Government Relations & Advocacy

Location: Canada (Remote/Virtual board) Employment Type: Board Member 

About Us

The Syrian Canadian Foundation (SCF) was established in 2016 to support the resettlement of Syrian refugees in Canada. Since then, it has grown into a national charitable organization dedicated to empowering refugees and newcomers from diverse backgrounds.

SCF’s mission is to help refugees and newcomers thrive in Canada through innovative, community-driven programs built on three key pillars: language training, skills development, and well-being. By working collaboratively with community members, public and private partners, and other organizations, SCF strives to ensure that everyone — regardless of their background — has the opportunity to grow, contribute, and lead in Canada.

The Role

The Government Relations & Advocacy Board Member plays a vital role in advancing SCF’s voice in public policy and strengthening its relationships with government stakeholders. This role is ideal for someone with experience in government, politics, or policy development who can offer strategic advice on advocacy efforts, public funding opportunities, and relationship-building with elected officials and public institutions.

Your insight will help SCF shape policy discussions, influence systems, and unlock resources that support refugees and newcomers across Canada.

Key Responsibilities

Government Engagement & Relationship Building

• Support SCF in strengthening and maintaining relationships with elected officials, ministries, and public servants

• Open doors to key contacts in municipal, provincial, and federal governments

• Provide strategic advice on how to position SCF within policy conversations or public consultations

Advocacy Strategy & Messaging

• Advise on the development of SCF’s advocacy priorities, campaigns, and messaging

• Assist in preparing or reviewing letters, briefs, or statements to government

• Help identify opportunities to contribute to policy discussions or join coalitions on refugee and newcomer issues

Public Funding & Strategic Alignment

• Offer guidance on government funding streams, calls for proposals, and grant alignment

• Support the team in framing proposals or aligning programs with government priorities

• Help identify emerging policy trends or risks that could affect SCF’s work

Qualifications

We’re seeking a board member who brings:

• Experience in public policy, government relations, political advisory, or a related field

• Strong understanding of government processes and public sector funding mechanisms

• A well-established network in municipal, provincial, or federal government circles

• A commitment to refugee/newcomer inclusion, equity, and systems-level change

• Comfort advising on sensitive or strategic advocacy issues

Time Commitment

• Attend virtual quarterly board meetings (90 minutes)

• Contribute 1–2 hours/month advising on government engagement, strategy, or reviewing advocacy materials

• Occasional participation in government meetings, public consultations, or advocacy events as needed

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience: https://syriancanadianfoundation.ca/government-relations-advocacy-syrian-canadian-foundation/#Government-Relations-popup

SCF is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those who identify as part of underrepresented communities. If you require accommodations at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know, we’re here to support you.