Director of Public Affairs

### The Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA)

The Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) is a national profession-based healthcare association representing over 8000 chiropractors across Canada. The association works closely with the 10 provincial associations to promote the profession and build strong relationships with provincial and federal governments to ensure the growth and recognition of the profession in the healthcare system. We are a dynamic, innovative association that strives to create new opportunities for our members, and we value diversity and work to ensure our workplace is equitable and inclusive.

### Positive Overview

Reporting to the CEO and as a member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT), the Director of Public Affairs provides strategic leadership to the development and execution of the CCA’s agenda for building advocacy capacity and advancing the interests of the profession. Leading and collaborating with a strong Public Affairs team, this includes developing, implementing and ensuring the ongoing delivery of effective government and insurance stakeholder relations programs that advance the CCA’s strategic objectives and build awareness and reputation within key public and private sector stakeholders.

The Director contributes to establishing and achieving strategic objectives and goals and works collaboratively with ELT on communication efforts and issues management internally and externally in support of policy and advocacy objectives. The Director provides advice and counsel to the CEO, as required.

As a leader, the Director proactively seeks opportunities to support the success of the organization, and contribute to a positive working environment, engaged membership and a positive member experience.

### Direct Report(s)

– Senior Manager of Policy
– Manager of Government Relations
– Contract Consultant or Advisors
– Public Affairs Intern

### Key Responsibilities

#### Advocacy (50%)

– Provide strategic leadership to advance progressive healthcare policies and achieve the CCA’s advocacy objectives.
– Develop our research and analysis capacity to ensure a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the profession.
– Ensure analysis and learnings are integrated into advocacy initiatives and programs.
– Develop materials and presentations that advance the positive role chiropractors can play within extended health benefits and group insurance.
– Develop government submissions to forward the agenda of the profession nationally.
– Oversee and deliver strategic initiatives to help the profession reach its potential.
– Lead and participate in advocacy efforts that bolster the chiropractic profession and are aligned with the CCA’s strategic objectives.
– Lead initiatives that demonstrate positive impact of chiropractic and advocate for the enhanced funding of chiropractic with the insurance sector.
– Participate in and coordinate key public affairs campaigns in conjunction with the CEO to reach broad audiences and forward the advocacy agenda of the profession. This includes engaging and supporting members through grassroots advocacy initiatives.
– Participate in strategic planning and organizational initiatives as a member of the ELT.

#### Government, Stakeholder and Media Relations (15%)

– In collaboration with the Director of Communications, engage media outlets to promote key messaging that positively positions the profession.
– Support the direction of the CEO in developing and managing all crisis and issues communications.
– Be aware of the key issues that are being reported in the media that are affecting or have implications for the profession.
– Provide support to provincial associations on issues related to insurance and government advocacy and support their efforts to advance the profession.
– Participate in interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities and build effective working relationships with stakeholders within the health sector and government to position the profession as a major contributor to the health of Canadians.
– In conjunction with the CEO, lead the development and implementation of communication efforts and issues management internally and externally in support of advocacy objectives.

#### Organizational Leadership (15%)

– In collaboration with senior staff, team members, colleagues across the Association and other stakeholders, to contribute to and maintain a strategic perspective in organizational direction, program and services.
– Participate as a member of the senior team in shared leadership and decision-making ensuring the overall health and vitality of the CCA.
– As a member of the senior management team help ensure that the CCA Vision, Mission and Values are relevant, alive and practiced throughout the organization.
– Develop and coordinate means to seek regular input from the CCA’s key constituencies regarding the quality of programs and services and the CCA’s relevance.
– Participate in developing and administering policies and practices to ensure the integrity of the CCA and compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.
– Act as an internal consultant to bring attention and solutions to institutional priorities.
– Contribute to and promote a positive working environment and a high-functioning senior management team that delivers an excellent member experience.

#### Team Leadership (10%)

– Inspire, motivate and lead direct reports facilitating innovation, collaboration and excellence.
– Recruit, train, supervise, mentor, appraise and develop a high-performing team, ensuring ongoing feedback, performance management and opportunities for growth and development.
– Collaborate with other departments and colleagues as part of cross-functional teams and help facilitate their success across the organization.

#### Planning and Budgeting (10%)

– Ensure the goals related to advocacy and public affairs are achieved in support of the CCA’s Vision, Mission, Goals and financial objectives.
– Ensure that evaluation systems are in place related to these goals and objectives and report on the progress of goals to the CEO and Board.
– Develop short- and long-term plans and budgets for public affairs and advocacy activities. This includes monitoring progress, assuring adherence to plans and evaluating the performance and outcomes.
– Recommend short- and long-term CCA goals and objectives to the CEO.
– Develop, implement and monitor systems and procedures necessary to the smooth operation of the public affairs function.
– Keep informed of best practices and trends in the chiropractic and health sector and the specific business of the CCA and leverage knowledge and expertise in the service of innovation and strategic leadership.

### Qualifications & Relevant Skills

– A university degree in a related field (public policy, social sciences, public or business administration, or other related disciplines) is required, with a master’s degree preferred or post-graduate diploma/degree.
– CAE Designation preferred.
– 7-10+ years of experience at a senior management level.
– Minimum of 5 years of experience in government relations and advocacy.
– Strong knowledge of best practices for membership associations and not-for-profits.
– Demonstrated experience in developing, executing, and managing programs and initiatives across various teams.
– Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement, advocacy and government relations.
– Understanding of Canada’s political system(s) both federally and provincially, including legislative, executive and judicial branches.
– Must be fully compliant to act as a lobbyist under the Federal Accountability Act.
– Strong communication and interpersonal skills – writing, presenting.
– Effective presentation skills with ability to engage diverse audiences.
– Superior leadership skills – inspire, coach, mentor, motivate.
– Work effectively with stakeholders and partners.
– French language competency is an asset.

### Salary Hiring Range

$100,000 – $110,000 commensurate with experience.

The CCA is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable environment where all those participating in the organization are valued for their differences. We encourage and welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including applicants from all cultures and backgrounds, racialized communities, indigenous communities, diverse sexual and gender identities, various religious backgrounds, women and those with disabilities. We are committed to a selection process and work environment that is inclusive and barrier-free. We encourage applicants to self-identify if they wish to do so.

The CCA acknowledges the enduring and vibrant presence, culture, history and inherent rights of First Nations people, Métis and Inuit across Canada on whose traditional territories CCA members live and work, as well as where the CCA has its head office in Toronto.

### How to Apply

To apply for the position, click on this link: [DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS]. Please attach a cover letter and portfolio along with your resume. The CCA offers a comprehensive group benefits package and hybrid work environment. We thank you for your interest in working at the CCA.