Job Title

A unique contract opportunity for a seasoned government relations professional to lead high-impact advocacy in Canadas pension/ financial services sector.Association and Events Management International (AEMI) is a leading provider of management services to associations. With assistance from The Portage Group, AEMI is currently seeking a Manager, Government & Stakeholder Relations. The Manager will support one of AEMIs major clients, the Pension Investment Association of Canada (PIAC), a national organization representing senior leaders in the financial services and pension sector.This is a one-year contract engagement (commencing June 2026), designed for an experienced government relations practitioner who can operate with independence, judgment, and strategic insight. While all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, this opportunity may be particularly well suited to a semi-retired practitioner, former government staffer, or established consultant seeking a meaningful, near full-time mandate.The OpportunityReporting to the PIAC Executive Director and working closely with the Board of Directors, you will lead PIACs advocacy and government relations function. You will work closely with subject matter experts in the membership in shaping and advancing policy positions, building trusted relationships with regulators and decision-makers, and ensuring PIACs voice continues to be influential, informed, and valued.This is a hands-on and strategic role, ideal for someone who enjoys both high-level advisory work and direct execution and is comfortable with varied tasks in a small team setting.Key ResponsibilitiesYou will:Lead the development and execution of PIACs advocacy and government relations strategyMonitor legislative, regulatory, and market developments impacting pensions and related public policyProvide strategic policy advice to the Executive Director and PIAC Board and committeesResearch, draft, and finalize high-quality submissions, briefing notes, and policy papersBuild and maintain relationships with regulators, policymakers, and sector stakeholdersCoordinate and support meetings with government and regulatory bodiesManage the full lifecycle of advocacy initiativesfrom enabling volunteer committees and issue identification through to Board approval and stakeholder communicationCollaborate with Board committees and volunteer leaders to advance advocacy prioritiesTrack and document advocacy activities and outcomesDevelop clear, concise communications to members (e.g., updates, bulletins, insights on budgets and policy developments)Support committee operations, including agenda development, materials, and minutesPotentially support other AEMI clientsQualifications & ExperienceThe ideal candidate brings:Experience in government relations, public affairs, or policy, gained in an association, consulting, or government setting, preferably with current or prior standing as a registered lobbyistA strong understanding of how public policy and regulation are developed, particularly at the federal government and provincial levelsExperience engaging with regulators and/or financial services or pension-related policy (an asset)Exceptional writing, synthesis, and communication skillsDemonstrated ability to build relationships and influence across diverse stakeholdersSound judgment, discretion, and the ability to operate independentlyA proactive, organized, and solutions-oriented approachWorking ArrangementThis role may be performed remotely, with the expectation of availability for regular virtual meetings and periodic in-person engagements with stakeholders and leadership (note the AEMI office is in downtown Toronto, near College and Yonge)The nature of the work requires flexibility and responsiveness to emerging policy issues and timelinesCompensationCompensation will be structured as a contract fee or salary equivalent, commensurate with experience and level of engagement (anticipated to be near full-time). The budget is $90-110,000 for the project term (one year). Please include your proposed compensation when applying.Application ProcessQualified candidates are encouraged to apply by May 19, 2026. Direct applications to:The Portage Group Attention Jack Shand, CAE, CMC, FCMCPlease submit a rsum, a brief cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience, and compensation or fee expectations. It is strongly recommended that applications be sent directly to and not rely only on the LI portal.The successful candidate will be selected by June 1. We thank all applicants for their interest. Only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.