THE OPPORTUNITY
We have an exciting opportunity for a Policy Analyst to join Alberta Grains and play a key role in advancing policy, advocacy, government relations, and market development initiatives that support Alberta's wheat and barley producers. Reporting to the Director, Government Relations, Policy and Markets, the Policy Analyst will conduct research and analysis on emerging and existing policy, regulatory, trade, transportation, sustainability, and market issues affecting the grain sector. The Policy Analyst will develop policy positions, briefing materials, consultation submissions, and advocacy materials that help shape the operating environment and profitability of Alberta producers.
This role offers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful policy discussions, collaborate with government and industry stakeholders, and support strategic initiatives that have a direct impact on Alberta’s grain sector. The ideal candidate is a strong researcher, analytical thinker, and exceptional writer who enjoys transforming complex information into clear, actionable recommendations.
THE ORGANIZATION
Alberta Grains is a not-for-profit, farmer-directed organization that represents the interests of and serves as the single voice for all of Alberta's wheat and barley producers. We collect mandatory but refundable check-offs and reinvest them to grow the grain industry and its profitability. The organization works collaboratively within all levels of agriculture to achieve tangible results that benefit Alberta’s grain growers.
Mission
To increase the long-term economic sustainability of Alberta's grain farmers through innovative research, market development, policy advocacy, farm business management, agronomy and extension.
Vision
To stand as the unparalleled leader and advocate for Alberta's wheat and barley farmers, Alberta Grains envisions becoming the foremost organization dedicated to advancing our members' interests, prosperity, and sustainable growth.
For more information, please visit: www.albertagrains.com.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provide policy development support including conducting policy research, analysis, developing policy positions, recommendations and documentation.
- Develop well-written documentation to support policy position development and advocacy efforts including reports, policy/issues briefs, key messages, consultation submissions, grant proposals, letters and other communications focused to government, farmers and other varied audiences.
- Work with internal (farmers, staff) and external (value-chain organizations, associations, industry) through interviews, focus groups, surveys and other means to gather feedback, insights or ensure alignment on policy recommendations.
- Establish a system for monitoring and recording relevant sources of information for emerging regulatory and legislative changes that have the potential to impact our farmer members, as well as providing support for legislative and parliamentary monitoring (i.e., Hansard, Gazette, Orders in Council, Committee meetings, etc.).
- Develop and maintain an informational database on policy information, research and statistics for use in reinforcing policy positions and for use across the organization.
- Support the formulation and implementation of advocacy action plans and communication strategies.
- Support market related studies and projects, including coordination of consultants, project timelines, deliverables, and reporting.
- Assist in project management of grant applications and reporting, consultancy projects and other external project management as required.
- Provide general support to the policy and markets team as required on policy-related files or pertaining to market related projects and analysis.
- Represent Alberta Grains at meetings, industry events, consultations, and stakeholder engagements as required.
- Assist with lobby compliance activities.
- Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, with a strong preference for a degree in political science, public policy, agricultural economics or equivalent. A post graduate degree would be considered an asset.
- Have 3-5 years of work experience in policy analysis with a strong preference for experience in the agricultural sector.
- Knowledge of agricultural policy, agricultural economics, grain markets, trade policy, or market development would be considered a strong asset.
- Superior writing skills are essential, with the ability to write in various formats for a wide-range of stakeholders.
- Experienced in conducting policy research and analysis, toward developing sound, evidenced based policy positions and recommendations.
- Knowledge of policy processes, legislative frameworks, government structures, and decision-making processes in order to support and influence policy development.
- A strong drive to work independently in an entrepreneurial environment, as well as a willingness to work as part of a team.
- Effective time management, organizational, and project planning skills, with the ability to meet deadlines.
- Flexibility and ability to understand and define key issues and solutions on a variety of emerging topics, in a dynamic work environment.
KEY COMPETENCIES
- Conducts thorough research and analysis to develop evidence based policy positions, recommendations, and strategic insights.
- Produces clear, concise, and high quality briefing notes, reports, policy papers, consultation submissions, and advocacy materials.
- Applies critical thinking and sound judgment to evaluate complex issues and develop practical, well supported solutions.
- Demonstrates an understanding of government processes, legislative frameworks, and advocacy practices to support organizational priorities.
- Demonstrates strong project management skills, effectively coordinating multiple priorities, timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder relationships.
- Builds and maintains productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders while gathering information and supporting collaboration.
- Effectively manages competing priorities, maintains attention to deadlines, and delivers high quality work in a dynamic environment.
- Demonstrates exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and consistency when analyzing information and preparing written materials.
- Works independently, exercises sound judgment, and takes initiative while maintaining accountability for outcomes.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT
SANDY JACOBSON | T: 780.944.1327| E: [email protected] | www.richardsonsearch.ca
