Exciting Opportunity – Policy Advisor for the Prairies Region, Manitoba, Canada
Discover an exciting opportunity to become the Policy Advisor for the Prairies Region in Manitoba, Canada. In this pivotal role, you’ll play a crucial part in advancing conservation efforts and enhancing government relations, making a meaningful impact on sustainable development in the region. Join us in shaping a brighter future for the Prairies!
Office Location for the Police Advisor Role
- Location: Based in Manitoba, Canada
- Flexibility within the Canadian Prairies
- Preference for candidates from Manitoba
- Possible relocation assistance
- Candidates must be authorized to work in Canada
About the United Nations
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945. It consists of 193 member states and focuses on promoting peace, security, and cooperation. Additionally, the UN addresses global challenges through diplomacy and sustainable development.
Its key areas include conflict resolution, humanitarian assistance, human rights, and environmental sustainability. Moreover, the UN operates through specialized agencies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNESCO.
Furthermore, the UN sets international standards and norms. It fosters collaboration on issues such as climate change, poverty reduction, and equality. Ultimately, by engaging member states and civil society, the UN aims to create a more just and equitable world for everyone.
The United Nations’ Commitment to Inclusion
The United Nations (UN) strives to create an inclusive work environment. This ensures that all staff members feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions are valued. The UN recognizes that achieving its mission requires a diverse workforce that reflects the communities it serves.
In addition to the qualifications in job postings, the UN values talents and experiences beyond traditional roles. A mix of diverse experiences and skills, along with passion, is essential for fostering innovation and a culture of inclusion.
The UN encourages potential policy advisor candidates to apply and welcomes diverse voices. Many staff members emphasize, “you’ll join for our mission, and you’ll stay for our people,” highlighting the supportive community within the organization.
Role of the Policy Advisor
The Policy Advisor for the Prairies Region at Nature United plays a crucial role in enhancing government relations in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, with plans to expand into Alberta. This position is essential for advancing the organization’s conservation goals through effective public policy and funding.
Conservation Goals
Nature United’s 2030 conservation goals focus on several key areas, including Natural Climate Solutions, Indigenous leadership, conservation financing, and improved natural resource management. A specific priority in the Prairies is to support farmers and producers in adopting regenerative and climate-smart agricultural practices. These practices are vital for promoting sustainable development in the region.
Responsibilities and Collaboration for the Policy Advisor
In this role, the Policy Advisor reports to the Director of Strategic Partnerships. They collaborate closely with various programs, such as Conservation, Natural Climate Solutions, Agriculture, and Communications & Marketing. Key responsibilities include identifying policy barriers and opportunities, leading efforts to influence public policies and funding, and participating in government consultations to provide expert insights for policy development.
Building Relationships
Building strong relationships with bureaucratic and political leaders is a fundamental aspect of the Policy Advisor’s work. They facilitate Nature United’s engagement with government officials and political leaders, ensuring the organization’s goals are effectively communicated. Additionally, the Policy Advisor collaborates with partners, including Indigenous governments, private sector entities, and NGOs, to influence policy and funding decisions. This includes managing lobbying activities and creating materials for effective communication with governments, Indigenous communities, corporations, NGOs, and the public.
Commitment to Indigenous Partnerships
Nature United is dedicated to partnering with Indigenous communities to enhance their authority in managing lands and waters. The Policy Advisor ensures that all engagements with provincial and municipal governments align with a rights-based approach and adhere to the Principles of Government Relations. This collaborative effort involves working closely with Indigenous communities, industry sectors, governments, and civic organizations to achieve shared conservation goals, ultimately contributing to the broader mission of the UN.
Responsibilities and Scope
Build Partnerships:
- Maintain regular contact with provincial and municipal governments.
- Cultivate respectful relationships with political leaders across all parties.
- Additionally, engage with Indigenous governments, NGOs, and the private sector to strengthen collaboration.
- Ultimately, leverage these partnerships to effectively influence policy and funding decisions.
Advocate for Legislation:
- Actively engage with political leaders to promote specific legislative initiatives.
- Moreover, advocate for regulations, policies, and programs that align with Nature United’s mission.
- Prepare presentations and position papers to support these advocacy efforts.
Analyze Existing Policies:
- Conduct thorough reviews of current legislation and regulations.
- Assess funding conditions and their impact on conservation goals.
- Consequently, provide actionable recommendations to enhance these legislative frameworks.
- Ensure that your analysis supports priorities like Natural Climate Solutions and sustainable agriculture.
Develop and Implement Strategies:
- Collaborate with colleagues to create effective government relations strategies.
- Lead initiatives to establish clear positions on various policy proposals.
- Additionally, draft communications for stakeholders, including government officials and the public.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies over time.
Support Team Engagement:
- Assist team members in their interactions with government officials.
- Prepare meeting briefs and talking points to ensure clarity in communication.
- Furthermore, organize and facilitate meetings to enhance engagement with political leaders.
- Provide constructive feedback and support to colleagues during discussions.
Ensure Policy Coherence:
- Work closely with colleagues to align efforts across different levels of government.
- Maintain coherence in policy influencing activities at both the federal level and in provinces and territories.
- Share insights and best practices to enhance overall effectiveness.
Manage Lobbying Efforts:
- Oversee lobbying registrations and communications for Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.
- Ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations.
- Additionally, track lobbying activities and prepare reports as required.
Make Informed Decisions:
- Utilize analysis and contextual understanding to inform decision-making.
- Anticipate potential risks associated with policy changes and provide proactive advice.
- Collaborate with team members to assess the impact of decisions on conservation goals.
Supervise and Manage Contracts:
- Potentially supervise staff to enhance team effectiveness and cohesion.
- Manage large contracts to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
- Monitor contract performance and ensure compliance with terms.
Pursue Professional Development:
- Engage in ongoing skill-building opportunities related to government relations and policy.
- Attend workshops and conferences to stay updated on best practices.
- Seek mentorship and networking opportunities to enhance your professional growth.
Travel Requirements:
- Be prepared for travel commitments of 25-50% over time.
- This travel will facilitate critical engagements with stakeholders and support initiatives.
- Finally, plan and coordinate travel logistics to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.
What the UN is Looking For
The United Nations seeks passionate individuals who want to make a difference in the world. They look for dedicated professionals committed to the principles of peace, security, and human rights. Ideal candidates demonstrate strong leadership skills, effective communication abilities, and a collaborative spirit.
Additionally, the UN values diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. They seek adaptable and innovative individuals capable of addressing complex global challenges.
Moreover, the UN emphasizes integrity and ethical behavior in all operations. Candidates should understand international relations and thrive in multicultural environments.
Overall, the UN aims to build a team that reflects its commitment to serving humanity and promoting sustainable development across the globe.
What You’ll Bring
Minimum Qualifications
- A relevant degree and at least 4 years of experience in provincial or territorial government relations or policy, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Experience in presenting to or communicating with business, government, or political staff and program leadership.
- Proven ability to design, implement, and manage multiple complex projects while ensuring program accountability.
- Experience in preparing and presenting project proposals, along with developing written materials for diverse audiences.
- Background in collaborating with corporate or NGO partners and government agencies.
- Experience managing a team, particularly one without direct reports, while providing inspiring and supportive leadership.
Desired Qualifications
- Understanding of the policy, political, and financial landscape related to climate actions, land-use decisions, agriculture, conservation programs, and Indigenous rights in Canada.
- Expertise in land-use policy, climate change policy, and/or Indigenous rights specific to Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and/or Alberta.
- Experience working with governments in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and/or Alberta.
- Ability to engage effectively with Indigenous governments and communities.
- Proven success in developing coalitions of partners across various organizational interests to achieve shared goals.
- Experience in shifting policies at one level of government and/or leading policy campaigns.
- Experience negotiating complex agreements with government or business stakeholders.
Applications are particularly encouraged from women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, individuals with disabilities, and other equity-deserving groups. In addition, diversity in backgrounds, experiences, knowledge, and identities is highly valued. Thus individuals with unique perspectives are strongly invited to apply, as their contributions enrich our organization and foster an inclusive environment.
What Nature United Offers
A comprehensive benefits package includes healthcare benefits, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, and an employee assistance program. Additionally, more details about these benefits can be found in the Culture Tab on nature.org/careers.
The organization also prioritizes a supportive work environment. This approach ensures that the health, well-being, and flexibility needs of employees are effectively addressed, allowing them to thrive both personally and professionally.
Salary Information
The estimated starting salary for this position depends on experience, qualifications, and location. The salary range in the Prairie Provinces is CAD 99,000−99,000 – 99,000−106,000 annually.
Apply Now
To apply for job ID 56238, submit a cover letter and resume online by clicking the Apply Now button at [https://careers.nature.org/] by 11:59 PM EST on February 23, 2025.
For assistance with the application process, visit the recruitment page or contact applyhelp@tnc.org.
Nature United is committed to providing accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans during the job application process. Therefore, for assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please email applyhelp@tnc.org with “Request for Accommodation” in the subject line.
