Government Relations Advisor
Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET)
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET) is the professional regulatory body for applied science and engineering technology professionals across the province. Dedicated to public protection, ASET ensures its members uphold the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and technical competence. As a modern and forward-thinking regulator, ASET champions regulatory excellence, fosters public confidence, and supports a legislative and policy environment that reflects the dynamic needs of Alberta’s industries and communities.
ASET is currently seeking a Government Relations Advisor to support its regulatory mandate and advocacy initiatives by building relationships with government officials, monitoring legislative and policy developments, and preparing briefing materials to advance the profession’s interests. Reporting to the Senior Director, Operations, the Government Relations Advisor contributes directly to ASET’s advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and strategic communications. This is a unique opportunity to join a purpose-driven organization at a time of significant regulatory change in Alberta. The Government Relations Advisor will have a critical role in helping ASET anticipate and respond to legislative and policy developments while articulating the value of professional regulation to both government and the broader public.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate brings demonstrated experience in government relations, policy development, and strategic communications—ideally within a regulatory, association, or public sector setting. Politically astute and analytically strong, they possess excellent writing and research skills and can communicate complex policy issues into clear, influential messaging.
The ideal candidate is a confident relationship builder with sound judgment, a collaborative approach, and a high degree of professionalism. Comfortable working independently and as part of a team, they are motivated by public service and committed to strengthening the credibility and impact of professional regulation. Experience engaging with government officials, policymakers, or regulatory agencies is an asset.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Strategic Government Relations: Support the development and implementation of comprehensive government relations strategies to advance ASET's objectives. Support the development and maintenance of strategic relationships with government officials and stakeholders. Research and analyze legislative and policy developments relevant to ASET’s regulatory mandate and prepare briefing materials and advocacy content to inform and advance the organization’s government relations strategies.
- Regulatory Communication & Public Trust: Contribute to the development of communications that build public trust in ASET as a professional regulator. Highlight the organization’s commitment to public safety and regulatory enforcement through targeted content and coordinated media outreach.
- Government Advocacy for Regulatory Improvements: Assist in advancing ASET’s policy positions by preparing briefs, position papers, and submissions that advocate for legislative and regulatory improvements. Track regulatory changes affecting the profession and communicate their implications internally and externally.
- Stakeholder Engagement for Regulatory Collaboration: Help develop relationships with government bodies, regulatory partners, and industry stakeholders to enhance collaboration and the sharing of regulatory best practices. Represent ASET in discussions with policymakers, aligning messaging with ASET’s regulatory objectives.
- Public Awareness on Regulatory Standards: Support the design and delivery of public awareness initiatives that reinforce the value of professional regulation. Promote ASET’s regulatory role and standards through campaigns, public outreach, and engagement with educational and industry partners.
- Advocacy and Communications: Collaborate with the Communications team to create clear, engaging content on policy and governance topics for ASET’s audiences. Draft key communications—including briefing notes, leadership messaging, and government submissions—to support advocacy and organizational visibility.
- Media Relations: Manage media relationships to enhance ASET’s profile and public understanding. Develop press materials, monitor media coverage, and contribute to timely, professional responses to media inquiries, ensuring alignment with ASET’s communications strategy.
QUALIFICATIONS & KEY ATTRIBUTES
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Relations, Communications, or a related field (an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered)
Knowledge & Experience:
- Minimum 5 years of experience in government relations, public policy, media relations, or regulatory affairs.
- Proven experience working with government and an understanding of legislative and regulatory processes.
- Experience drafting policies, briefing notes, regulatory submissions, or legislative recommendations.
- Experience developing media materials, managing inquiries, and building relationships with media.
- Knowledge of the professional regulation landscape or the applied science and engineering technology sector is an asset.
Skills & Attributes:
- Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship Building: Builds positive relationships with diverse stakeholders and effectively navigates multi-interest environments.
- Collaborative: Works effectively with others to build trust and support shared goals through an outgoing and approachable style.
- Political Acumen: Navigates complex political environments with insight and tact; understands government processes and leverages relationships to influence policy and align advocacy efforts.
- Issues Management: Anticipates and responds to emerging political or reputational risks; provides strategic input to mitigate impact and maintain organizational credibility.
- Strategic Thinking & Problem Solving: Ability to assess complex issues, identify opportunities, and develop practical, data-informed solutions.
- Exceptional Communication: Strong writing, presentation, and interpersonal skills; diplomatic and persuasive communicator capable of building trust and influence.
- Self-Motivated: Demonstrates initiative with strong time management skills; able to prioritize and meet competing deadlines.
- Change Mindset: Open, receptive and adapts easily to changing priorities; analyzes issues from multiple perspectives to find effective solutions.
COMPENSATION
ASET offers a competitive salary range of $105,000–$120,000 annually, along with a comprehensive benefits package.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This position requires occasional availability during evenings and weekends to attend meetings and events related to government relations and stakeholder engagement.
CONTACT US
If this opportunity aligns with your interest, experience, and qualifications, we invite you to apply in confidence by sending your cover letter and current resume to Arthur Lyons at arthur[at]wmc.on.ca.
This position will remain open until filled, with an initial review of applications beginning on May 1, 2025.
Please note: Leadership assessments and background checks will be conducted as part of the selection process. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted by ASET.