Job Title

Overview Shape the Future of Regulation in One of North Americas Most Dynamic Sectors The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is seeking a visionary Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) to lead enterprise-wide strategic initiatives across Ontarios complex and evolving sectors. As a key member of the Executive Committee, the CSO will guide regulatory modernization, market expansion, digital integration, and government engagement across alcohol, gaming (all verticals), retail cannabis, and horse racing markets. This is a rare opportunity to operate at the intersection of public policy, regulation, and strategy with direct influence on provincial priorities and outcomes-based regulation in multi-billion-dollar, globalized industries. About The AGCO The AGCO is an arms-length regulatory commission with a broad mandate to regulate alcohol, gaming, retail cannabis and horse racing. These industries generate tens of billions of dollars annually for the provincial economy and position Ontario as a global regulatory leader. The AGCO has led landmark initiatives including regulatory frameworks for: Liquor retail expansion Launch of iGaming and online sports betting Regulation of recreational cannabis Expansion of electronic charitable gaming Oversight of horse racing integrity, wagering, and animal welfare The organization continues to evolve rapidly and requires strong strategic leadership, political insight, and regulatory excellence. The Role Reporting to the CEO and Registrar, the Chief Strategy Officer leads a broad portfolio that includes: Strategic Policy and Market Insight Corporate Strategy, Planning and Performance Corporate Affairs and Agency Oversight Enterprise Project Management Government Relations and Accountability Freedom of Information As a trusted adviser to the CEO, Registrar, and Board, the CSO helps define AGCOs strategic direction, ensures organizational alignment, and enables informed decision-making in a fast-moving government and regulatory environment. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership and Enterprise Impact Shape and advance AGCOs corporate strategy, performance measurement, policy, regulatory agenda, and long-term priorities. Champion large-scale transformation, modernization, and change across a complex, multi-division organization. Ensure enterprise alignment as new mandates, markets, and regulatory frameworks are integrated. Lead outcomes-based planning, performance measurement, and corporate reporting. Policy, Insight and Regulatory Strategy Drive the development of integrated, evidence-based regulatory policies across all lines of business in coordination with other AGCO departments. Monitor and analyze market trends, emerging risks, and international regulatory developments. Balance public-interest objectives with economic, political, and operational realities. Lead enterprise benchmarking and performance scorecard initiatives. Government and Stakeholder Engagement Serve as AGCOs primary senior liaison with the Ministry of the Attorney General and other key ministries. Provide trusted, timely advice to senior government officials and political leadership. Navigate sensitive, high-profile issues involving ministers, MPPs, media, and international stakeholders. Lead strategic responses to agency accountability requirements, FOI requests, and government reporting. Leadership and Culture Build, lead, and inspire a high-performing, multidisciplinary team. Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, innovation, and smart risk-taking. Champion diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and inclusive leadership across the organization. The Ideal Candidate You Are a Seasoned Executive Leader With A proven ability to lead enterprise strategy, transformation, and cross-organizational change. Significant senior-level experience in government, regulation, public policy, or complex public-sector organizations with knowledge of and access to key political stakeholders. Exceptional political acuity, judgment, and stakeholder credibility. Deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, governance, and public-interest mandates. Outstanding communication, advisory, and relationship management skills. Experience managing teams and working on cross-divisional projects. Comfort managing issues and relationships in a high-profile, fast-paced, and frequently changing public sector environment. A leadership style that is inclusive, collaborative, decisive, and values-driven. A university degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Law, Economics, or Business Administration is strongly preferred. Overall knowledge of the alcohol, gaming (land-based, iGaming, cgaming, charitable, and lottery), retail cannabis, and horse racing industries is an asset. Why This Role Influence public policy and regulatory outcomes at the highest levels. Lead strategy in one of Ontarios most impactful agencies. Operate at the intersection of government, industry, and public interest. Shape the future of regulation in rapidly evolving, global markets. How To Apply To express interest in this opportunity, please submit your resume and cover letter in confidence to: Marty Greenaway, Search Consultant, Feldman Daxon Partners 416-515-3315 | [email protected] | 45 St. Clair Avenue West, Suite 700, Toronto, ON What We Offer The AGCO provides a comprehensive range of benefits and programs (subject to eligibility): Generous time-off policy, including 2 volunteer days to contribute to causes that matter to you. Defined benefit pension plans to secure your financial future. Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans, with 100% employer-paid premiums. Well-being credits to support gym memberships, therapy, financial planning, and more. Employer-paid parental leave top-up. Professional development opportunities with access to training programs, leadership resources, and reimbursement for professional memberships. 24/7 confidential support through our Employee Assistance Program. Central office location near subway access; paid onsite parking available. We are an inclusive and equal opportunity employer. The AGCO is committed to advancing racial equity and building a diverse, inclusive, accessible and respectful workplace where every employee has a voice and can contribute. Disability-related accommodation during the recruitment process is available upon request. For accommodation requests, please email [email protected] with the subject line Accommodation in Application [Position Title]. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to screen, assess, or select applicants at any stage of the hiring process. All applications will be reviewed by our Human Resources team and hiring managers. #J-18808-Ljbffr