Vice President, Atlantic

Restaurants Canada is a national, not-for-profit member-based trade association and is the largest of its kind. It serves the unique needs of the food service industry through member programs, research, advocacy, resources and events. Its members are as diverse as the industry itself, ranging from independent operators to regional and national chains, which include restaurants, bars, caterers, hotels, institutions, food trucks, and other emerging businesses. Restaurant Canada’s members also include industry suppliers, that play an important role in operators’ success across Canada.

The Atlantic region of Canada is experiencing a culinary renaissance, with its restaurant scene thriving and expanding, fueled by a blend of traditional coastal flavours and innovative new ventures. As this evolution continues Restaurants Canada is looking for its next Vice President, Atlantic. The Vice President, Atlantic has the unique opportunity to play a lead role in proactively advocating for industry interests and shaping public policy to support the growth, success, and sustainability of the vibrant foodservice sector within the Atlantic Canadian provinces.

Key Responsibilities
Reporting to the Executive Vice President (EVP), Government Relations and Public Affairs, the Vice President, Atlantic will play an essential role in:

• Fulfilling the vision and mission of Restaurants Canada by developing and implementing strategies to influence government policy at all levels of government.

• Enhancing the profile of Restaurants Canada and the foodservice industry in Atlantic Canadian markets.
• Developing and executing a comprehensive communications and government relations strategy to deliver favorable public policy results for the restaurant industry.

• Coordinate jurisdictional advocacy on national files, drafting and presenting industry submissions to legislative bodies.

• Engaging regularly with decision-makers and mobilizing key industry partners on issues impacting the foodservice industry.

Ideal Candidate Profile
As the ideal candidate, along with a post-secondary degree in a relevant field, you possess a track record of success leading highly complex government relations, policy, or advocacy portfolios within dynamic, fast-paced environments within the non-profit, association, public or private sectors.

You have a strong understanding of legislative, regulatory, and public policy processes at municipal and provincial levels, with federal exposure being an asset. You bring a depth of experience in hands-on government relations roles marked by the ability to lead comprehensive government relations strategies, persistently advocating for the industry, driving industry interests with the government, and effectively representing the organization’s interests in various forums. With excellent written and verbal communication skills, you develop effective messaging and can engage with media and key partners seamlessly. Bilingualism in French and English is an asset. Politically savvy and diplomatic, you confidently navigate discussions with government officials, industry leaders, and the public, building consensus and fostering relationships. You work independently within a fast-paced, remote team, managing changing priorities and deadlines effectively.

How to Apply
If you are interested in being considered as a candidate for this exciting leadership opportunity, please click the "Apply Now" button below. For more information or to ask any questions, please contact Daniella Sam at dsam@kbrs.ca, Erin MacDonald at emacdonald@kbrs.ca or Katherine Risley at krisley@kbrs.ca.

Diversity and Accessibility Statement
Restaurants Canada is an equal-opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on gender, religion, race, disabilities, sexual orientation, age, or any other status. All applicants are considered based on their qualifications and merits.

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.