Director, Advocacy

hybrid
Toronto, Ontario, Canada .
full-time . June 23, 2025

Description

About IGNITE

At IGNITE Student Union (IGNITE), we value individuals that show up as their whole selves and who are as diverse, inclusive, and vibrant as our student community. IGNITE is the official student union representing more than 33,000 full-time students at Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber. To find out more about us and what we offer students, visit us here.

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment and we strongly encourage all interested candidates, regardless of their background, to submit their application. If you believe you have 75% of the requirements on the job and an attitude to learn, we want to hear from you.

In this newly created role of Director, Advocacy, you play a crucial role in shaping our advocacy agenda. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will be responsible for driving the development and execution of comprehensive advocacy initiatives that protect and advance the interests of IGNITE’s student community. This position will collaborate closely with the Manager, Advocacy, internal teams, student leaders, community partners and public sector partners in building evidence-based strategies to shape policy, mobilize support, and amplify student voices.

What you can expect in a Director, Advocacy Role at IGNITE: 

LEADERSHIP OF ADVOCACY PROGRAMS

Develop and implement an advocacy strategy that aligns with IGNITE’s mission and priorities.
Lead the design and execution of public policy campaigns and initiatives to address key student issues.
Set measurable objectives, track progress, and adjust strategies to ensure maximum impact.
Develop strategies and tools to ensure the student community is engaged in policymaking at Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber.
Coordinate with other departments to integrate advocacy messaging into broader organizational initiatives.

STAKEHOLDER RELATIONS

Develop and maintain a network of strong working relationships with a range of stakeholders, finding opportunities for collaboration.
Along with the Manager, Advocacy and the Student Advocates, represent student priorities in institutional, community and government discussions.
Establish and nurture strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations, advocacy groups, and stakeholders.
Represent IGNITE at public meetings, policy forums, conferences, and legislative sessions to advance IGNITE’s advocacy priorities
Represent IGNITE on the institution's Fee Protocol Committee
Facilitate tools, training sessions and workshops to empower student leaders and the general student community with greater advocacy skills.

RESEARCH, POLICY ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION

Conduct in-depth research on education policies, legislative changes, and emerging issues impacting students.
Prepare policy briefs, reports, and recommendations for internal and external audiences.
Monitor the legislative landscape and advise senior leadership on potential advocacy opportunities or challenges.
Develop and implement evaluation frameworks to assess advocacy impact.
Analyze trends, feedback and other related data to remain current and enhance the student experience through advocacy to both Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber
Use key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure department effectiveness and impact on organizational goals.

TEAM MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT

Oversee the execution of IGNITE’s advocacy strategies and programs in accordance with organizational goals and objectives through the selection, direct supervision and management of the Manager, Advocacy and Student Advocates
Lead and mentor advocacy staff, fostering a collaborative team environment.
Responsible for leadership and direction and overseeing the recruitment, training, and development of staff within department. 
Ensure effective performance management, including regular performance reviews and feedback for direct reports. 
Foster a positive and inclusive organizational culture by promoting teamwork, collaboration, and professional growth. 
Handle employee relations issues, conflict resolution, and ensure compliance with HR policies and procedures, ensuring the Director, People and Culture is involved in highly contentious issues (i.e. terminations, performance or disciplinary issues).   
Encourage a culture of continuous improvement by fostering new ideas and exploring opportunities for growth and development.

ORGANIZATION & STRATEGIC OVERSIGHT 

Collaborate with the CEO and Director colleagues to establish IGNITE’s overall strategic goals and objectives. 
Participate in strategic planning, budgeting, and long-term goal setting and ensure alignment of departmental objectives with organizational vision, mission, and values. 
Regularly leverage data to assess operational performance and make improvements where necessary to optimize resources and service delivery. 
Identify opportunities for process improvements and ensure timely execution of projects and initiatives. 
Work closely with the finance team to ensure budgets are adhered to, and financial reports are up-to-date and accurate. 
Ensure IGNITE EDIB Framework goals, initiatives and strategies are embedded into all work and deliverables.
Oversee the management and allocation of resources within their department, ensuring efficient use of IGNITE’s financial, human, and physical assets.

ENGAGEMENT & COMMUNICATION 

Oversee the development of clear, compelling messaging for campaigns and public communications
Organize public events and forums that drive engagement and raise awareness about student issues.
Prepare and deliver reports to the CEO and board on departmental progress, challenges, and strategic objectives. 
Collaborate with the communications team to ensure consistent messaging and effective communication both internally and externally. 
Stay informed about sector trends, emerging best practices, and technological advancements that could benefit the organization.

What competencies will you have? 

Leadership
Impact & Influence
Integrity and Trust  
Teamwork and Collaboration 
Relationship Building and Management
Good Judgment & Problem-Solving skills
Strong computer skills (Microsoft Office 365, Asana)

What IGNITE will expect from you:

Minimum 5-7 years of experience in public policy, advocacy, or related fields.
Minimum 3-5 years of management and leadership experience
Proven track record in successfully influencing policy or legislative outcomes.
Strong communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.
Bachelor's degree required; Master’s preferred in Political Science, Public Policy, or related fields or equivalent experience demonstrating strong foundations in related disciplines
Experience working in post-secondary education sector, with government agencies or the non-profit sector an asset
Advanced public policy and analytical skills, with the ability to understand institutional and government decision-making processes
Strong political insights with professional experience in policy, public affairs and government/stakeholder engagement
A strong collaborator, leveraging interpersonal skills to form effective working relationships with people at all levels of the organization
Ability to manage and co-ordinate the end-to-end development process while meeting deadlines and budget requirements
Highly effective project management skills with the capacity to drive results and meet deadlines

What you can expect from IGNITE:   

A diverse and inclusive community of belonging where team members are empowered to bring ideas to the table and act. 
An opportunity to have an impact within a student union and post-secondary institution.
A fun, collaborative environment where nothing is too small to be celebrated. 
Paid time off (PTO), holiday closure and a hybrid, flexible work environment that allows you time to recharge and provides you with work-life integration. 
Great benefits, pension plan and amazing perks

Our Hiring guidelines: 

IGNITE is committed to a workforce that reflects the diversity of our students and our city. We actively seek qualified individuals with demonstrated skill and knowledge to deal with all aspects of diversity in a post-secondary environment.  We encourage applications from candidates of all gender identities, sexual orientations, races, ethnicities, abilities, and backgrounds. 

IGNITE is committed to accommodating applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process, in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). IGNITE will work with applicants requesting accommodation at any stage of the hiring process. This document is available in an alternative format upon request to accommodate applicants with disabilities.

Compensation

$100,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Know someone who would be a perfect fit? Let them know!