recertification and training.

What qualifications are we looking for?

The successful candidate will have the following:

1. University degree in a related discipline or equivalent experience
2. Minimum of 5 years of public policy experience in a government or public policy environment
3. Strong understanding of the public policy process and issues management
4. Superior writing ability, including preparation of high-quality, values-based messaging
5. Ability to work independently and cross-functionally as part of a team
6. Strong initiative, planning, budgeting, and organizational skills
7. Highly developed political acumen and the ability to practice discretion on confidential matters
8. Tolerance for ambiguity and the ability to adapt well to a wide range of competing deadlines
9. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across all levels of internal and external stakeholders and value consensus as a desired outcome
10. Knowledge of the charitable sector is an asset
11. Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging as well as experience in implementing equity-focused initiatives that address systemic barriers at work
12. Evidence of a clear Police Information Check (PIC)
13. At least three professional references

What does this role look like at YMCA Calgary?

The Director of Community and Government Relations leads community and government relations, advocacy, and partnerships that advance the organization's strategic goals and enhance its impact.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead the development and implementation of policy and engagement strategies for community and government audiences.
2. Identify and pursue advocacy efforts that align with the YMCA's mission, vision, values, and strategic direction.
3. Build strong relationships with elected officials, government representatives, and key community partners.
4. Develop strategies, key messages, presentations, and collateral materials to support effective engagement with external stakeholders.
5. Frame complex issues into clear and impactful communications for various external audiences.
6. Collaborate with senior leaders and the Fund Development team to secure government support and investment in strategic initiatives.
7. Maintain an up-to-date inventory of government funding opportunities, integrating these into annual planning processes to maximize funding potential.
8. Organize and host government and partner announcements, facility tours, and events to showcase YMCA programming, facilities, and impact.
9. Conduct research, draft briefing notes, and author white papers to distill complex issues and articulate YMCA positions clearly and persuasively.
10. Develop and execute a comprehensive community relations strategy that enhances the YMCA's reputation and aligns with government relations priorities.
11. Lead relationships with key government agencies and community organizations, such as Calgary Economic Development, the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, the Non-profit Chamber, Sport Calgary, United Way of Calgary, etc.
12. Partner with YMCA Canada's Resource Development Centre to identify shared priorities and collaborate on initiatives, providing strategic feedback and guidance.
13. Provide proactive media relations support, participate in an on-call emergency response rotation, and manage issues tracking.
14. Perform other duties as assigned to support the organization's mission and goals.

What qualities do we look for in YMCA Calgary Staff and Volunteers?

Our diverse team of staff and volunteers are committed to making a positive impact in the community. In addition, they model and are committed to the following competencies:

1. Developing Self and Others: Developing people with a view toward present and future capacity.
2. Building Purposeful Relationships: Relating to people authentically with their best in mind.
3. Creating a Culture of Community: Gathering people to purpose and vision.
4. Making Intentional Impact: Intending to make a difference every day.
5. Thinking and Acting Strategically: Applying thoughts, words, and actions in service to the vision.
6. Applying Business Acumen: Demonstrating excellence in technical skills and stewarding the YMCA Business Model.
7. Innovating: Ability to know your environment, initiate and respond effectively to changing conditions.

Please note that evidence of a clear Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector Search is a requirement

YMCA Calgary is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants must have legal authorization to work in Canada by way of Canadian Citizenship, Permanent Residency, or a valid Canadian work permit. YMCA Calgary is currently not engaged in international recruitment efforts as we are required to demonstrate that we have exhausted all means of recruitment both locally and nationally.

Potential candidates will only be contacted if selected for an interview. This posting will close when a suitable candidate is found.

All applications are to be submitted online but for any position-specific concerns or questions, please email careers@ymcacalgary.org.