Vice-President, Legislative Affairs, Ontario

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is Canada’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to creating and fostering a conducive environment for business and championing small businesses nationally to thrive. With nearly 100,000 members, CFIB is a nonpartisan organization advocating for small businesses with politicians and decision-makers nationwide. CFIB influences public policy based on its members' views, ensuring they have a voice in the laws and policies affecting their business.

CFIB seeks a Vice President, Legislative Affairs, Ontario who will contribute to shaping the legislative affairs agenda by developing and implementing lobbying strategies that drive change with the Ontario provincial government policies to benefit small and mid-size businesses within Ontario. Reporting to the Executive Vice President, Advocacy, the Vice President, Legislative Affairs, Ontario (VP), will work with the local, regional, and national teams and identify and develop Ontario membership positions on public policy issues and formulate appropriate strategies to address these issues.

Key Priorities

As a regional spokesperson for CFIB, the VP performs the following duties.

• Meet regularly with provincial government officials and other relevant stakeholders to promote the membership’s concerns and to influence Ontario government policy and legislation;
• Lead lobbying efforts by administering and presenting research reports, survey results, and other pertinent information;
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Ontario legislative team and manage, develop, coach, and mentor policy analysts and directors;
• Help build the membership base by working with the regional sales team to promote the organization and encourage membership growth;
• Communicate the position of the CFIB within the public domain by serving as a spokesperson, speaking at business events, writing press releases and op-eds, and using social media;
• Work closely with colleagues across the country to ensure alignment with national strategies; 
• Develop and manage the operating budget and oversee Ontario legislative human resource requirements;
• Work closely with the sales team to develop plans to support membership growth and participate in regional sales meetings as required; and
• Maintain a strong commitment to the organization’s values and objectives.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is an action-oriented and seasoned professional with a passion for assisting small and midsize Canadian businesses to realize their full potential. With excellent communication skills and political savvy, they have a proven ability to navigate the various channels of government, objectively evaluate and assess fiscal policies, and positively influence decision-makers. They have made a significant contribution to the success of organizations in previous roles and have a solid track record of motivating teams.

The VP possesses strong interpersonal and diplomatic skills and knows how and when to achieve consensus. They draw upon established networks, inspire confidence and trust, and ensure integrity and transparency in all their activities and responsibilities. Highly respected and well-regarded by their peers, the ideal candidate is keen to contribute to the overall strategy and direction of one of Canada’s most influential business associations with 400 staff nationally.

Experience and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in economics, public policy, political science or equivalent degree
• At least 7 years of experience in political/public policy, research and/or communications with a strong understanding of the small business environment coupled with experience in a management role
• Small-business exposure with focus on government policy
• Demonstrated ability to excel in high-pressure environments, managing multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines effectively
• Ability to present complex data to a mixed audience in formal presentations with specific objectives to influence policy direction.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a team
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Bilingualism (French/English) would be a key asset

How to Apply

To fill this position, CFIB has partnered with executive search firm KBRS.  If you are interested in pursuing this exciting opportunity, please apply online here.  If you require additional information, please contact Bola Moradeyo at bmoradeyo@kbrs.ca.

Diversity and Accessibility Statement

CFIB is committed to being an organization where diversity and different perspectives are valued. They strive to be an organization that is inclusive, supportive, and reflective of the communities and organizations they serve and encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of a traditionally marginalized community.

KBRS will provide support in its recruitment processes to applicants with disabilities, including accommodation that considers an applicant’s accessibility needs. If you require accommodation to participate as a candidate in the recruitment process, please contact accommodate@kbrs.ca or communicate your needs to our team.