Director of Advocacy & Communications (Regina, SK)

Organization: SARM (Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities)
Position: Director of Advocacy & Communications
Status: Full Time
Reporting to: Executive Director
Direct Reports: Manager, Advocacy and Manager, Strategic Communications

OVERVIEW
SARM (Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities) is looking for a Director of Advocacy and Communications. This senior leadership role, reporting to the Executive Director, provides leadership and strategic direction around all policy, communication, marketing and advocacy initiatives. As a member of the senior leadership team this role provides leadership to the entire SARM team while supporting the Executive Director and Board. This role operates at a strategic level with an operational focus, and a member drive view towards outcomes.

RESPONSIBILITIES
To be successful in this role you will bring a broad mix of experience as a leader with considerable expertise in communications, policy, advocacy, human resources, governance and strategy. Specifically, you will communicate, advise, and provide strategic direction to each of your direct reports. Provide coaching, mentorship, and performance feedback as required. Develop policies and procedures to allow staff to undertake tasks effectively and efficiently. Ensure all employees understand and adhere to SARM’s human resource and other policies. Assist leaders in understanding the strategic goals of SARM and in developing a plan to help direct staff be a part of achieve those goals. You will also be responsible for supporting the Manager’s with HR related issues. Strategically you will work with the Executive Director and Board to identify strategic initiatives, maintain and track trends and changes in rural municipalities, and identify opportunities for strategic partnerships and growth, while identifying external partners and consultants to leverage needed expertise. You will also effectively manage, develop and retain staff while maintaining and contributing to SARM’s culture. Actively participate as a member of the senior leadership team. Create and update staff and Board policies as required. Inform the Board or staff of any changes or new policies. Maintain and update the SARM Policy Manual for Board and staff. Develop briefing materials for the Board on important issues, as well as follow up on action items stemming from Board meetings and as directed by the Executive Director. Develop and maintain relationships with SARM members and external stakeholders, including local, provincial and federal levels of government.

QUALIFICATIONS
As the Director of Advocacy and Communications you will possess:

• The ability to manage competing and emergent priorities;

• The ability to manage budgets, funding and human resources effectively and efficiently;

• Analytical problem-solving and decision-making capabilities, as well as strong organizational skills;

• Exceptional communication skills, both written and oral;

• Be a positive role model and a champion of what is possible;

• The ability to build relationships inside and outside of the organization;

• A clear vision that advocates for and protects SARM’s best interests;

• Strong attention to detail and a desire for continuous learning;

• Ability to foster a culture of continuous learning.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor degree in Governance, Policy or Communications, or a combination of education and a minimum of 7 years of experience.

If you have the qualifications and are looking to work with an organization that values work life balance, as well as personal growth and development, submit your application in confidence via email to Emily Sommer at esommer@mcqueencreative.com