Government Relations Manager

The Organization

The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association ("NACCA") is dedicated to stimulating economic growth for all Indigenous people in Canada, driven by a network of over 50 Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs). Our mission is to ignite economic progress for all Indigenous communities by empowering entrepreneurs and advancing prosperity. We champion Indigenous economic development through unified representation, transparent reporting of IFI accomplishments, strategic partnerships, and targeted programs and services tailored to the specific needs of IFIs.

Why NACCA?

• Attractive compensation package with excellent benefits, including;
  • Health, Paramedical, Vision, Dental, and Employee Family Assistance Program.
  • Defined Benefits Pension Plan.
• Supportive workplace environment and benefits focused on Indigenous culture and sensitivity.
• Ongoing Professional Development.
• Scheduling to support work-life balance.
• Paid Time Off including:
  • 14 Statutory Holidays for Full-Time Employees.
  • Sick Time.
  • Competitive Vacation Time/Pay.
  • Personal Days.
  • December Holiday Period.

Position Summary

The Government Relations Manager plays a pivotal role in advancing NACCA's mission by fostering and maintaining relationships with various levels of government, Indigenous organizations, and key stakeholders. This position is responsible for ensuring that the interests of NACCA, the IFI Network, and Indigenous businesses are effectively communicated and represented within government policies, funding programs, and legislative frameworks. The Government Relations Manager will serve as NACCA's liaison with Indigenous rights holders and the Provincial and Federal governments to advocate for policies that support Indigenous business and economic development.

Key Responsibilities

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with Indigenous rights holders, government representatives, committees, and politicians at the Provincial and Federal levels.
• Represent NACCA in meetings, forums, and policy discussions with government departments, agencies, and Indigenous organizations.
• Collaborate with Indigenous stakeholders to ensure NACCA's programs meet the needs of IFIs and local Indigenous communities.
• Engage with funding bodies to increase financial support for NACCA, IFIs, and advocate for enhanced Indigenous business development programs.

Policy & Research

• Monitor legislative and policy changes impacting Indigenous business development and economic empowerment.
• Prepare briefing notes, reports, and recommendations on policy changes, funding opportunities, and legislative impacts for NACCA leadership.
• Advocate for government programs that support sustainable financial resources for Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses.

Lobbying & Government Relations

• Develop and implement lobbying strategies to influence government decisions on Indigenous business and economic development.
• Coordinate with Indigenous leadership, advocacy groups, and business organizations to present unified policy positions.
• Engage with government representatives to secure funding and policy commitments for Indigenous business initiatives.
• Lead and organize engagement events to influence government stakeholders and support NACCA's objectives.
• Foster bipartisan collaboration with elected officials and ensure compliance with the Federal Lobbying Act, including annual reporting.

Strategic Planning, Reporting & Administration

• Serve as NACCA's main contact for government relations, communicating the association's goals, challenges, and achievements.
• Respond promptly to government inquiries and information requests.
• Develop presentations, position papers, and policy briefs to communicate NACCA's stance on funding, procurement, and business/economic development.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in public administration, political science, Indigenous governance, or business administration is preferred.
• Masters degree or professional designation in public administration, political science, Indigenous governance, or business is an asset.

Experience

• 5+ years of experience in a government relations or policy advisory role with a strong focus on Indigenous government programs and processes.

Abilities, Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of government structures, budget processes, and departmental mandates at both federal and provincial levels.
• Experience advocating for policy and funding support with Indigenous communities and organizations.
• Proficient in legislative analysis, policy development, and lobbying strategies.
• Excellent communication skills, including drafting reports, policy briefs, and presentations.
• Strong relationship-building skills with government officials, Indigenous leaders, and external partners.
• Knowledge of Indigenous procurement policies, economic reconciliation, and advocating for equitable access to government funding for Indigenous businesses.
• Cultural awareness and respect for Indigenous perspectives in economic and policy development.

Primary Location: Ottawa, Ontario. NACCA operates on a hybrid work model. Remote work arrangements may be considered based on organizational needs and role responsibilities.

Preference will be given to qualified individuals of Indigenous ancestry, in accordance with Section 16.1 of the Canadian Human Rights Act and Section 24.1 of the Ontario Human Rights Code.

The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment accommodation in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. If contacted for an employment opportunity or interviewing, please advise if you require accommodation.