Job Description

Inclusion Canada is a national federation working to advance the full inclusion and human rights of people with an intellectual disability and their families. Inclusion Canada drives social change by strengthening families, defending rights, and transforming communities into places where everyone belongs. We invite you to join a dynamic and committed team passionate about social justice and inclusion.

Inclusion Canada is currently recruiting for a

Director, Government Relations

. This is a fulltime permanent position reporting to the Executive Director, Legal & Public Affairs. The Director, Government Relations guides the organization's engagement with federal policymakers, shapes public policy positions, and ensures that disability rights are prioritized across legislative agendas. This is an excellent opportunity to work for a national organization leading a social change movement, using research and stories to change lives and defend rights. If you're an external-facing leader and internal policy strategist who's passionate about inclusion, we want to meet with you.

Inclusion Canada employs a team that is distributed across Canada. The Director, Government Relations position is based out of our Ottawa, Ontario office. In-person work in Ottawa is required when the Senate and House are sitting; the option for remote work is available outside of those times.

Duties & Responsibilities

Lead the design and implementation of federal government relations strategies

Coordinate policy submissions, legislative briefs, and responses to consultations

Establish and maintain effective relationships with federal MPs, Senators, and other senior officials to advance Inclusion Canada's policy agenda

Represent Inclusion Canada in political meetings, government consultations, and policy roundtables, as appropriate

Monitor federal policy developments and provide timely analysis to the senior leadership team to guide our advocacy efforts

Build coalitions with allied organizations and national networks to amplify collective influence

Contribute to policy-oriented communications, including public campaigns, position statements, and advocacy tools

Advise on and participate in the government relations components of national campaigns on housing, education, employment, and human rights for people with disabilities

Support the CEO, Board, and senior leaders in preparing for political engagements and public advocacy

Competencies

A passion for social justice and equity issues, including the inclusion movement

Attention to detail, strong follow-through, and the ability to remain organized and responsive to immediate needs while assessing action on long-term strategies

Ability to translate complex policy issues into clear, compelling messages tailored to political, public, and internal audiences

Builds and sustains effective relationships with senior government officials, political staff, and advocacy partners to influence public policy outcomes

Applies frameworks to ensure advocacy is inclusive, equitable, and grounded in lived experience

Anticipates and responds strategically to shifts in the political landscape, identifying opportunities and risks for the organization's agenda

Knowledge of the social justice sector, and particularly the disability sector, considered an asset

Qualifications

Post-secondary education or an equivalent combination of education and experience in political science, law, public policy, or related discipline

Demonstrated experience in government relations or public policy advocacy, with a focus on human rights or disability

Deep understanding of Canadian Federal government, parliamentary procedure, and policy development, and Familiarity with international human rights frameworks like the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Demonstrated track record of shaping legislative or policy outcomes

Demonstrated ability to effectively apply a balanced approach between strategic visioning and operational excellence

Excellent writing, analytical, communication, and computer skills

Ability to work independently while maintaining a consistent and impactful Ottawa presence

Verbal and written skills in both official languages (English and French) an asset

Application Process

Anticipated start date: January 12th 2026, with flexibility

Location: Ottawa, ON

Details: 35hrs/week with comprehensive benefits

Salary range: $94,000 - $114,000 annually depending on experience

Benefits: Competitive health and dental benefits available following successful probationary period, generous vacation policy, and progressive workplace culture

Qualified applicants should forward a

cover letter

and

resume

no later than

5:00 pm EST, November 14th

to:

Inclusion Canada

Attention: Kurt Goddard, Executive Director, Legal & Public Affairs

By email: hr@inclusioncanada.ca

At Inclusion Canada you are partof a passionate national movement advancing inclusion and human rights. You will work alongside a collaborative, values-driven team committed to social impact, while enjoying flexible work arrangements and a supportive work culture that celebrates innovation and purpose. If you're ready to make a meaningful difference and help shape a more inclusive Canada, we'd love to hear from you.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and the Canadian Human Rights Code. Inclusion Canada will provide accommodation throughout the recruitment and selection process to applicants with disabilities.

If you require an accommodation, please let us know and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Inclusion Canada supports diversity, equity, and a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We are striving to foster an inclusive environment and value diversity of lived experience and perspectives. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $94,000.00-$114,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental care Employee assistance program Extended health care Life insurance Paid time off RRSP match Vision care
Location:

Ottawa, ON K1P 5G4 (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Ottawa, ON K1P 5G4