Senior Policy Advisor

CADSI is seeking an experienced, motivated and energetic public policy professional to join our dynamic team at a time of significant change. This is an exciting opportunity to build on your 12 or more years’ experience working for a trade association, the private sector, or government. The chosen candidate will lead on developing and providing analysis, advice, and advocacy linked to policies and procedures that affect Canadian defence procurements and exports from an industry-wide perspective. This role will require engagement and consensus building among the association’s membership to develop and ultimately advance policy positions with Government of Canada officials at various levels. Through this work, you will build on your understanding of how government legislation, regulations, and policies affect small, medium and large companies operating in the defence and security industry. This role will work closely with other cross-functional teams within CADSI to ensure consistent, professional member value delivery. Informal and formal leadership within the organization are expected. Above all, CADSI values a willingness to learn and adapt. You’ll have ample opportunity to drive your professional development by exploring new tools, and working alongside a collaborative team committed to continuous growth.Core ResponsibilitiesRepresent CADSI by building and maintaining effective relationships with CADSI members, internal/external stakeholders, and government officials, including at the executive level, in accordance with the Lobbying Act. Create and manage member engagement processes (e.g. including organizing all aspects of workshops, meetings, working groups, webinars, and research projects) that obtain the industry expertise and insights required to formulate industry views and, where possible, build industry consensus.Provide sound strategic and technical policy analysis and advice on matters pertaining to Canadian defence procurement to CADSI’s executive team, Board of Directors and operating committees through written briefs or oral presentations.Develop, in consultation with CADSI colleagues and members, strategies and tactics on how to engage government and other stakeholders in policy development that reflects industry’s views.Provide support to CADSI’s executive team, Board of Directors, operating committees, and members, including for internal and external communications and presentations (e.g. drafting reports).Monitor, identify and develop responses to emerging policy opportunities, challenges or roadblocks.Provide support in organizing CADSI-led events and meetings (e.g. CANSEC, CAF Outlooks, Cyber and Digital Outlooks).Lead various research projects, often directing the work of outside research consultants.Potential to manage one full time equivalent staff person.Other duties as assigned, including occasional travel outside of Ottawa.Qualifications and ExperienceA post-secondary degree in a related discipline (e.g. public administration/policy, political science, economics, business administration). A graduate degree in a similar field would be an asset.12 or more years’ experience working in a trade association, the private sector, a consultancy, or government, in a role that required interaction with government and companies.Strong policy research, analysis and written/oral briefing skills.Experience leading or supporting engagement/consultation that developed consensus on complex issues.Strong project planning and implementation skills, working in a cross functional team with effective internal communications.Experience advocating or advancing policy positions with or within government. Ability to work independently and in a small team environment.Prior work with Government of Canada officials, including designated public office holders.You can set yourself apart from other candidates if you have:Knowledge of the Canadian defence or security industries and/or emerging and disruptive technologies.Knowledge of federal government procurement policies, legislation and regulations that affect defence acquisitions, economic benefits and the export of defence goods and services.An ability to communicate in both official languages. Experience in managing consultants and service providers.Compensation and BenefitsThis is a full-time, permanent position with a competitive compensation package – including a competitive salary ($90,000 - $105,000), vacation, health and wellness credits, and professional development opportunities – which will be discussed during the initial interview. CADSI offers a flexible, hybrid working arrangement with a mix of in-office and remote work, ergonomic workstations, and a supportive team culture that values teamwork and professional growth.Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and InclusionCADSI is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and accessible workplace. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women, Indigenous peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.How to ApplyTo be considered for this position, submit your application package via email to applications@defenceandsecurity.ca no later than midnight EST on Sunday November 30, 2025. Please submit one writing sample (e.g. research report, article, newsletters), along with your resume and a cover letter of no more than two pages that addresses the following points:Why you want to work for CADSIHow your background and skills ideally suit you to this positionWays in which your work experience demonstrate your results-oriented professional approachCompensation expectationsOnly applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.About CADSICADSI is the national voice of Canada’s defence, security, and emerging technology industries, representing more than 1,000 companies nationwide. These industries employ over 81,000 Canadians and generate $14.3 billion in annual revenues, with half coming from exports. Learn more at www.defenceandsecurity.ca