Job Title

Who we are?The pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (pCPA) brings together provincial, territorial, and federal governments for the purpose of increasing and managing access to clinically relevant and cost-effective medicines. Through collective negotiations, the pCPA has realized overall savings (as of April 1, 2024) for governments of $3.72 billion annually for brand name drugs and $914 million annually for generic drugs totaling $4.63 billion annually. Ten years after its creation and supported by a new strategic plan launched in April 2022 the pCPA is now evolving into a more formal organization with a new governance model, an expanded staffing structure and improved decision-making processes. About the roleThe director, Partner Relations is accountable to the executive director, Communications, by working to maintain and elevate the pCPAs profile, reputation and influence with partner organizations, governments, associations and other stakeholders within the Canadian pharmaceutical ecosystem.This role establishes and oversees the strategic planning and operational requirements of the pCPAs stakeholder relations function. The director leads the development, execution and evaluation of initiatives that align with the organizations mandate and objectives. This role requires a blend of strategic thinking, public policy and public affairs expertise, and stakeholder engagement acumen.The ideal candidate has 5+ years of experience in senior leadership roles in public affairs and engagement; experience in managing teams and portfolios required. They possess a comprehensive understanding of Canadian public policy and the healthcare landscape and a thorough knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes.Candidates have a degree in public affairs, public policy, political science, communications or a related field. Specific deliverables and authoritiesPublic affairsLeads and executes public affairs strategies in alignment with organizational goals.Identifies, analyses and monitors relevant public policy, legislative and political issues and initiatives that could impact the Canadian pharmaceutical ecosystem.Provides counsel and advice to the leadership team and Board of Directors.Leads and oversees the development of a range of products and compelling narratives (speaking notes, briefing materials, presentations, reports, campaigns, etc.), working in conjunction with relevant divisions.Fosters and maintains relationships with key stakeholders, decision-makers and opinion leaders, including partner organizations and governments (federal, provincial, territorial).Represents the organization in different settings (hearings, meetings, etc.).Assists the executive director, Communications, with the development and execution of special projects.Stakeholder engagementLeads and oversees the development of stakeholder engagement strategies, plans and activities (events, consultations, communications, etc.) in alignment with organizational goals.Promotes a better understanding of the pCPAs role and impact.Fosters and maintains relationships with a variety of stakeholder groups.Work and liaise with stakeholders across Canada, including internal and external groups, to provide advice, input and information on projects.Translate complex processes, systems and issues into easy-to-understand messages that resonate with stakeholders.Issue managementProvides ongoing analysis of public and stakeholder opinion and sentiment concerning the organization and its activities.Anticipates and prepares for potential issues and emerging trends.Proactively and reactively leads and oversees the development, execution and evaluation of timely issue management and risk mitigation strategies.Collaborates with the communications team to develop and manage public messaging and media relations strategies.Portfolio and team managementEstablishes the priorities for the portfolio.Leads or supports budget planning for stakeholder relations activities.Supervises direct reports, consultants and independent contractors.Establishes priorities of work assignments, monitors progress, reviews products and ensures products are delivered in a timely matter. Hires, trains and evaluates direct reports.AccountabilityAccountable to the executive director, Communications.QualificationsEducation and experiencePost-secondary education in public affairs, public policy, political science, communications or a related field5+ years of experience in senior leadership roles in public affairs and engagement; experience in managing teams and portfolios requiredDemonstrated experience in building integrated and strategic stakeholder relations plansSkills and abilities Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in EnglishExceptional written and verbal communication skills in French (asset)Demonstrated ability to engage with a wide variety of stakeholders (including government officials, decision-makers and opinion leaders) and build meaningful mutually benefiting relationshipsDeep understanding of the Canadian public policy and healthcare landscapeDeep understanding of legislative and regulatory processesEffective communicator with expertise in cooperation, issues management, and prioritization.Strategic thinker anticipating needs and contributing to service development.Creative problem solver, aligning decisions with leadership and industry standards.Expert in team coordination, work allocation, and financial management.Proficient in planning and managing large, complex projects.Strong business and digital acumenEmployment termsThe hiring salary range for this full-time permanent position is $135,000 - $155,000. This range reflects the salary for candidates with varying experience levels, job knowledge and qualifications relevant to the position. Specific offers will be based on individual backgrounds and qualifications.pCPA also provides the employees with a comprehensive group benefits package from their first day of employment.The ideal candidate must be legally eligible to work in Canada and can work from any location within Canada. If you are interested in this position, please submit your resume and cover letter in one PDF document, using the naming convention Name, Last NameDirector, Partner Relations to the manager, HR and Office Administration, at hr@pcpacorp.ca by the end of Friday, April 11, 2025. We thank all interested people; however, only those chosen for further consideration will be contacted. The pCPA is an equal-opportunity employer. In accordance with the Accessible Canada Act, 2019, and all applicable provincial accessibility standards, the pCPA will provide accommodation for applicants with disabilities upon request throughout the recruitment, selection, and/or assessment process.