Careers

Position Summary

The Manager is responsible for oversight of files within the Policy & Issue Management area and works collaboratively with CPMA’s committees and membership, government representatives, allied stakeholders and partners, and other Association staff. The Manager will deliver the association’s Label Review Service for CPMA members and will engage with government officials in advocating for the needs of the fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain related to labelling and other files as assigned.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills, analysis and initiative in problem solving. Applicants should have strong abilities in work planning, as well as the ability to work independently while thriving in a collaborative environment. The Manager will have an understanding of federal government operations and a demonstrated ability to interact with members, allied stakeholders and government and elected officials.

Position Responsibilities

• Deliver CPMA’s Label Review Service, which provides members with a review of their packaging to support compliance with Canadian regulatory requirements for fresh produce labelling.
• Manage and/or support CPMA efforts on files of impact to the industry, including: labelling, plant health and crop protection, organics, biotechnology, grade standards, and others as assigned.
• Undertake background research, analysis, and industry engagement necessary to develop position and policy statements on issues of impact to CPMA members in files of responsibility, including preparation of CPMA’s response to consultations on government policy and regulatory proposals.
• Develop strategies with the Director, Government Relations for targeted government audiences, and liaise with relevant government departments to address the areas within the Manager’s responsibilities and position CPMA as a trusted advisor and informed partner with government officials and industry colleagues in files of responsibility.
• Represent CPMA on external government, industry and related committees and working groups, as assigned.
• Support CPMA committees, working groups and task forces within the assigned areas of responsibility.
• Work with the marketing and communications staff to develop member communications in areas related to the Manager’s files of responsibility.
• Develop necessary guidance to support member compliance with regulatory changes related to labelling and other assigned file areas and undertake regular review of published website content and member resources to ensure they remain current.
• Attend various industry conventions, events and meetings and make presentations on behalf of the Association on related areas where required.
• Prepare annual and semi-annual reports for the CPMA Board outlining issues of focus and their status.
• Support the Director in the development of budgets for areas of responsibility.
• Support CPMA projects as requested, including the annual CPMA Convention and Trade Show.
• Other duties as assigned.

Languages:

• Fluently bilingual (English and French).

Skills and Capabilities

• University or college degree in related field.
• 1-3 years experience in government relations, public policy, trade association/not-for-profit association or similar.
• Detail oriented with ability to effectively manage multiple tasks in a fast-moving environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communications skills, including writing, editing and tailoring materials for a variety of audiences.
• Understanding of federal government operations and sound political judgement.
• Strong computer and social media literacy, including experience using the Microsoft Office suite.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally, as required.
• Nutrition-related training, agriculture experience and/or background in relevant file areas would be an asset.