FT Program Manager, Government and Stakeholder Relations

Reporting to the Vice President, Marketing and Communication, the Program Manager, Government and Stakeholder Relations is responsible for the management and delivery of stakeholder relations, policy analysis and issues management strategies in support of the corporation’s goals. The incumbent provides consultative support to other leaders in the organization and fosters cooperative relationships with key external stakeholders, including government and industry partners. The position provides daily guidance and management for the implementation of stakeholder relations activities and information sharing among both internal and external audiences. Given the sensitivities inherent in this role, the incumbent will work in consultation with the Communications team.

• Develop, plan and implement stakeholder and government relations strategies that support corporate objectives and initiatives.
• Provide advice to senior leaders on stakeholder relations activities that enhance positive relationships and strengthen understanding of Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries (MBLL) and the liquor, gaming and cannabis industries.
• Evaluate the interests and perspectives of stakeholders to identify issues and impacts, and develop and recommend options, approaches, solutions, and responses.
• Identify opportunities and resolve information gaps, providing insight that fosters understanding and consensus among both external and internal stakeholders.
• Proactively support the corporation’s relationship with the Crown Services Secretariat and with other government contacts, providing oversight for information sharing and stakeholder support, and act as a primary contact with Crown Services, funneling and managing work as necessary.
• Provide consultative support and guidance to internal stakeholders related to government policy, legislative and regulatory frameworks, and other stakeholder perspectives on the provincial, federal and international levels.
• Oversee and manage communication activities in support of government and stakeholder relations, including preparation of briefing materials or discussion papers and facilitation of annual public meetings.
• Manage responses related to escalated stakeholder concerns, ensuring information provided is accurate, appropriate, relevant, and responsive, and presents the organization positively.
• Establish and maintain positive working relationships with all internal stakeholders by effectively communicating and sharing information, knowledge, and expertise.
• Collaborate with internal departmental teams to address stakeholder relations needs and seek methods and tools to improve departmental efficiency and deliverables.
• Manage responses to information access requests under FIPPA (Freedom of Information and Perform Start of Protection of Privacy Act)
• Write, review, edit, and approve various communications materials.
• Ensure activities adhere to all legislative and regulatory requirements.
• Support Legal and Corporate Secretary to ensure impacts of legislative and/or regulatory changes are communicated to internal and external stakeholders.
• Participate on or chair committees and corporate project teams/programs as required.
• Provide input and direction on the annual divisional business plan and budget, and departmental policies and procedures.

• Champion Corporate Responsibility (CR) by integrating CR practices into products, plans and work practices and by assessing the business and customer risks and opportunities associated with gambling, liquor and cannabis products, as relevant.
• Attend and/or facilitate meetings as required.
• Complete required courses and video training.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• A degree in public administration, political science, business or a related field; and a minimum of five to seven years of related management experience, preferably in the public sector. A combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Demonstrated political acumen, adaptability, and issues management expertise to respond to sensitive issues, and a strong understanding of provincial government operations, structure, and processes.
• Excellent critical thinking, analytical, judgement and decision-making skills that support department and organizational goals.
• Experience with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and related procedures would be an asset.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to communicate effectively with staff, clients and stakeholders, and excellent interpersonal skills to build strong working relationships.
• Attention to detail, with demonstrated organizational and time management skills to plan, balance, and manage performance, competing priorities, and workload demands while ensuring departmental standards are met.
• Intermediate skills in Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneDrive, and Teams).
• Additional courses in political science, communications planning/strategy development, organizational dynamics and leadership training would be an asset.
• Have and maintain a valid Manitoba Class 5 drivers’ license and access to a reliable vehicle is an asset.

• Bilingual (French/English) language skills.

Testing may form part of the screening/selection process. Employment Equity will be a factor in the recruitment process. We thank all interested applicants, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.