Executive Director, Government Relations

McMaster is a university that makes an impact locally, nationally and globally through its commitment to translating research and learning into action that improves health, strengthens society and prepares the next generation of leaders and citizens. With its cutting-edge research and world-class teaching and learning, McMaster is ranked among the Top 150 universities in the world. McMaster invented problem-based learning, an innovation that transformed higher education globally, and is home to evidence-based medicine, one of the great advances of modern medicine. With over 37,000 students, more than 8,000 continuing faculty and staff, and a vibrant research enterprise, McMaster is consistently ranked among Canada’s top research universities and is recognized as a Hamilton‑Niagara Top Employer and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers.

As McMaster advances its ambitious Bolder Together strategic plan and continues to elevate its voice and influence across Canada and beyond, the University is seeking an accomplished and strategic leader to serve as its next Executive Director, Government Relations. This is an exceptional opportunity to champion institutional priorities, inform and shape public policy, and deepen McMaster's engagement with government, industry and community partners. Through strategic advocacy and relationship-building, the Executive Director will help strengthen public trust, expand the University's profile and influence, and position McMaster for continued success and impact.

Reporting to the inaugural Vice-President, Communications, the Executive Director provides leadership for McMaster's government relations, public policy, and advocacy activities. Serving as a trusted advisor to the President and senior leadership team, the Executive Director develops and executes an integrated government relations strategy that advances the University's priorities in research, innovation, education, health, infrastructure and student success. Through proactive engagement and coordination with internal constituents and external partners, the Executive Director advances McMaster’s interests with federal, provincial, and municipal governments, and provides strategic counsel on emerging political, policy, legislative, regulatory and funding developments, helping the University anticipate risks and opportunities, and strengthen its position in an evolving public policy environment. As a member of the McMaster Communications leadership team, the Executive Director helps align government relations, public affairs, issues management and institutional communications strategies in support of the University’s priorities.

The ideal candidate is an experienced government relations leader with a demonstrated track record of influencing public policy, developing and sustaining trusted relationships with government, sector, industry and community partners, building and leading high-performing teams, and advancing strategic advocacy initiatives within a complex organization. Politically astute and highly collaborative, they bring strong strategic judgment, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to navigate evolving policy environments with credibility and confidence. Experience working in or alongside the public sector is essential, while experience in post-secondary education is a significant asset.

McMaster has partnered with the leadership advisory firm Odgers for this search. Applications are encouraged online immediately and ideally by November 25, 2026. For more information or accommodations at any step of the process, please contact Julia Robarts and Krutika Hotwani at [email protected]. This posting is for an existing position.

The University seeks qualified candidates who share their commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially welcomes applications from Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

How To Apply

To apply for this job, please submit your application online.